The Emergence of Metal Use in Greek Eastern Macedonia During the Neolithic Period (Late 6th–5th Millennia BC)

Copper, gold, and silver artefacts, together with evidence of metallurgical activities, have been retrieved from Late Neolithic strata in several settlements in Greek Eastern Macedonia. Recent excavations at Dikili Tash revealed that gold was further used in paints for the decoration of pottery. It appears that the area’s inhabitants had a great familiarity with different metals and the distinct stages of the production-elaboration processes, including those interfering with other chaînes opératoires. Considering also the results from geological research, we propose a reflection on the socio-economic role of metal production and consumption for these societies, in their broader Balkan context.