The occurrence of rutile, brookite, and anatase on Dartmoor

Abstract

The occurrence of brookite aud anatase within the limits of the Dartmoor granite exposure was first indicated by a sample of stream-sand taken two years ago below the bridge at Dartmeet–a locality which is noteworthy for sands rich ill these and other accessory minerals of the Dartmoor granite. Anatase, either alone or associated with brookite in small amounts, was found in a majority of the sands taken the following year at selected points along (1) the Plym River, between Cadover Bridge and Hatter Tor, (2) the East Dart and the West Dart, upstream from Dartmeet, (3) the West Webburn, upstream from Ponsworthy, (4) the East Webburn, upstream from Lizwell Meet, and (5) minor streams in the Hamel Down-Bonehill Down area. Rutile proved to be a rare mineral, liable to be overlooked in a residue containing brown cassiterite, from which it cannot readily be distinguished except by microchemical means.