Bannerstone - Williamson, Illinois

Research replica • National Museum of the American Indian • 31 g, 7.5 cm

Black composite replica of the original rose quartz Smithsonian bannerstone.

This is a precise replica of the famous Smithsonian rose quartz bannerstone. The original, dated to between 3000 and 1000 BC, was found in Williamson County, Illinois. The National Museum of the American Indian acquired it in 1926.

This is a precise replica of the famous Smithsonian rose quartz bannerstone. The original, dated to between 3000 and 1000 BC, was found in Williamson County, Illinois. The National Museum of the American Indian acquired it in 1926.

This replica is dimensionally accurate to within 0.1 mm, making it suitable for experimentation as to the bannerstone's function and purpose, a topic debated by archaeologists.

This is made from Prusament, an extremely hard composite plastic made in the Czech Republic. Unlike common plastics like ABS or nylon, this material has absolutely no flex. This makes it identical in hardness to the original stone, which is critical for some research purposes.

Given the high cost of authentic bannerstones, this replica allows for indiscriminate experimentation and handling by students without fear of costly damage to authentic specimens.

Made in the USA.

Purchase: No fees kenneth.jones@gmail.com | eBay | Etsy

Angled view of the black bannerstone replica showcasing its fluted surface. Top-down perspective revealing the central cylindrical bore hole characteristic. Archival catalog record from the National Museum of the American Indian detailing the original artifact. Direct frontal view of the black replica demonstrating its symmetrical, pinched bi-lobed shape. Museum exhibition graphic detailing the history and function of the Archaic rose quartz bannerstone. Profile view of the replica emphasizing the central longitudinal drilling axis used for mounting. Narrow edge profile demonstrating the precise thinness of the hard composite plastic replica. Angled profile view of the replica illustrating its curved lateral edges and smooth surface finish. Replica displayed alongside a scale and ruler documenting its 31-gram weight and 7.5-centimeter length.