Flint and stone were used during the Neolithic to make a wide variety of tools. Good flint and fine-grained stone had excellent working properties, though flint was best for flaking and so very suitable for small, sharp tools. Both were worked into axes, adzes and chisels. In areas where good sources were lacking, people would use what they could (pebble flint from beaches and rivers for example). However, trade and exchange ensured that goods could be obtained outside their areas of origin.

Some fine-grained rocks can, like flint, be flaked to a rough shape (struck with a stone hammer to remove flakes). Pecking, also with a stone hammer, will remove smaller pieces still, and grinding on a suitable hard, abrasive rock such as sandstone shapes a piece further. Polishing improves the strength and cutting quality, and also gives a pleasing appearance.

Some axes and other implements were carefully polished all over to a degree exceeding practical needs, and this could have added symbolic value. Such items were likely to have featured in the formal exchange of gifts and other ceremonies.