The chip had been held in storage by the SNP after being gifted to former First Minister Alex Salmond in 2008.

A series of scientific tests completed by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) on behalf of the Commissioners for the Safeguarding of the Regalia have concluded that, from a scientific perspective, there is a high degree of certainty that it was taken from the Stone.

HES carried out a series of non-destructive scientific analyses of the sandstone fragment, comparing it to previous analyses carried out by HES on the Stone of Destiny. This included microscopic analysis examining the fragment’s grain structure, texture, shape, compaction and colour, and in all instances, the results were consistent with the sandstone fragment being derived from the Stone of Destiny.

This analysis, together with the family connection of the person who gifted the fragment in 2008, indicates that it is beyond any reasonable doubt that the fragment is genuine.

As agreed when the fragment was submitted for analysis, now that its authenticity has been established, the fragment will be retained by the Commissioners for the Safeguarding of the Regalia to be held on behalf of the Nation and the people of Scotland.

The Commissioners will now consider appropriate options for the future location of the fragment, including the option of it being placed in the new Perth Museum.

A final decision will be made in due course.