Perforated stones are widely distributed in prehistoric sites across South China and Southeast Asia. Typically coexisting with chipped stone tools, ground stone tools, and other relics, they constitute a significant element of the regional prehistoric culture. However, due to the limited number of perforated stones unearthed at each site, in-depth research opportunities are substantially restricted, leading to diverse academic viewpoints regarding their functions and usage.

In Guangxi, the perforated stones excavated date from the late Paleolithic to the late Neolithic period, indicating their long - term utilization. In recent years, a substantial quantity of perforated stones has been discovered at Yahuai Cave in Guangxi. These artifacts not only date back to as early as 25,000 years ago but also exhibit diverse shapes and distinct usage traces.

This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of the shape characteristics, raw materials, and usage traces of the perforated stones from Yahuai Cave. The size characteristics of the perforated stones and the presence or absence of a grinding surface serve as the classification criteria. Archaeological evidence at the site reveals that prehistoric inhabitants of Yahuai Cave utilized stone anvils to process these perforated stones. The raw materials of the Yahuai Cave perforated stones are predominantly flat, round, or nearly round sandstone cobbles. They were perforated through a two - face piercing method at the center of the stone body, with stone awls employed as the primary processing tool.

Most of the perforated stones display usage traces in the hole area and on parts of the stone body, and some are stained with ochre pigment. Integrating the site context, this study reveals the functional diversity of these perforated stones. It is speculated that they might have been used for plant rope making, as fire - making tools, and digging tools. Additionally, they could have served as stone hammers, stone anvils, and stone grinding tools, participating in ochre processing activities such as grinding and crushing. The extensive usage traces on various parts of the perforated stones suggest a high overall utilization rate, indicating that they were versatile utility tools.

On one hand, the functional diversity of perforated stones reflects the innovative tool - using practices of prehistoric people; on the other hand, it also demonstrates the wisdom and environmental adaptation strategies of prehistoric communities.