A Study of the Flaked-Stone Economy at Epiclassic period (ca. 600-900 CE) Los Mogotes

This study examines the flaked-stone economy at the Epiclassic site of Los Mogotes, located north of the Basin of Mexico in central Mexico. Chert and obsidian artifacts were classified based on form and material in order to examine the nature of the regional lithic economy during this time. The findings suggest that the inhabitants of Los Mogotes were not primary producers of obsidian tools but were dependent on long-distance exchange for already manufactured goods. This pattern contrasts with evidence of primary production using more locally available chert. Despite being closer to high quality obsidian sources in Pachuca, Hidalgo, Los Mogotes relied on gray obsidian from sources located farther away (such as Ucareo, Michoacan). These findings conform to broader regional trends observed at contemporaneous sites during this time. Our interpretations focus on how the broader political economy shaped access to resources and the institutions necessary for their distribution.