The plutonic igneous complex at Sorel Point, Jersey, Channel Islands: a high level multi-magma assemblage

Abstract

Sorel Point lies on the north coast of Jersey, Channel Islands, and comprises a variety of lithologies within the compositional spectrum gabbro–diorite–granodiorite–granite. The rocks of the complex can be separated into four groups, each representing a separate intrusive episode. Each group consists of at least two lithologies which were present as coexisting magmas. The groups are separated by the time required for the preceding intrusive episode to crystallize completely. The rocks thus display a variety of contact relationships. Certain of the rocks present were produced by physical and chemical interactions between coexisting magmas. The rocks have calc-alkaline chemistry and were formed at high crustal levels during the latter stages of the Cadomian orogeny. The Sorel Point complex demonstrates the availability of a wide variety of magmas in a relatively condensed space and time and allows an insight into the formation of a constantly evolving subvolcanic magma chamber. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.