Rare Obsidian Artifact Uncovered in Edmonton Yard
An Edmonton couple unearthed a rare obsidian artifact in their front yard, catching the attention of archaeologists. The 4.6-pound chunk of obsidian core, a type of volcanic glass, is a significant find in a region without volcanoes. The artifact, believed to have been reshaped by pre-contact people, could offer insights into ancient trade networks and material preferences. The discovery has reignited the homeowner’s passion for archaeology and prompted further research by the Royal Alberta Museum.
Early Easter Island settlers had contact with South Americans, new plant study finds
A new study finds evidence that the earliest settlers of Easter Island had contact with people from South America as early as 1,000 years ago. Starch grains on obsidian blades at the archaeological site of Anakena suggest a fusion cuisine of Polynesian and South American plants. This sheds light on the early interactions and connections between the indigenous people of Rapa Nui and South Americans.