National Science Week: The Kimberly point
Learn about how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have used glass to make cutting tools for thousands of years.
The theme for National Science Week 2022 is Glass: more than meets the eye.
The theme coincides with 2022 being the United Nations’ International Year of Glass and celebrates the crucial role this material plays in our lives.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have used natural forms of glass to make cutting tools for thousands of years.
They used these tools for a variety of tasks, including preparing food, creating clothing, warfare and ceremonial purposes.
The National Museum of Australia cares for a collection of tools and trade items from north-west Australia, including Kimberley points.
‘Points’ were traditionally made from stone, used for the tips of spears and as exchange items. After European settlement, First Nations people were quick to make use of new materials such as glass and ceramics.
The combination of skilled and intricate workmanship and new materials of varying colours, textures and translucencies produced spearheads of great beauty.
Images used in this animation are courtesy of the National Museum of Australia.
Find out more
To find out more about Kimberly points visit https://www.nma.gov.au/explore/features/grigoryan-brothers-this-is-us/concert-program/brown-bottle-glass-kimberley-point
Find out more about National Science Week including events visit https://www.scienceweek.net.au/