Bone toggle

DERSB : 3682

Bone toggle found at Thirst House Cave, Deepdale. People carved tools and ornaments from materials that were easily available, such as antler and bone. These materials survive well in the limestone soil of the White Peak. Certain bones were selected for different purposes. Carved and polished bone made smooth needles and pins, as well as toggles and buttons to fasten clothing. Bone was still used even after metalworking skills had improved. It can be difficult to date bone objects just by their shape and style. Most of the ones on display were found in caves that hold both prehistoric and Roman material, so they are between 3,000 and 1,500 years old.