New Directions in Mediterranean Obsidian Studies

A review of recent research on obsidian in the Mediterranean indicates not only that provenance studies are alive and well, but that new developments have combined to change the direction and focus of modern research. The characterization of the Sardinian sources, the application of minimally destructive and inexpensive analytical techniques, the analysis of complete or large parts of assemblages, and the integration of provenance data with reduction technology and use wear traces have provided significant insights into obsidian exploitation during the Neolithic of the western Mediterranean.