http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hematite
Would it be possible for the Mesoamerican states in South America to discover and mine Hematite ore? There were several large deposits along the coast of South America, within the Inca Empire's historical borders. If so, how would this have altered and changed the way they developed culturally and technologically?
Could this ore be used to make weaponry? I'm not sure if it has the necessary properties to be made into durable swords or similar weapons. Hopefully someone here is a bit more knowledgeable of mineral deposits than I am.
Note, there were numerous smaller kingdoms and empires rising and falling in this region long before the Incas, so if any of them have the ability to mine this ore then I consider them a viable candidate.
Would it be possible for the Mesoamerican states in South America to discover and mine Hematite ore? There were several large deposits along the coast of South America, within the Inca Empire's historical borders. If so, how would this have altered and changed the way they developed culturally and technologically?
Could this ore be used to make weaponry? I'm not sure if it has the necessary properties to be made into durable swords or similar weapons. Hopefully someone here is a bit more knowledgeable of mineral deposits than I am.
Note, there were numerous smaller kingdoms and empires rising and falling in this region long before the Incas, so if any of them have the ability to mine this ore then I consider them a viable candidate.