Archaeology Terms

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Catlinite/Pipestone

Catlinite artifacts

Referred to as pipestone or catlinite, this soft red stone was carved and ground into pipes and other ornamental objects in late prehistoric and historic times. The largest deposit of this raw material, and its most common source, is Pipestone National Monument in southwestern Minnesota.  However, outcrops and mine sites are also known in northwestern Wisconsin.

Link to information about working catlinite.

Link to information about Pipestone National Monument.