Rock crystal scraper: 45,000-year-old Neanderthal tool that shows they had an 'eye for beauty of form and color'

A 45,000 to 80,000 year-old rock crystal scraper, discovered in southwestern France's Dordogne region, demonstrates Neanderthals' appreciation for aesthetics and quality of materials used. Unearthed in 1924 by the American School of Prehistoric Research, the translucent quartz tool was the first of its kind found among Neanderthal artifacts, challenging prevailing views of Neanderthals as unintelligent brutes.

This cache of seven microcrystalline quartz tools was likely crafted on-site at the Abri Des Merveilles cave, with additional quartz chips indicating the creation process. The tool, preserved in the National Archaeological Museum, helps reshape our understanding of Neanderthals' artistic abilities and discernment of beauty.