Bone & Shell Tools

Although they don't get as much attention as lithics or even metal tools, tools made from bone and shell are important parts of archaeological assemblages in many parts of the world. This video provides a very general introduction to some of the more common types of bone and shell tools, bone musical instruments, and items that incorporate bone, shell or ivory as decoration. it also has a brief demonstration of piercing a bivalve shell, and (unsuccessful) attempts at making a shell fishhook.

You may also be interested in the following on making bone tools:
   • Making Primitive BONE NEEDLES  
and (unfortunately, no sound):
   • Working Bone to Make Weapons and Tools  


and a recent Open Access article on shell beads:
https://link.springer.com/article/10....

My book, The Archaeologist's Laboratory:
https://link.springer.com/book/10.100...

#archaeology #thearchaeologistslaboratory #bonetools #shelltools #archaeologicalmusic