Obsidian Flaking

[OntarioArch]

None of the lithic materials we find here in the Northeast (Onondaga Chert, Jasper, Argillite, ) can compare to the showy gloss of obsidian artifacts. What handsome flake scars! Too bad this 'cigar box find' has a broken base.

 

[ToddsPoint]

Obsidian is nice looking but so fragile for tools. Easy to make but easy to break. It’s also much more dangerous to quarry. I know of several severe injuries to modern knappers quarrying at Burns OR. I’m sure there was a long list of Indian injuries and even fatalities during 12,000 yrs of use by the Indians.

 

[opalboy]

You won’t know you’re cut, until you see the trail of blood!

 

[russau]

Thanks for the warning ! I've got plenty enough of scares and don't need any more than that !

 

[Older The Better]

Obsidian does look great, I wish it showed up in the dirt around here

 

[DizzyDigger]

Obsidian can be unbelievably sharp, as it is often used as a scalpel
for eye surgery.

 

[russau]

If I ever came across a piece of Obsidian and having a good supply of band aids , I'd like to try Knapping a point! BUT until then I'm happy making small gravel out of what I have !