Researchers have analyzed a collection of donut-shaped, perforated stones an archaeological site dating back about 12,000 years.
Archaeologists may have uncovered one of the earliest examples of rotational tools, a discovery that could shed light on the origins of wheel-like devices in human history.
They propose that these stones, likely used as spindle whorls, represent an early form of rotational technology that could have influenced the development of later inventions, including the potter’s wheel and the cart wheel.These perforated stones resemble spindle whorls — weighted, round objects traditionally attached to a spindle stick. When connected, they form a rudimentary wheel-and-axle mechanism that can spin fibers like wool or flax into yarn more efficiently.
Using modern digital tools, the researchers extensively examined more than 100 limestone pebbles recovered from the site. By creating 3-D digital models of the stones and their central perforations, they identified a consistent, circular shape and symmetrical perforation across the artifacts.
Archaeology Bronze Age Neolithic Period Spindle Whorls Wheel
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