Europe's Neolithic phase is believed to have begun roughly about 10-12 thousand years ago. In other parts of the world it may have started sooner. Distinguishing characteristics of neolithic culture: 1. * The presence of polished stone implements. Such as a stone axe bound to a wooden handle. An abundance of arrowheads. 2. * The beginnings of agriculture, particularly the use of plants and seeds. Even as hunting continued to be a major factor. 3. * Pottery and actual cooking. 4. * As people become less migratory and more settled, the domestication of animals such as dogs, cattle and sheep. 5. * Plaiting and weaving.