New data on the composition of cumulus phases in the Belhelvie intrusion presented by Wadsworth (1991) are discussed in the light of existing data and of knowledge on the form and internal structure of the intrusion. The relevance of the Rustenburg Layered suite of the Bushveld Complex as a model for the 'single intrusion' hypothesis for the layered basic intrusions in NE Scotland is examined: current knowledge of the Rustenburg Layered Suite and related intrusions suggests that similar crystallisation sequences of cumulus phases and ranges of cryptic variation do not give any case for a single intrusion hypothesis.

Ultramafic, troctolitic and gabbroic rocks at the northern end of the Belhelvie layered intrusion display progressive cryptic variation over a stratigraphic thickness of approximately 800 m in steeply-dipping cumulates, which young from W to E. This variation is shown by olivine (Fo87−77), orthopyroxene (En87−79), clinopyroxene (Ca45Mg48Fe7 to Ca44.5Mg45.5Fe10) and plagioclase (An81−75). The Belhelvie succession is believed to be equivalent to the poorly-exposed and structurally complex Insch Lower Zone. A laterally impersistent hypersthene-gabbro unit within the main sequence is re-interpreted as a downfaulted block of slightly more evolved cumulates. A repeat sequence of peridotites, troctolites and gabbros on the eastern side of the intrusion, and separated from the underlying main succession by a thin septum of country rock, is believed to represent a fresh influx of magma.