Scanning Electron Microscope analysis of the incising marks on the steatite tablets indicates the use of three different specialized bronze graving tools (see 58). Each tablet was first shaped from raw unfired steatite and then incised with the script. After incising, it was fired in a high temperature kiln that would have taken two or more days to reach the temperature of 1000 degrees Centigrade that is necessary to harden the steatite. On this group of tablets, the edge of the incision is very sharp and has no distinctive grooves.
