How do archaeologists classify artifacts as utilitarian or luxury items?

By the materials and technologies used in their production

Examining artifacts is another approach employed by archaeologists to discern social differences, which can be broadly categorized as utilitarian or luxury items. Utilitarian objects are those used in daily life, crafted from common materials such as stone or clay. These include querns, pottery, needles, and flesh-rubbers, and are commonly found throughout settlements. On the other hand, luxury objects are considered rare or crafted from costly, non-local materials using intricate techniques. For instance, small faience pots, made from sand or silica mixed with color and a gum, were likely deemed precious due to their challenging production process.

However, the classification of certain artifacts becomes complex when objects of daily use, like spindle whorls made of rare materials such as faience, are discovered. Determining whether they should be categorized as utilitarian or luxury items presents a challenge.

By examining the distribution of such artifacts, a pattern emerges wherein rare objects made of valuable materials tend to be concentrated in large settlements like Mohenjodaro and Harappa, while they are rarely found in smaller settlements. For instance, miniature faience pots, possibly used as perfume bottles, are predominantly found in Mohenjodaro and Harappa, with no evidence of their presence in smaller settlements like Kalibangan. Similarly, gold was scarce and highly prized, as indicated by the fact that all gold jewelry discovered at Harappan sites was found in hoards.