Catlinite

Catlinite, also known as pipestone, is a type of red-brown, soft, fine-grained argillite that is primarily used for carving pipes and other ceremonial objects by Indigenous peoples of North America, particularly those of the Plains. It is found in limited deposits, most famously at Pipestone National Monument in Minnesota. The material is prized for its ease of carving and its symbolic significance.

The term "catlinite" was coined by George Catlin, an American artist and advocate for Native American culture, who extensively documented and collected Native American artifacts in the 19th century. He described the material and its use in his writings, bringing it to wider public attention. However, the Indigenous peoples who have used this material for millennia consider it sacred and have their own names for it.

The quarrying of catlinite is a culturally significant practice. Access to the quarries is typically restricted and governed by traditional protocols. The material is carefully extracted, transported, and then shaped by skilled artisans. The resulting pipes, often elaborately decorated, are used in sacred ceremonies and are considered powerful spiritual tools. The association of catlinite with these spiritual practices makes it more than just a carving medium; it is a link to ancestral traditions and beliefs.