Researchers studying 12,000-year-old perforated stones found in the Nahal Ein-Gev II site in Israel believe that these stones could be evidence of early adoption of spinning using the ‘spindle and whorl’ device. A total of 113 perforated stones were found at the site, with different levels of completion. Further analysis determined that these stones were most likely spindle whorls based on their shape, material, and size of the holes. High-resolution 3D models were used to study the stones in more detail, revealing specific morphological parameters that indicated standard measures such as width/length ratio and the placement of perforations. Feasibility tests were also conducted to test the functionality of the stones as ancient spindle whorls, with positive results.
Researchers initially speculated that the perforated stones could be related to fishing, but ultimately determined that they were most likely spindle whorls used for spinning fibers. Traditional craft-making expert Yonit Kristal was enlisted to conduct a feasibility test to test the functionality of the stones, with successful results in spinning both wool and flax. The authors of the study noted that their theory could be strengthened by use wear analysis, but this method was beyond the scope of the research. The discovery of these perforated stones as spindle whorls is seen as significant in understanding the technological innovations that played a role in the Neolithization processes of the Southern Levant.
The 3D modeling utilized in this study helped to reveal specific morphological parameters of the perforated stones, indicating standard measures and characteristics that pointed to their functionality as spindle whorls. Although the collection of stones appeared variable to the naked eye, the 3D analysis demonstrated underlying standard measures that were consistent across the stones. The researchers also conducted a feasibility test to ascertain the practicality of the stones as spinning devices, with successful results in spinning fibers using replicas of the stones. Yashuv emphasized that this discovery represents more than just a race to claim the earliest spindle whorl, as it provides insight into the technological developments that occurred during the Neolithic period.
The authors of the study highlighted the importance of the perforated stones as early examples of rotational technologies that laid the mechanical principle of the wheel and axle. Through a multistep process of analysis and testing, the researchers concluded that these stones were likely used as spindle whorls for spinning fibers. This discovery sheds light on the technological innovations that were occurring during the Neolithization processes in the Southern Levant region. Yashuv emphasized that while the discovery of these stones as spindle whorls is significant in itself, the broader implications lie in understanding the cumulative evolutionary trend of rotational technologies during this time period.
Overall, the research on the 12,000-year-old perforated stones found in Nahal Ein-Gev II in Israel has provided valuable insights into the early adoption of spinning technologies using the ‘spindle and whorl’ device. The use of high-resolution 3D modeling and feasibility testing helped to confirm the functionality of the stones as spindle whorls, shedding new light on the technological innovations of the Neolithic period in the Southern Levant. This discovery not only contributes to our understanding of ancient spinning practices but also highlights the role of technological advancements in the Neolithization processes of the region. By placing these stones within a broader evolutionary trend of rotational technologies, researchers have been able to provide a more comprehensive picture of the innovations that took place during this period.
