Lithic variability and raw material exploitation strategies at Shuidonggou locality 12, China: a quantitative approach

Abstract Microblade technology constituted an important element of the lithic assemblages in Northeast Asia during the late Pleistocene. Traditional typological approaches to microblade cores lack objectivity and methodological consistency, which limit cross‐site comparisons and in‐depth discussions of human behaviour. This study employs a quantitative analysis on microblade cores from Shuidonggou locality 12 (SDG12) to examine core morphology, reduction intensity and scar patterns. The findings reveal that while prehistoric knappers at SDG12 applied similar technological procedures, they modified certain steps to accommodate raw material properties. This research underscores the advantages of quantitative methods for objectively assessing the variability of microblade technology.