Spätmesolithischer Bergkristallabbau auf 2800 m Höhe nahe der Fuorcla da Strem Sut (Kt. Uri / Graubünden / CH)

Abstract

Late Mesolithic Rock Crystal Mining 2800 m Above Sea Level near Fuorcla da Strem Sut (Kt. Uri / Graubünden / CH)

In the region of the Swiss central Alps sites have been repeatedly discovered where lithic material testified to prehistoric mining of local rock crystal. Primary mining sites of this mineral had been previously unknown in the central Alps of Prehistory. In autumn 2013 the amateur geologist H. Infanger found a joint in the area of Fuorcla da Strem Sut (2831 m a. s. l.) with notably rich rock crystals of high quality. Until recently the site had been covered by glaciers. While thawing and clearing the joint the amateur geologist unearthed two antler artefacts and wooden fragments from the early 6th millennium BC. Especially when considering the location of the finds this indicates a mining site of rock crystal already used in the late Mesolithic period. The objects are currently the oldest artefacts in the Alps preserved in the ice.