The correct option is (c) 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
Lothal, a prominent city of the Indus Valley Civilization located in Gujarat, was a major centre for trade and craft production. It is particularly renowned for its specialized bead-making industry, which supplied carnelian and other stone beads to distant lands, including Mesopotamia.Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: Archaeological evidence from the bead-making workshop at Lothal includes a variety of raw materials. Stones in the form of nodules, rough-outs, and flakes were found, indicating that the initial stages of processing took place there.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Specialized tools required for craft production were discovered at the site. This includes bronze drills and other implements used for boring holes into the beads, which is a distinctive feature of Harappan craftsmanship.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The workshop contained finished beads ready for use or export. Additionally, archaeologists found beads in various stages of production, rejected beads, and waste materials, which collectively confirm the site's function as a manufacturing centre.
Key Takeaway: In archaeology, the identification of a craft production centre is primarily based on the simultaneous presence of raw materials, tools, unfinished objects, rejects, and waste material at a specific location.