Lithic Analysis of Stone Artifacts from Northeast Thailand

Our study examines 97 artifacts from the archaeological excavations at the prehistoric site of Phu Lon. This site is a copper mining and production site located along the Mekong River in northeast Thailand. Phu Lon is actually a complex of related sites where a variety of activities occurred. Radio-carbon dating suggests early occupation dates of 1750 to 1425 B.C.E. and shows that most of the activity at the site occurs during the first millennium B.C.E. The set of artifacts consists of stone axes and adzes, stone bracelets, and other small finds. Through careful examination of the data, we are broadening our understanding of how these artifacts were utilized and manufactured. Our objectives include the determination of form and function of each artifact, utilization methods and patterning, and spatial distribution of artifacts throughout the site. This research seeks to develop an understanding of the technological sophistication of the groups that occupied Phu Lon in prehistory, as well as serving as a baseline for future lithic studies in the region