Artifact of the Week: Donut Stones

A very unique object found at La Jolla Tradition sites is donut stones.  These are finely crafted tools that must have required hours of work.

The exact use of donut stones is unknown. It is thought that these were used as net sinkers or digging stick weights. The weight would allow the stick to penetrate more easily and go further into the soil.

These artifacts are found along the California coast and islands from San Diego to Santa Barbara. This may indicate trade, cultural similarities, or migration.

Date: La Jolla Tradition (7,500 ya – 3,000 ya)
Material Class: Lithics

Want to learn more? Visit the exhibit By Land and By Sea currently on view at the Center.