Neolithic engraved obsidian arrowheads in Turkey

Archaeologists at the Neolithic settlement of Tepecik-Çiftlik in Cappadocia, Turkey, have discovered 11 obsidian arrowheads featuring deliberate, unexplained engravings. Dating back approximately 9,000 years, these artifacts increase the known collection of marked points in central Anatolia to between 43 and 54 pieces.

The arrowheads were crafted from local volcanic glass sourced from nearby volcanoes. While the physical shapes resemble standard tools of the period, each piece contains unique incisions ranging from simple lines to complex designs like V-shapes and interconnected squares.

Microscopic analysis has confirmed that the markings were intentional rather than accidental damage from the knapping process, as they were made using flint—a material relatively rare in the settlement's debris. Researchers noted that the practice of marking these tools appears unique to Central Anatolia. While the exact cultural meaning remains an unsolved enigma, experts suggest the engravings may have served to identify equipment, signify social status, or act as symbolic decorations.