US EditionArchaeologists reveal vast Aztec trade networks behind ancient obsidian artifacts
- Tulane University and Proyecto Templo Mayor archaeologists analyzed 788 obsidian artifacts from the Templo Mayor temple in Tenochtitlan in a study published in 2025.
- The research focused on tracing the sources and distribution of obsidian—a naturally occurring volcanic material valued for crafting both functional implements and ceremonial items—within the trade networks of the expanding Mexica Empire.
- Analysis revealed obsidian artifacts sourced from eight or more distinct locations, with close to 90% originating from the highly valued green obsidian of the Sierra de Pachuca range, while the remainder came from regions outside Mexica territory.
- Diego Matadamas-Gomora, the lead author, explained that while green obsidian was favored by the Mexicas, the variety of obsidian types—particularly among non-ritual objects—indicates that tools made from obsidian were brought into the capital through trade networks rather than being directly obtained from specific quarries.
- The findings reveal a complex Mexica economy relying on conquest and active long-distance trade, indicating growing centralization and religious standardization after 1430 CE.
19 Articles
19 Articles
Science Daily
Archaeology & ArtsVast Aztec trade networks behind ancient obsidian artifacts
Researchers analyzed 788 obsidian artifacts from Tenochtitlan, revealing that the Mexica (Aztec) Empire sourced this important material from at least eight different locations, including regions outside their political control. While 90% of artifacts were made from green obsidian from Sierra de Pachuca (especially for ceremonial purposes), the diversity of obsidian sources suggests sophisticated trade networks rather than just conquest-based acq…
Aztecs Used Vast Trade Networks to Source Obsidian, Study Finds
A study of 788 obsidian pieces uncovered the Aztecs trade networks. Image: Aztec Sun Stone. Credits: Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons. A new archaeological study by Tulane University and Mexico’s Proyecto Templo Mayor has revealed how the Mexica Empire, also known as the Aztecs, used vast trade networks to source and trade obsidian, volcanic glass once central to life, religion, and warfare in ancient Mesoamerica. Published in the Proceeding…
Study Reveals Vast Aztec Obsidian Trade Network - Archaeology Magazine
Tulane researchers Jason Nesbitt and Diego Matadamas-Gomora analyze an obsidian artifact NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA—Artisans in the Aztec, or Mexica, Empire used obsidian to make a variety of items, from ceremonial objects to everyday tools. According to a statement released by Tulane University, a new study—the largest of its kind ever undertaken—has indicated that the Aztecs developed a vast trade network to obtain the much sought-after volcanic m…
Unprecedented Survey of Aztec Obsidian Reveals Coast-to-Coast Trade Network
The Aztec Empire once hosted an expansive trade network that brought volcanic glass to its capital from right across Mesoamerica, from coast to coast.The largest compositional study of obsidian artifacts found in the ancient Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan has now revealed the far-flung influence of the Mexica culture – the largest and most powerful faction of the Aztec Alliance. The 788 precious obsidian objects analyzed include weapons, urns…
Study reveals vast Aztec trade networks
A new study by Tulane University, in collaboration with Mexico’s Proyecto Templo Mayor, reveals new insights into the extensive obsidian trade networks of the Mexica (Aztecs). Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass that forms when lava cools rapidly with minimal crystal growth. The glass can break to form very sharp edges, making it an ideal material for crafting blades, arrowheads, and ceremonial objects by various Mesoamerican cultur…
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