Pitcaple and Legatsden Quarries
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Condition (NatureScot)
| Unit | Feature | Condition | Area (ha) | Assessed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 | Caledonian Igneous | Favourable | — | 2009-08-27 |
Geology & landscape
Mining / Industrial: Quarry · Rock Type: Gabbro, Granite
Landscape processes: Volcanic / Igneous
Description
Pitcaple and Legatsden Quarries This site illustrates the complex relationship among the hypersthene-gabbros which broadly represent the middle stages of differentiation of the Insch intrusion. Most of the rocks exposed by quarrying are fine-grained granular gabbros, believed to be slightly younger than the coarser-grained gabbroic cumulates, although the field relationships indicate gradational contacts. The coarse-grained gabbros are well layered, with ‘sedimentary’ structures clearly visible locally. Later granite-pegmatite sheets have invaded both types of gabbro and have induced considerable secondary amphibolisation.