Debitage

Debitage refers to the byproducts or waste material produced during the manufacturing of stone tools. When early humans shaped stones to create tools like blades or scrapers, they would chip away small pieces from the core stone. These discarded fragments, called debitage, help archaeologists understand the techniques and methods used in toolmaking. Analyzing debitage provides insights into the skills, technology, and behaviors of ancient toolmakers, offering a window into past human activity and technological development.