Believed to be Native American or paleo

Based on the images and your description, the item appears to be a stone or bone artifact, potentially a pendant, gorget, or part of a tool crafted by indigenous people. Below is an analysis of what these items might be, their potential historical context, and an estimation of their value. Identification Physical Description: Your artifact has a smooth, circular design with a central hole and a smaller secondary hole near the edge and it appears to be made from bone, shell, or stone, materials commonly used by Native Americans for tools, adornments, and ceremonial objects. Possible Function: Gorget or Pendant: The artifact may have been worn around the neck as a decorative or ceremonial piece. Gorgets were often crafted from shell or bone by Native American tribes, particularly in the Southeastern United States. Spindle Whorl or Weight: It could have served as a functional item, such as a weight for fishing nets or a component in textile production. Ceremonial Object: The careful crafting and presence of drilled holes suggest it may have held symbolic or ceremonial importance. Historical Context Of Native American Artifacts: Kentucky was home to numerous Native American cultures, including the Mississippian, Adena, and Hopewell cultures, which were known for creating intricately designed artifacts. Shell or bone gorgets were especially common among Mississippian cultures (circa 800–1600 CE), often etched with designs or left plain. If this artifact is prehistoric (Paleo-Indian period, circa 10,000 BCE–8,000 BCE), it could be associated with early hunter-gatherer societies and would have significant archaeological value. Material and Craftsmanship: The craftsmanship (smooth finish, precise drilling) suggests advanced techniques, which were characteristic of later indigenous cultures. The material (possibly shell or bone) and smooth wear suggest prolonged use or ceremonial handling. Valuation Factors Affecting Value: Authenticity: Confirming the artifact is genuinely prehistoric or Native American is crucial. Modern reproductions can mimic this style. Condition: The artifact appears intact, which increases its value. Provenance: Documentation of where it was found and its context (burial site, midden, etc.) is essential for historical significance. Estimated Value: Authentic Native American gorgets or pendants can range in value from $200 to $1,000 or more depending on rarity, age, and cultural significance. If it is determined to be Paleo-Indian, the value could increase significantly due to its rarity and archaeological importance. Next Steps Professional Authentication: Consult with a professional archaeologist or Native American artifact expert to verify the item's origin and age. Avoid cleaning or altering the artifact, as this could reduce its historical value. Legal and Ethical Considerations: Be aware of laws regarding Native American artifacts, such as the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), which governs the ownership and handling of indigenous artifacts found in the United States. Further Research: If possible, have the material tested (e.g., shell, bone, or stone) and look for regional stylistic matches with known artifacts from Kentucky’s indigenous cultures. Let me know if you’d like help connecting with experts or additional resources for artifact authentication and valuation!

This is such an interesting find. Here’s what I have from my lists of Native American resources. I suggest contacting some of them - probably starting with Kentucky resources. Good luck!

Local and Regional Resources

• State Archaeological Offices:

  Reach out to your State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). In Kentucky, this is the Kentucky Heritage Council. They may offer artifact identification services or connect you with local archaeologists.

• Universities and Museums:

  - University Archaeology or Anthropology Departments: Many universities in Kentucky, such as the University of Kentucky or Eastern Kentucky University, have archaeology departments with experts on Native American artifacts.
  - The Kentucky Historical Society: Kentucky Historical Society might help with identification or direct you to professionals.

• Local Archaeological Societies:

  - Kentucky Archaeological Survey: Kentucky Archaeological Survey provides information on artifact authentication or cultural context.

• Museums Specializing in Native American Artifacts:

  The Museum of the Cherokee Indian (near Kentucky) may provide insights into cultural connections. Local museums focusing on regional Native American history often have artifact experts on staff.

Online Resources and Organizations

• The Archaeological Institute of America (AIA):

  Archaeological Institute of America may connect you to professional archaeologists in your area.

• Society for American Archaeology (SAA):

  Society for American Archaeology provides resources and directories for professionals specializing in artifacts like yours.

• Artifact Identification Websites:

  - Projectile Points Database (useful for general Native American tools and artifacts).
  - Mississippian Gorgets and Pendants: Some private websites and forums specialize in cataloging Native American gorgets and related artifacts.

Artifact Auction Houses:

Auction houses often have experts in Native American artifacts and can authenticate or value items:
- Cowan's Auctions (specializes in Native American artifacts).
- Heritage Auctions.

Important Considerations

• Authentication Costs: Professional services often charge a fee for appraisals and authentication.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure your artifact was obtained legally and is not subject to Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) regulations. Avoid selling or transferring the item until you verify its legal and cultural status.

Next Steps

1. Contact Local Experts: Start with museums or archaeological societies in your area for initial identification.
2. Document the Find: Note the exact location, context, and any environmental conditions of where the item was found, as this information is valuable to experts.