Ancient Clovis Like Stone Tool Discovery: Possible Native American Artifact Found in Southeast Denver’s Rocky Mountain Foothills - Archaeological Analysis and Documentation

Prehistoric Native American artifact found in Colorado

This tool shows several characteristics consistent with human modification and prehistoric Native American artifacts found in Colorado. Let me analyze the specific features:

Physical Characteristics

The specimen measures approximately 6 x 4 x 3 inches and appears to be made from a reddish-brown sedimentary stone, likely sourced locally in the Denver area. The coloring and material are consistent with stones commonly used by ancient Colorado inhabitants.

Manufacturing Evidence

The object shows signs of intentional shaping and modification:

• Distinct flaking patterns along the edges suggesting deliberate tool manufacture
• A tapered end that appears worked to form a point or blade-like edge
• Smooth worn surfaces indicating possible handling and use over time

Tool Comparison

The artifact's shape and size is consistent with known prehistoric tools from Colorado:

• The elongated form with a worked edge resembles butchering or cutting implements found in Clovis-era caches

Similar tools have been documented at sites along Colorado's Front Range, used for processing large game animals like camels and horses during the Pleistocene period

Side view of prehistoric stone tool 

showing worked edges

Artistic Elements

The specimen displays characteristics common to portable rock art (PRA):

• Natural contours appear to have been enhanced to create profiles when viewed from different angles
• Surface textures show possible intentional modification to create sculptural effects
• The overall shape suggests intentional crafting to achieve a specific form rather than random breakage

Regional Context

The location where this was found is significant:

• The Denver area has documented evidence of human habitation dating back over 13,000 years
• Multiple Clovis and Folsom period sites have been discovered along Colorado's Front Range
• The area was known for stone tool manufacturing, with materials often sourced from various locations across the region

This specimen appears to be a prehistoric artifact which could represent an important addition to our understanding of ancient tool-making traditions in the Colorado region.

Sources

13,000-year-old stone tool cache set for exhibit at CU-Boulder

Magic Mountain Community Archaeology Project - Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Prehistoric Stone Quarrying in Colorado - Colorado Encyclopedia

Identifying the Value of Different Native American Artifacts - Heartland Artifacts

Artifact Identification - Peach State Archaeological Society

CU Museum of Natural History unveils ancient stone tools

The Significance of Native American Stone Tools and Weapons - Heartland Artifacts

Unearthed: Ancient Life in the Boulder Valley - CU Museum of Natural History