The green and the grey: Use of visual attributes in the analysis of New Zealand obsidian artefact assemblages

Phil Moore

doi:10.70460/jpa.v15i1.374

Authors

Phil Moore Peninsula Research https://orcid.org/0009-0001-2782-091X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70460/jpa.v15i1.374

Keywords:

obsidian sourcing, visual attributes, New Zealand

Abstract

There are about 20 known sources of artefact-quality obsidian in New Zealand, of which around half were extensively exploited by pre-European Māori. The visual attributes of the obsidians are described, and a procedure for identifying the original source of artefact material is outlined. Several case studies are presented to illustrate different aspects of the sourcing method, including its reliability. These, along with other studies, indicate that although some obsidian can be attributed to sources with >90% accuracy, the success rate is dependent upon the ability of the analyst and the particular mix of sources represented in any assemblage. Overall, the use of visual attributes combined with limited chemical analysis is considered the most effective means of sourcing larger obsidian artefact assemblages.

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