piikivi

Piikivi is a Finnish term that translates to "flint" or "chert" in English. It refers to a hard, fine-grained sedimentary rock that is a form of chert, composed of microcrystalline or cryptocrystalline quartz. Piikivi is known for its conchoidal fracture, meaning it breaks with smooth, curved surfaces, which made it historically valuable for toolmaking. Ancient peoples utilized piikivi extensively for crafting arrowheads, knives, scrapers, and other implements due to its sharpness and durability. Its presence in archaeological sites provides important clues about early human technology and migration patterns. Piikivi can be found in various colors, including gray, black, brown, and red, often depending on the presence of impurities. In Finland, deposits of piikivi have been found in several regions, and its extraction and use date back to the Stone Age. Beyond its prehistoric significance, piikivi has also been used in more recent times for decorative purposes and in some industrial applications, though its primary recognition remains tied to its historical role in early tool technology.