In the Neolithic, a new stone processing technique appears, the polishing; it is practiced on the “green stone”, a generic term to indicate different rocks (eclogites and jadeites) characterized by particular strength. The best deposits are those of the western Alps, especially in the Monviso area: roughly-shaped or semi-finished pieces are already prepared near the quarries and axes made with this raw material have been found in various sites in Europe, up to 1800 kilometers. of distance.

A masculine object par excellence, the axes have a different function: those with a smooth cutting edge and spiked heel are used for deforesting or tilling the ground, those entirely polished, and sometimes obtained from the precious jadeite, are destined for the funerary objects of prominent individuals.