What does the retouch process involve in stone tool technology?

The retouch process in stone tool technology specifically involves the removal of small flakes from a larger flake or stone tool. This technique is essential for sharpening the tool or altering its shape to enhance functionality. By carefully striking the edge of the tool, artisans can refine the cutting surface, making it more effective for tasks such as hunting, butchering, or crafting.

This process is fundamental within the broader context of lithic technology, as it highlights the skill involved in maintaining and improving tools over time. The ability to reshape tools rather than creating new ones from raw materials demonstrates the ingenuity and resourcefulness of early human populations in utilizing available resources to meet their needs. The retouch process underlines the iterative nature of tool use and production in prehistoric societies.