How to Grade Arrowheads

Examine the symmetry that represents how well one side of the arrowhead creates a mirror image of the other half. For example, a perfectly symmetrical arrowhead with an identical number of notches will grade a 9 or 10 while less symmetrical arrowheads receive a 6 to 8. Asymmetrical arrowheads with odd shapes, too much thinning, chips, or missing tips receive a grade of 3 to 5 depending on the severity of the asymmetry.

Examine the point, looking for sharpness and smooth, crescent-shaped flakes. Sharper stones with near-perfect points receive higher grades of 9 or 10 whereas thin, dull points receive a grade of 6 to 9. Dull, chipped, notched, damaged or asymmetrical points receive grades of 3 to 5.

Judge the arrowhead according to "category shape" that can consist of classic arrowhead or spear. Classic arrowheads, for instance, have a slightly curved, pyramid-shaped head that rests atop a slightly concave "tree-trunk" base. Spear arrowheads, however, have a triangular head with straight edges, and the base resembles a thin stump because hunters would embed this base into a wooden shaft.

Consider the size, knowing that when it comes to arrowheads, larger equals better. All other characteristics being equal, a two-inch arrowhead with good symmetry and sharpness will grade 1 or 2 points higher than a smaller 1-inch arrowhead.

Examine the arrowhead body's flaking pattern for symmetry, smoothness, and overall freedom from chips or fractures. The flaking gives the arrowhead its sharpness and represents the notches within the arrowhead that "cut" into prey.

Compare your arrowhead to photos of arrowheads graded by relic experts as listed in the Overstreet Identification and Price Guide (see resources). Grades often get assigned according to some hypothetical average, so unless you have access to this standard, you can easily over-grade or under-grade your stone.