The chert of the Muir of Rhynie, containing plant-remains, was discovered by Dr W. Mackie of Elgin while investigating the sedimentary and volcanic rocks of Craigbeg and Ord Hill which occur in that area. The original discovery was made on loose specimens, built into the dykes or scattered over the fields, especially those lying to the north of the road which runs from Rhynie to Cabrach, and east and west of the right-of-way that here connects Windyfield Farm with the public road.