Constraints from zircon U–Pb ages, O and Hf isotopic compositions on the origin of Neoproterozoic peraluminous granitoids from the Jiangnan Fold Belt, South China

Zircon textures and micro-chemical compositions precisely record the origin and petrogenesis of granitoids, which are crucial for evaluating crustal growth and reworking, thermal and geodynamic evolution. Zircons in peraluminous granitoids from the three largest 820 Ma complexes (Guibei, Yueyang and Jiuling) in the Jiangnan Fold Belt in South China are used to constrain their sources and petrogenetic processes. Zircons in the Guibei granitoids have complex internal structures. Nearly all magmatic and inherited zircons have similar εHf (?6.8 to +5.6) and δ¹⁸O values (8.8–11.6 ‰) and dominantly lie between εHf evolution vectors for a crust created between 1.7 and 2.1 Ga, suggesting that the Guibei granitoids were produced by partial melting of recycled heterogeneous supracrustal material. However, the Yueyang granitoids contain zircons with high εHf (?0.5 to +9.7) and relatively low δ¹⁸O values (5.9–8.4 ‰) and two-stage model ages of 1.1–1.8 Ga, and thus may have been formed by melting of mafic rocks from the lower crust. The Jiuling granitoids and their enclaves contain more complex zircons with more variable εHf (?7.2 to +9.7) and δ¹⁸O values (7.0–10.6 ‰), and lie along the mixing trend between the above-proposed infracrustal and supracrustal granitoids. Therefore, the Neoproterozoic peraluminous granitoids in the Jiangnan Fold Belt were produced by melting and mixing of continental crust. Compared with extremely low (≤4 ‰) and negative δ¹⁸O values of Neoproterozoic igneous zircons formed in its northern active continental margin, the high δ¹⁸O peraluminous granitoids in the southeastern Yangtze Block are considered to have been formed by melting of hydrothermally unaltered continental crust triggered by asthenosphere upwelling in the Nanhua back-arc basin.     

Source Diversity of Ore Sulfur from Mesozoic-Cenozoic Mineral Deposits in the Korean Peninsula Region

Abstract: Sulfides from the Daebo Jurassic granitoids and some ore deposits from Korean Peninsula and Sikhote Alin occurring in different basement settings were analyzed for δ³⁴S values. Highly positive values were obtained from Jurassic Mo skarn deposit at Geumseong of the Ogcheon belt (average +13. 0%), Au‐quartz vein deposits at Unsan, North Korea (+6. 7%), and late Paleozoic Sn‐F deposit at Votnesenka (+8. 2%), Khanka massif, Russia. Together with published data of that region, regional variation of δ³⁴S values is shown across Korean Peninsula. Sulfur isotopic data published are compiled on 88 ore deposits, whose mineralization epochs belong to Cretaceous (58 deposits), Jurassic (25 deposits) and Precambrian (4 deposits) in South Korea. Average sulfur isotopic values vary across South Korea as follows: Cretaceous deposits in the Gyeongsang basin, +4. 8% ranging +1.2 ? +12.7‰ (n=28); Jurassic and Cretaceous deposits in the Sobaegsan massif, +3. 5% ranging 0.0 ? +7.8‰ (n=20); those of the Ogcheon belt, +6. 4% ranging ‐0.5 ? +15.4‰(n=19); those of the Gyeonggi massif, +5. 5% ranging +2.1 ? +9.0‰(n = 21). The δ³⁴S values of South Korea tend to be concentrated around +5. 5 permil, exhibiting little, if any, a systematic variation across the geotectonic belts. This tendency is seen also in North Korea and Northeast China within the Cino‐Korean Block, and may be called as Cino‐Korean type. Sulfur of this type is derived mostly from the crystalline basement. Khanka massif of Russia seems to have features of the Cino‐Korean type. In contrast, paired positive/negative belts corresponding to magnetite‐series/ilmenite‐series granitic belts are overwhelming in the Japanese Islands, especially in Southwest Japan. The similar trend is also seen in southern Sikhote Alin and northern Okhotsk Rim, which may be called as Japanese type. Source of the sulfur in this type is likely in the subducting oceanic slab for positive value and accreted sedimentary complex for the negative value, respectively. The Daebo granitoids have an average rock δ³⁴S value of +5. 3 permil, which should have reflected that of the source rocks in the continental crust. The ore sulfur heavier than this value may have been originated in other granitoids having even higher δ³⁴S values, or the ore fluids interacted directly with sulfate sulfur of the host evaporites or carbonate rocks. Rock isotopic values of granitoids and basement rocks need to be examined in future from the above point of view in mind.     

