This report sets out a framework and terminology for classifying
and naming lithodemic units composed entirely or
predominantly of intrusive rock. It has been written with the
geology of the UK in mind, but the principles and definitions
recommended here should be applicable globally. The
report anticipates a second phase of work, in which a BGS
lithodemic classification for onshore intrusions in the UK
will be constructed using the recommendations set out here.
It is expected that this classification will in future be extended
to include other classes of lithodemic unit (highly deformed,
highly metamorphosed and ‘mixed’), and lithodemic units
in offshore parts of the UK.
A hierarchical framework of six formal ranks is proposed.
Recommendations are made for classifying
lithodemic units within the hierarchy and for constructing
formal names for lithodemic units. A comprehensive glossary
contains definitions for ‘approved’ lithodemic terms
and for other terms associated with lithodemic classification.
Some amendments to the existing form for making entries
to the BGS Lexicon of Named Rock Units are suggested in
order to make it compatible with some of the special characteristics
of lithodemic units. It is proposed that a Lithodemic
Framework Committee be established to approve new names
for lithodemic units and to oversee management and development
of the classification. Examples showing how the
proposed classification and nomenclature will work are set
out in an Appendix, generally in the form of simplified geological
maps accompanied by a ‘classification’ of the
illustrated lithodemic units in a hierarchical chain.
In anticipation of a second phase of work that will produce
a full lithodemic classification, it is proposed that intrusive
lithodemic units associated with each of the four major
Phanerozoic tectonothermal events to have affected the UK
(‘Caledonian’, ‘Variscan’, ‘Carboniferous and Permian’, and
‘Atlantean’) be grouped at the highest formal rank proposed
here to create four ‘supersuites’; a brief summary is provided
of the salient aspects of each of these four events
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