Copper metallurgy spread throughout West Asia and developed independently in parts of Europe after 5000 BC.
Initially objects were produced from copper often mixed with arsenic or antimony (a metal) but not alloyed with tin to make true bronze, and gold-working was also practised: this early period of metalworking is known as the Chalcolithic (Copper-Stone) Age.
Copper-working technology developed gradually from smelting, hammering and casting, with kiln technology being used later on. Most copper objects were ornaments, as pure copper was too soft to be of value in making functional tools or weapons.
Copper production, the introduction of the wheel and animal traction allowed long-distance trade to develop. Amber, copper, marine shells, hard stone and flint , pottery and probably textiles were exchanged in various directions creating centres of wealth and prestige near sources of these materials and trading cross-roads.
Under these new conditions, social relations changed with greater emphasis being placed on groups of individuals within the community. Copper objects played a mainly social role by emphasizing the status of individuals who had access to these prestigious items and could control their production and exchange.
The widespread distribution of copper objects shows the large-scale trade and exchange networks that existed.
