A users guide to Neoproterozoic geochronology

Radio-isotopic dating techniques provide temporal constraints for Neoproterozoic stratigraphy. Here we review the different types of materials (rocks and minerals) that can be (and have been) used to yield geochronological constraints on [Neoproterozoic] sedimentary successions, as well as review the different analytical methodologies employed. The uncertainties associated with a date are often ignored but are crucial when attempting to synthesise all existing data that are of variable quality. In this contribution we outline the major sources of uncertainty, their magnitude and the assumptions that often underpin them.