Institute for Biodiversity Science and Sustainability

CAS Anthropology Collections Database


Catalog Number CAS 2003-0004-0001   CAS 2003-0004-0001; Charmstone
Category Tools & Implements
Object Name Charmstone
Culture Ohlone
Global Region North America
Country USA
State/Prov./Dist. California
County Alameda
Other Geographic Data Oakland area, probably
Maker's Name Unknown
Date of Manufacture unknown
Collection Name N/A
Materials Stone
Description Plumb bob-shaped charmstone or possible net weight, pecked and ground to overall shape with its point of maximum diameter slightly below the mid-section; Shorter distal end tapers to a short round knob, while the more elongated proximal end tapers to a truncated end, over which a shallow groove is carved and extends down the sides to a biconically drilled hole; Both the hole and groove probably served to secure the stone to a string or net; Exterior of stone is ground smooth and polished; Color is mottled dark gray to brown.
Dimensions (cm) Max Diam = 3.9, Length = 8.1