The time of eclogite formation in the ultrahigh pressure rocks of the Sulu terrane

► Garnets in Sulu UHP eclogites reveal strong, unmodified HREE zoning profiles indicating preservation of growth information. ► The Lu-Hf system proves as a valuable tool for dating UHP eclogites, especially for garnets with prograde growth patterns. ► Lu-Hf ages in this terrane indicate a prolonged metamorphic history on large scales, and short, small scale punctuated events.