The evolution of the Scottish mineral sub-province.

Abstract

In this review (with 200 references) it is demonstrated that the Lewisian rocks were the ultimate source of most of the elements featuring in economic concentrations of metalliferous minerals in Scotland, NW of a line running through Loch Tay. The processes of derivation and concentration were: 1) mechanical weathering, 2) alkaline chemical weathering and 3) direct partial melting. Mantle contributions to the crust added Cr, Ni, Cu and Au to the Dalradian during rifting; Ba, Pb, Zn, Ag, Au, Pt, As and Sb were added during subduction and accretion of the Iapetus ocean-floor and sediments in the Lower Palaeozoic.-R.A.H.