Late Mesolithic to early Neolithic flint single-platform blade core with cortex present. From Silkstead, Otterbourne, Hampshire.

Flint core

Late Mesolithic or Early Neolithic

Surface find collected from Silkstead, Otterbourne, Hampshire

This flint core is a by-product of the manufacturing of flint tools. The core was shaped from a flint nodule which would have been found on the surface of the soil. Flint flakes and blades were then struck from the core using stone and antler hammers. The flakes and blades would have been worked to produce tools such as knives and scrapers. After use the flint core would have been discarded as it was no longer useful. The white patination and iron spots would have occured due to chemical weathering in the soil after the flint was discarded.