An extremely old bone spear tip was recently found in Russia. This incredible discovery is now considered the oldest of its type in all of Europe and shows just how skilled Neanderthals really were. This significant discovery, made in 2003 in a cave located in the North Caucasus region, has been dated back to between 80,000 and 70,000 years ago.
The spear tip is roughly 9 centimeters long. Experts think it was carved from the humerus bone of a massive animal, possibly a bison. The research team responsible for the analysis employed advanced techniques including spectroscopy, computed tomography, and various microscopy methods to examine the artifact. The release of their findings unlocks amazing specifics about the weapon. They found spots of red-brown discoloration at the tip, a sign of heat stress. In addition, microscopic images display ground surfaces on the spear’s point that can indicate heavy usage.
One of the oldest artifacts ever discovered in Lubbock, such a magnificent find, the excavation site produced a spectacular spear tip. It revealed bones from dozens of other animals, as well as evidence of ancient campfires, providing a fascinating window into Neanderthal life. These findings combined put a stake in the heart of past theories claiming that Neanderthals had not advanced beyond the use of stone tools.
The spear tip is particularly historically important. It features residue from bitumen, which means that its makers might have interacted with it in fascinating ways hunter or hunted. The analysis conducted by the research team underlines the sophistication of Neanderthal craftsmanship, suggesting they were capable of more complex tool-making than previously recognized.
The research describing these results has just been published in the Journal of Archaeological Science. Included in it are all kinds of valuable insights that contribute to our ongoing discussions about Neanderthal innovation, survival strategy and adaptation.