Abstract

Obsidian from the Chait & eacute;n volcano has been a central piece of evidence in the maritime archaeology of the northern archipelagos of Western Patagonia. This paper presents an initial characterization of the source in terms of its availability, variability, accessibility, and presentation. A review of published information is provided, incorporating new data from lithic assemblages from two sites in the Reloncavi Sound and the Greater Island of Chilo & eacute;. Variations in management and the volume of obsidian circulation throughout the Holocene are proposed, which transitioned from its widespread use to curated strategies specialized in bifacial production. The continuity in the use of the source is interpreted as evidence of historical continuity, and working hypotheses are proposed concerning possible maritime circulation routes.