The variety of patterns, designs and subtle colour combinations of the outcrops of rock, and the cracks and crevices occurring in them, seem endless at Kimmeridge Bay. I am sure that for everything there is a logical explanation of cause and effect if you can get to grips with the geological, physical and chemical processes involved. However, I have no intention here of doing anything other than illustrate some of these interesting natural features that anyone can see and marvel at if they visit this wonderful location.
Each pattern and colour combination could be an artistic creation.
Amongst all the polygonal and triangular shapes in this patch of yellow and orange stone there is an enigmatic sigmoid curve running from top to bottom of the picture.
Within some of the cracks that divide this rock layer into a cobble-stone pavement, are parallel lines of what seems to be iron. It really does look as if someone has put this in place but I am certain it is naturally occurring. You can see also these lines in the rock crevices in the other photographs below.
For detailed information about the geology of Kimmeridge Bay see the most excellent academic guide written by Ian West of the National Oceanography Centre in Southampton University.
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Tags: beach, coast, colours, crack, crevice, Dorset, fault, fissure, geology, JURASSIC COAST, Kimmeridge Bay, limestone, nature, patterns, photographs, rock ledge, rock pavement, rock platform, seashore, sediments, shore, strata, UK
