Fracture markings from flake splitting

When a flake is split longitudinally during its detachment, it can leave several kinds of fracture markings, termed here split marks, on the flake scar. Observations from contemporary knapping are considered together with mechanics and fractography for understanding the formation of the split marks. These markings on a negative flake scar can indicate the splitting of a flake during its detachment. Recognition of flake splitting is of archaeological interest especially for technologies where the flakes were utilized.