Scientists have used analysis of the magnetic properties of obsidian artifacts to trace the dynamics of trade and social networks during the decline of the Akkadian Empire. The work was published in the Journal of Archaeological Science , and its summary is provided by NatureNews.

Scientists analyzed 97 obsidian artifacts found at the Tell Mozan site in Syria, where the ruins of the city of Urkesh are preserved. Their dating spanned the period from the founding of the Akkadian Empire to several centuries after its fall. Thanks to the analysis of the magnetic properties of the found obsidian fragments, scientists were able to establish from which deposits they were extracted.

It turned out that before 2200 BC, obsidian was delivered to Urkesh from six quarries located at a considerable distance from the city itself. They were located to the northeast in the area of Lake Van. However, after 2200, the inhabitants of Urkesh had to be content with local sources of stone - all found products came from only two local quarries.

According to scientists, the findings indicate a decline in trade relations that accompanied the collapse of the empire. Over time, the number of obsidian sources in Urkesh increased, but they were already different.

Obsidian or volcanic glass is silicon oxide with additives of magnesium and iron oxide. Like glass, it has a sharp edge when chipped, which is why it was widely used in the manufacture of stone tools. In addition, it was used to make jewelry.

The state of Akkad appeared in the interfluve as a result of the aggressive campaigns of Sargon the Ancient in the 24th century BC. It existed until 2137 BC, when the capital of Akkad was destroyed by the Gutians. The destruction was preceded by a long crisis, among the causes of which are drought and a crisis of governance.

Obsidian helped study the crisis of the ancient empire