Why have humans collected crystals for 780,000 years? Chimpanzees may hold the answer
Archaeologists have discovered that early human relatives collected crystals 780,000 years ago, despite them having no functional use. A new study suggests that chimpanzees share this attraction, indicating that the behavior may have deep evolutionary roots.
Why it matters
Understanding the evolutionary origins of human behavior provides insight into the development of aesthetic and symbolic thought.
Archaeologists have uncovered crystals at numerous sites containing Homo remains, suggesting that early human relatives deliberately collected these unusual stones as far back as 780,000 years ago. What makes this behavior so intriguing is that the crystals were not used as tools, weapons, or jewelry. So why were they considered worth keeping?
The article presents scientific research findings without ideological framing.
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