One of the main aims of the Cutting Edge project is to provide scholars and interested individuals access to data relating to prehistoric objects from our collections.  This project has allowed me to not only analyse the fantastic objects that are permanently on display in the Great North Museum: Hancock, but also have a look through the vast collections we keep stored away.  These hidden collections are not often seen by the public and so our team have been determined to include as many of these objects as possible within the project.  As an archaeologist, I naturally think that all of our objects are interesting, but occasionally during my searches I have uncovered some truly beautiful objects.  This is one of my favourites:

                         Jade adze blade               Laing Art Gallery, TWCMS : H6501 

 An adze is a tool used for smoothing or carving out wood and is among the earliest type of stone tool identified in the archaeological record.  This adze has been made out of jade.  It’s highly polished and the colours within the stone are beautiful- vibrant shades of green with creamy brown streaks and swirls.

 While prehistoric archaeology may initially conjure up the image of piles of flintwork, this project has uncovered some hidden gems that aren’t normally seen by many people.  The Cutting Edge will make sure a much wider audience can appreciate these fantastic objects.