Over the last half century the study of rockshelter and cave sediments has evolved from straightforward descriptive analysis to sophisticated examination on several scales-from field observations to bulk laboratory analyses to microscopic examination. Still an integrated theory to guide the interpretation of these analyses does not exist, in part because of the idiosyncratic nature of individual caves and rockshelters. This paper reviews studies that couple field observations with laboratory analyses including particle size, pebble morphology, chemical, and mineralogical studies to provide, first, the necessary basic description of the sediments and, second, an interpretation of the environment of sedimentation. These studies can lead to an understanding of site-formation processes during human occupation, and eventually to a reconstruction of local and, in some cases, regional paleoclimates. Furthermore, sediment study is essential for intrasite correlation, independent of artifact, faunal, floral, and radiometric techniques. Finally, it is emphasized that close cooperation among sedimentologists, archaeologists, and biological specialists during planning, excavation, and interpretative stages is crucial to a successfully integrated study. ᭧

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Rockshelter and cave-mouth deposits accumulate in specialized niches through the breakdown of the enclosing bedrock, the addition of windblown and fluvial sediment and, in the case of prehistoric sites, human habitation debris. Certain modifications of routine sediment analysis are necessary in order to realize the full potential of paleoenvironmental interpretation. These sediments are coarse, necessitating the collection of large samples, commonly 10–20 kg. The size and shape of the coarse fraction yields information on rockfalls, freeze-thaw activity, and weathering effects. Travertine and soil-carbonate coatings on the rock fragments indicate variations in ambient humidity and soil formation, respectively. Studies of the granulometry, mineralogy, and geochemistry of the fine fraction lead to conclusions concerning primarily the postdepositional modification of the sediments. Heavy minerals can be important in determining the provenience of the fine sediment. These methods of analysis are discussed in detail with the Abri Pataud as a specific example, and caution is urged in making regional generalizations from the study of a single site.