The quality and value in Neolithic Europe : an alternative view on obsidian artifacts

In current studies, obsidian is considered both as a highly valuable commodity, of exotic origin, and in other cases as a raw material with practical use only. The answer to the problem is not an easy one, since the basic qualities of obsidian are also found in many other raw materials, often easily accessible from prehistoric settlements. In this assessment of the subject of distribution and the chronology of obsidian finds I have tried to view obsidian exclusively on the basis of its chronological and cultural context. Such methodological premise leads to a conclusion that the role, importance and value of obsidian in the life of prehistoric communities can be best understood during the period of neolithization of the European continent and later on, when obsidian becomes an integral part of the complex changes in the perception and the use of the environment.