Archaeology of Teotihuacan, Mexico
Shell earplugs were only found in female burials
(Graves 2,
10, and 11) and in the central
grave (Grave 14) (Photo left shows
the excavation context in Grave 10). Except for one piece found in
Grave 14, the form of which is similar to that of greenstone
earspool, all others had a standard form, although detailed features
make sub-grouping possible. An earplug of the standard form consists
of a round flat plaque with a small hole in its center and of a
supplemental appendage that seem to have been used to attach it to
the ear. All females in all graves had earplugs of this type with
corresponding appendages. The appendages were often found very
fragmented, as they were composed of organic materials covered with
stucco. It can be argued on the basis of the sex identification by
the physical anthropologists that the earplugs were strongly
correlated with sex in the Feathered Serpent Pyramid burial complex:
they seem to have been used only for females.
In the central grave (Grave 14), five shell earplugs were found without clear association with individuals. One piece of unusual type was discovered near the southwest edge of the grave. Four other pieces were found near individuals, leaving a possibility that they might have been worn.
