Fig. 2: Examples of ochres from sources and archaeological sites.

a Selected hand specimens of samples from sources included in this study. Ngwenya high grade (A–C), Ngwenya low grade (D–F), Kubuta (G), Bulembu (H–J), Lupholo Dam (K, L), Mnyongane (M, N), Maloma (O). Scale = 1 cm. b Examples of modified ochre artifacts from Sibebe, showing evidence for modification, including grooves created during grinding or scoring.