The BGS Lexicon of Named Rock Units — Result Details

Morar Schists Formation

Computer Code: MAMS Preferred Map Code: notEntered
Status Code: Full
Age range: Tonian Period (AT) — Tonian Period (AT)
Lithological Description: Dominant pelitic to semipelitic beds. In places massive, elsewhere clearly interbedded. Locally three different units can be recognised: (i) interbedded pelite, semipelite and psammite with calc-silicate; (ii) schistose pelite with subordinate semipelite layers; (iii) laminated semipelite and micaceous psammite, with thin siliceous psammite and calc-silicate layers.
Definition of Lower Boundary: Conformably upon the Lower Morar Psammite Formation (MALP). Relatively sharp boundary.
Definition of Upper Boundary: Conformably overlain by the Upper Morar Psammite Formation (MAUP).
Thickness: c. 100 - 1000m; highly variable due to deformation.
Geographical Limits: NW Highlands: Ardnamurchan, Morar, Knoydart, Kintail.
Parent Unit: Morar Group (MORR)
Previous Name(s): none recorded or not applicable
Alternative Name(s): none recorded or not applicable
Stratotypes:
none recorded or not applicable
Reference(s):
Ramsay, J.G. and Spring, J., 1962. Moine stratigraphy in the Western Highlands of Scotland. Proceedings of the Geological Association, 73: 295-326. 
Krabbendam, M. 2021. A stratigraphic framework for the early Neoproterozoic successions of the Northern Highlands of Scotland. UK Stratigraphic Framework Series. British Geological Survey Open Report, OR/21/072. 86pp. 
Johnstone, G S, Smith, D I, and Harris, A L. 1969. The Moinian Assemblage of Scotland. In: Kay, M. (editor). North Atlantic Geology and Continental Drift: A Symposium. Memoirs of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, Vol. 12, 159-180. 
Bonsor H C, and Prave A R. 2008. The Upper Morar Psammite of the Moine Supergroup, Ardnamurchan Peninsula, Scotland: depositional setting, tectonic implications. Scottish Journal of Geology 44, 1-12. 
1:50K maps on which the lithostratigraphical unit is found, and map code used:
S071 S061 S061 S062