GEOCHEMICAL AND MINERALOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF SUBDIVISIONS WITHIN THE SHARON SPRINGS MEMBER, PIERRE SHALE (CAMPANIAN, CRETACEOUS)

The Sharon Springs Member of the Pierre Shale has been subdivided into three lithologic units. Variations in the lithology of these units can be quantified by geochemical and mineralogical variations that reflect the depositional environment. Samples were evaluated using x-ray diffraction, inorganic and organic petrology, isotope geochemistry, and organic and inorganic geochemistry. Variations in the geochemistry and mineralogy can be used to interpret changing environments and sedimentation patterns in the Sharon Springs Formation, and can be used to interpret tectonic and eustatic influences on the sedimentation.