The fragmentary assemblage was analysed by various techniques, mostly based on pétrographie methods, the results of which are summarised. The analyses generated data which are applicable to on-site spatial and chronological problems, in addition to those concerning characterisation and provenance study.

Macroscopic examination of pottery from each individual scatter and ceramic spot finds was undertaken to establish the extent of variation within these apparently discrete spreads of material. This information was enhanced by data from microscopic techniques. The colour, surface treatment, size and temper of inclusions and any other observable fabric characteristics were recorded from the hand specimen. Surface and fabric traits were identified with the aid of a binocular microscope and colour readings were taken with reference to Munsell Soil Colour Charts. One sample from each scatter or spot find was refired, with the exception of SF182 and SF184 (both consisted of one small sherd, and were therefore only available for thin sectioning.

Ancient DNA studies have identified western Scotland as the only known region in Britain where inter-breeding occurred between early 4th millennium bc Neolithic migrants and the indigenous Mesolithic population. By drawing on excavations at Mesolithic and Neolithic sites on the Isle of Islay, I identify a period of population overlap and suggest three scenarios for Mesolithic–Neolithic interaction: swift succession, dual population, and biocultural merger. These scenarios are evaluated against the archaeological evidence from Islay and elsewhere in western Scotland, and with reference to patterns of Mesolithic–Neolithic interaction in continental Europe. A cautious preference is expressed for biocultural merger, occurring between the mid-4th and mid-3rd millennia bc, a period that could be termed the ‘Neomesolithic’.