A study in the Journal of Human Evolution reveals that Neanderthals, around 100,000 years ago, transformed narrow-nosed rhinoceros teeth into versatile tools. These hominins coexisted with the species in Europe and took advantage of the hardness of tooth enamel to carve, scrape, and cut. The finding expands knowledge about their adaptability and use of local resources.
Paleolithic technology: how they carved rhinoceros teeth 🔧
Analysis of the fossils shows that Neanderthals selected rhinoceros molars for their thickness and resistance. They used direct percussion with stones to chip the enamel, creating sharp edges similar to flakes. Then they applied fine retouching with bone or wood to define functional edges. This process required control of fracture and knowledge of the raw material, indicating a specialized technique that was passed down among groups.
The rhinoceros didn't lend its teeth, they were taken from it 🦏
Imagine the Neanderthal explaining to his colleagues that he needed a can opener and the only material available was a rhinoceros's dentures. The animal probably didn't agree with the loan. But hey, if they already had to hunt two-ton beasts, at least they made use of the molars. Good thing they didn't invent citrus juicers, because the poor rhinoceros would have ended up as a blender.