Geochemical and Technological Analysis of Lithic Artifacts from Guadalupe, a Cocal Period (AD 1000 to 1530) Site in Northeast Honduras

355 obsidian artifacts from Guadalupe, a Cocal Period (AD 1000 to 1530) site on the north coast of Honduras, were subjected to chemical analysis using a portable X-Ray fluorescence device. I used multivariate analyses to determine the raw material from which each artifact was produced, with a discussion of the implications for contacts with other parts of Mesoamerica. The majority of the assemblage was composed of Güinope obsidian, a low-quality Honduran source frequently found in small cobbles. The organization of production at Guadalupe was assessed through a technological analysis. It was determined that prismatic blades were produced onsite using Güinope obsidian, the first evidence for blade production using this raw material. To make use of small cobbles, initial core shaping was done through cortex-grinding and decortication flakes. The platforms were ground, and flakes were struck using hand-held techniques. In addition, formal tools and complete prismatic blades were imported of La Esperanza (Honduran) and Ixtepeque (Guatemalan) obsidian. A causal industry of Güinope, La Esperanza, and Otumba (Mexican) obsidian is also present. The inhabitants of Guadalupe adapted foreign technologies to local conditions and materials, a common occurrence in Lower Central American archaeology