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Is the block an ancient Olmec object?

Asked 26 Oct 2026 by ·3 answers·0·0 following
Most likely: the block and its incisions are ancient Olmec workAhead on the evidence, not yet confirmed. It needs two reviews to be accepted.

Where it stands

Three answers have been proposed. The block and its incisions are ancient Olmec work. leads, with evidence 3 for: supported by its tests. Two are still possible. Of the one narrower question under it, none is answered yet.

Why it matters

The block came from bulldozed quarry debris with no recorded context, which left room for doubt about its authenticity⁠[1]⁠[2].

Answers 3

Evidence: 3 for
Most likely
None of these.
Not tested enough to call either way
Evidence: none yet
Still possible
Evidence: 1 for
Disputed

History

  1. Skidmore: pitting over incisions and mineralisation in the lines indicate ancient surface alteration; confirmed by…For: The block and its incisions are ancient Olmec work.
  2. Bruhns & Kelker puts forward: the inscription is a modern addition or hoax on an old or newly worked stone.
  3. Bruhns & Kelker: the block is unique and from a disturbed context.For: The inscription is a modern addition or hoax on an old or newly worked stone.
  4. Englehardt et al. puts forward: the block and its incisions are ancient Olmec work.
  5. Englehardt et al.: xRF matches the serpentinite to Tehuitzingo, Puebla, an Olmec source.For: The block and its incisions are ancient Olmec work.
  6. Asked on this site
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