Lithics 21

Discusses the terminology used in the study of lithics, and suggests that there is no general consensus on key concepts, or on a common archaeological language. Considers the definition of the main artefact categories (debitage, cores, tools); the definition of the main debitage categories (chips flakes, etc); the definition of descriptive elements applied in the classification of tools and cores; and a general typology of cores and tools.

Suggests that Brixham Cave, Devon (excavated from 1858--59) was the catalyst which led to the general acceptance of the antiquity of humanity. Attempts to discover what was significant about the site that differed from all other previous cave excavations. Discusses the artefacts and faunal remains from the site.

Comments on Rainbow Bar, an area of Palaeolithic finds in the tidal zone near Hill Head, Hampshire.

Re-assesses the role of quartzitic rocks in the British Palaeolithic based on the recent recovery of fifteen Lower Palaeolithic quartzite artefacts from a lost river in Norfolk, together with nearly 300 from the Upper Thames. It is suggested that collectors have largely overlooked quartzitic stones, which has led to this unexpected increase in the number of finds.