Arrowhead type

Adams Diamond Point

Adams Diamond1,700 - 900 B.P.Transitional Archaic to Preclassic

2 reference photos

Key facts

Age
1,700 - 900 B.P.
Cultural period
Transitional Archaic to Preclassic
Culture
Llano Grande culture
Size
Small to Medium
Shape
Contracting Stem to Ovoid
Material
Utilized
Glacial period
Roman Warm to Medieval Warm

More from the Archaic, Preclassic and Classic periods

Description

This triangular point exhibits a distinctive morphology, characterized by a contracting stem and an elliptical profile. The blade displays a pronounced excurvate curvature, with beveling evident on both edges of each face. The shoulders are variably defined, ranging from subtle to pronounced, and are positioned at an upward inclination. The stem tapers inward, featuring excurvate edges that converge at a narrow, straight base. The flaking pattern on this point is random, lacking a discernible order or sequence.

Size

The dimensions of these arrowheads are characterized by a length range of 33 to 47 millimeters, with a mean length of 41 millimeters. The blade width varies between 13 and 25 millimeters, averaging 21 millimeters. In terms of thickness, the measurements fall within a range of 6 to 8 millimeters, with an average thickness of 8 millimeters, as determined from a limited dataset.

Distribution

These artifacts are linked to the Llano Grande tradition of Sonora, Chihuahua, Sinloa, Nayarit, Jalisco, and Zacatecas.

Mainly found in

Additional information

In contrast to other notable projectile points, such as the San Miguel Diamond and the Trujillo Diamond, the Adams Diamond exhibits a distinctive morphology characterized by a longer and narrower blade. This unique characteristic was first observed by Spence in 1971, highlighting the Adams Diamond's singular profile within the context of Native American arrowhead typology. The elongated and slender shape of the Adams Diamond blade sets it apart from its counterparts, underscoring the diversity of designs and forms present in the archaeological record of Native American weaponry.

Identified by

Named by
Michael W. Spence
Year
1971

Similar types

Types that are easy to confuse with the Adams Diamond point.

Other types in this cluster

  • Innes

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