Puma Punku: How Hard Is Diorite? The Material Of This Ancient Place.
In a recent YouTube video, Brian from Hidden in the Tours takes us to Puma Punku, a fascinating archaeological site in Bolivia, where he explores the hardness of diorite—the material that has sparked endless debate among enthusiasts and researchers alike. Diorite, often noted for its impressive and precise engineering features, is thought by some to have been shaped using techniques far beyond our current understanding.
Brian clarifies a common misconception: while diorite is indeed a tough stone, ranking between six and seven on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness (with diamond topping the scale at ten), it is not as indestructible as some might believe. He explains that granite shares a similar hardness to diorite, emphasizing that common tools, such as a standard knife, can chip away at diorite. This revelation challenges the notion that only diamond can work with this material.
What makes the site even more intriguing is the artistry found in the pottery discovered in the area, some of which appears to contain gold or pyrite. This level of craftsmanship raises questions about the cultural and technological capabilities of the ancient inhabitants of Puma Punku, bringing to light discussions about their potential knowledge or methods of working with materials that some believe are too advanced for their time.
The video serves as a reminder that while we may fantasize about alien involvement or lost technologies, it is equally possible that human ancestors possessed knowledge and skills that we have yet to fully understand today. This thought invites viewers and enthusiasts alike to delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding this ancient site.
What are your thoughts on the engineering skills of ancient civilizations? Do you find it plausible that they had methods that are now lost to history? Share your insights and experiences with similar historical enigmas!