Recent digs at the Adichanallur archaeological site in Tamil Nadu have uncovered a massive industrial cluster specialized in iron smelting and bead making. The presence of furnace remains and crucibles alongside finished iron implements suggests a highly organized manufacturing hub dating back to 800 BCE.
The discovery of carnelian and quartz beads in various stages of production indicates that this region was part of a robust pre-Sangam era trade network. This evidence further reinforces the theory of a sophisticated urban civilization in the Thamirabarani river valley during the early first millennium BCE.