In the middle and late Neolithic period, between 4300 and 2500 BC, the usual form of burial was in a pit grave. Bodies, together with grave goods, were placed in pits lined and covered with slabs of stone. Offerings and objects accompanied the dead person on their journey into the afterlife. Mining activities began and miners sought materials for making decorative items. Variscite, a highly-prized green stone, was used for making necklace beads and as a currency for bartering and trade.