Mid-Holocene geochronology, palaeoenvironment, and occupational dynamics at Quebrada de Amaicha, Tucumán, Argentina

CARLOS BAIED Y CAROLINA SOMONTE

QUATERNARY INTERNATIONAL

Elsevier

Año: 2013 vol. 299 p. 80 - 89

1040-6182

This paper focuses on three interconnected issues: lithic technology, geochronology and climate change both based on rock-varnish proxies, and artifact reclamation processes. Our ongoing research along the western the semiarid slope of Cumbres Calchaquies-Aconquija ranges and centered in the Amaicha del Valle archaeological locality has focused on lithic surface scatters that. These are the product of multiple behavioral events, an accretion phenomena, a palimpsest, areas that are repetitively visited, used, and occupied over the long run for procurement of lithic raw material, manufacture of a diverse type of artifacts, and carry out task specific activities. Research results suggest: First, and based on typological analysis of lithic surface scatters, a multi-component occupation that may have included site-specific activities.  Second, based on rock-varnish micro-laminations (VML) studies, a correlation-dating technique that proved to be a reliable time-clock for establishing chronological control, we now know that human occupation was already in place prior to 6500 - 5900 years BP.  Further, rock-varnish carries a past climate signal, one that provided for eight regional wet events for the last 7000 years, four of which are mid-Holocene specific. Third, rock-varnish differential formation on rocks and artifacts provide for additional insights into the occupational dynamics and functionality of sites.