A cortical spall is a term from lithic technology and archaeology referring to a flake or fragment struck from the cortex (outer weathered surface) of a stone core during tool-making. It is an important byproduct in the study of stone tool production, as it helps archaeologists reconstruct reduction sequences and raw material use.
🌍 Definition
- Cortical Spall: A small flake or chip removed from the cortex (the rough, outer rind of a stone nodule).
- Cortex: The weathered, outer surface of raw stone material, often chalky or rough compared to the fresh interior.
- Spall: A fragment detached by percussion or pressure.
🔑 Characteristics
- Surface: Retains cortex on one or more faces.
- Size: Usually small, irregular flakes compared to larger prepared flakes.
- Production Stage: Common in the early stages of core reduction, when toolmakers remove cortex to expose fresh stone.
- Diagnostic Value: Presence of cortical spalls indicates initial preparation of raw material.
📚 Archaeological Significance
- Reduction Sequence Analysis: Cortical spalls help identify early stages of tool production.
- Raw Material Procurement: Show how toolmakers processed nodules or cobbles to access workable stone.
- Site Activity: Concentrations of cortical spalls at archaeological sites suggest areas of initial core preparation.
- Technological Insight: Distinguishes between early waste flakes and later, more standardized tool blanks.
🛠 Examples
- Oldowan Assemblages: Cortical spalls appear as early flakes struck to open cobbles for tool production.
- Acheulean Sites: Large handaxe production often begins with removal of cortical spalls to shape the core.
- Experimental Archaeology: Modern knappers produce cortical spalls when testing raw nodules, replicating prehistoric techniques.
✨ Summary
A cortical spall is a small flake removed from the cortex of a stone core during tool-making. It is a key indicator of the initial stages of lithic reduction, helping archaeologists reconstruct technological strategies and raw material use.
