Thimbles and thimble rings from the circum-Caribbean region, 1500–1800: Chronology and identification

This paper provides an overview of literature on the subject of thimbles. Particular attention is devoted to the identification of functional categories and determining the gender and age composition of a site using thimbles. Major innovations in construction, decorative patterning, and shape are identified as well. Archaeologically, thimbles are often recovered at European domestic sites, in aboriginal burials, and as trade goods. This omnipresent artifact has considerable potential for general dating and demographic purposes.