Digital Image Analysis and Use-Wear Accrual as a Function of Raw Material: An Example from Northwestern New Mexico

Abstract

The influence of raw material properties on rates of use-related wear accrual has often been acknowledged, but rarely assessed quantitatively. This paper offers such quantification regarding three varieties of chert and one of silicified wood exploited during the occupation of the Late Archaic FA2–13 site in northwestern New Mexico. The results show significant differences between rates of wear accrual among these four materials. Therefore, caution is necessary when making assertions regarding tool function and use intensity on the basis of wear extent alone. This study also has implications for assessing use-related reduction of both short- and long-term use implements.