Rock Varnish: Recorder of Desert Wetness?

Abstract

Rock varnish is a thin coating (<200 µm) of a cocktail rich in Mn, Fe, and clay minerals that is ubiquitous in desert regions. It has become the center of a contentious controversy revolving around its use to date geomorphic surfaces and/or to evaluate past climate conditions. We observe pronounced temporal variations in Mn and Ba concentration that are similar over large regions and that likely relate to variations in paleo-wetness. The mode of formation of varnish remains uncertain, but anthropogenic Pb concentrated in outermost varnish layers indicates its continued formation, and experiments using cosmogenic Be suggest that, while precipitation is a primary control, dust, dew, and aerosols may also be important in delivering the ingredients of varnish. We suggest several steps that may lead to rejuvenation and future breakthrough in varnish studies.