Lithics Data Quantification
William James Stemp · The Encyclopedia of Archaeological Sciences · 2018
Archaeologists use numerous methods to quantify the data from the analyses of lithic artifacts. In most cases, quantification addresses research questions concerning stone tool form and function. Data derived from tool metrics and morphology are used to interpret lithic typologies, reduction sequences, and retouch invasiveness, and create virtual copies of lithic artifacts for both study and display purposes. Quantification is also applied to lithic microwear and residue analyses to determine tool function based on the mathematical characterization of edge and surface structure (roughness/texture) and the chemical/elemental analysis of residues on stone tools.