The many metamorphoses of the Moine

In a companion post I introduced you to a metamorphic rock with an apparently simple history. Using traditional geological techniques on this single outcrop can’t reveal the full history of the area, so this post will attempt summarise the latest research. In short the more closely you look, the more complicated things become. The many Phases of… Continue reading The many metamorphoses of the Moine

The deceptive simplicity of a metamorphic rock

I’d like to introduce you to a rock. Pretty isn’t it? The white crystals caught my eye, as they did that of three different geologists of the British Geological Survey, who between them collected 5 different samples from the same small area of Scotland. When did these crystals grow? How old are they? These rocks… Continue reading The deceptive simplicity of a metamorphic rock

Stirring tales from the deep past.

My cup of tea is sitting nearby, the rocket-fuel for the mind is sitting in a piece of man-made metamorphic rock and lying on the saucer is a humble object that bears mute witness to ancient, earth-changing events. Tea in England is typically taken with milk and sometimes with sugar – lots if it’s “builders’ tea” – and a small… Continue reading Stirring tales from the deep past.

Man-made metamorphic rocks

There’s a cup of tea next to me, steaming gently. I’ve already written about the history of the drink, how a Chinese herb ended up defining Englishness and having the power to create riots in Ireland. But what of the cup? It’s a posh one – not a thick heavy earthenware mug but a slightly translucent piece of porcelain, strong… Continue reading Man-made metamorphic rocks