A novel model for silicon recycling in the lithosphere: Evidence from the Central Asian Orogenic Belt

Global-scale cycling of silicon through the biosphere, atmosphere, and hydrosphere has received much attention although, silicon cycling in the Earth’s lithosphere remains poorly understood. As the products of internal heat and material exchange, igneous rocks preserve significant information of silicon migration through the lithosphere. Here we report silicon isotopic compositions of nine peraluminous granites from the Chinese Altai, which forms part of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. These rocks are characterized by the heaviest δ³⁰Si values (−0.13 ± 0.03‰ to +0.78 ± 0.05‰) compared to global granites, with a linear variation in the silicon isotopic values against silica content, with high silica-rich granites displaying more depleted isotopic compositions. In conjunction with the whole rock weakly negative ɛ_Nd(t) and uniform δ²⁶Mg values, as well as high δ¹⁸O values, we suggest that the δ³⁰Si values of these granites were mainly inherited from the magma source, rather than produced by magmatic fractionation. In addition, the wide range of initial ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr ratios and high Ba content of the samples suggest the role of aqueous fluids. The Chinese Altai is considered to have formed through accretion of volcanic arcs associated with subduction of the Paleo-Asian oceanic lithosphere. The magma derived through partial melting of metasomatic mantle scavenges the heavy ³⁰Si isotopes derived through fluids released from oceanic sediments and transfers to the upper crust where partial melting of crustal sedimentary rocks occur. Mixing of these two melts generated the peraluminous granites. Our study offers a novel insight into a potentially important mechanism of silicon cycling in the lithosphere.     

Oxygen Isotopic Compositions of the Cape Ashizuri Granitoids in Southwest Japan

Oxygen isotopic composition was determined on representative samples of the Cape Ashizuri plutonic rocks, in order to estimate the genetic background of the biotite granite and alkaline granitoids. The biotite granite (70.1–76.1% SiO₂) ranged from 8.61 to 9.30‰ δ¹⁸O and averaged as 8.9‰ δ¹⁸O (n = 3), which is much smaller than the same Miocene granitoids of the Okueyama (avg. 10.1‰) and Takakumayama (11.6‰) granitic bodies, which are associated with tin mineralization. Among the alkaline granitoids, quartz syenites also have values as low as 7.14–8.70‰, with an average of 8.0‰ (n = 3), and monzonite and gabbro vary from 6.14 to 7.86‰, with an average of 7.0‰ (n = 3). These alkaline granitoids may be lower crustal in origin. The gabbroids containing 12.5% MgO at the maximum with low Sr initial ratio, are considered to be derived from the upper mantle through the fore‐arc tectonic break‐up on the subducting slab.     

The evolution of two petrogenesis-mineralization series of granites in Southern China

In this paper, the authors have proposed two distinct series of petrogenesis and mineralization: Series I and Series II. Series I (the Nanling Series) has a sequence of petrogenesis and mineralization: monzonitic granite or granodiorite → biotite granite → leuco-granite → granoporphyry or quartz porphyry → intermediate-basic dikes; REE → Nb, Ta (Li, Rb, Cs), Be, Sn, W, Mo, Bi, As → Cu, Zn, Pb → Sb, Hg, U. Series II (the Yangtze Series): Pyroxene diorite (or gabbro) → diorite or quartz diorite → granodiorite (quartz monzonite or monzonitic granite → granite → K-feldspar granite → granoporphyry or quartz porphyry (syenitic porphyry or quartz syenitic porphyry) → intermediate-basic dikes; Fe → Cu(Au) → Mo(W) → Zn, Pb → Pb (Ag). Obvious differences have been recognized between Series I and II. As for Series II, the bulk composition is close to that of andesite. Relatively high temperatures of formation (980°–1,140°C) petrochemical enrichment in Mg and Ca, the composition of biotite characterized by high magnesium, assemblages of accessory minerals (magnetite-sphene-apatite or magnetite-ilmenite-REE-rich zireon), trace elements predominated by Cl and Sr with ΣCe>ΣY in the rocks and accessory minerals, relatively high σEu(0.74–0.99) without depletion, δ¹⁸O<10‰ δ³⁴S close to that of meteorite sulfur, relatively high content of platinum metals (>10 times) characteristic of mantle origin, vory low⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr (0.7036–0.7085) and the occurrence of intermediate-basic dikes (similar to basaltic composition) in the final evolutionary stage are sufficiently enough to show that Series II has a material source in the lower crust or in the upper mantle. The fact that⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr>0.7037 in most cases implies a partial incorporation of crust materials. As for Series I, the bulk composition is consistent with that of normal granites. Relatively low temperatures of formation (600°–680°C), chemical composition noted for high SiO₂ and K₂O, complicated accessory mineralogy and assemblages (magnetiteilmenite-zircon, or monazite-xenotime-zircon), biotite with high content of iron, trace elements predominated by F, Li, Rb (Cs) and Be, relatively low δEu with distinct depletion, δ¹⁸O>10‰ greatly varying δ³⁴S, low content of platinum metals typical of mantle derivation, high⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr (0.7112–0.7360), in conjunction with the consideration of mineralizations of REE, Nb, Ta, Sn, Be, W, Bi, etc. of crust origin, indicate that the continental crust is the main material source for Series I. The possibility, however, cannot be ruled out that a small amount of upper mantle-derived material took part in this process, as has been indicated by lower⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr (≈0.7100), part of δ³⁴S close to that of meteorite sulfur and the occurrence of intermediate-basic dikes (similar to basalts in composition) as the end products of magmatic evolution. It is of interest to note that granitoid rocks of these two series in southeast China show considerable dissimilarities with those in Japan and Australia in⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr, δ¹⁸O and δ³⁴S.     

Origin and geodynamic evolution of Late Paleogene magmatic associations along the Periadriatic-Sava-Vardar magmatic belt

Abstract

Along the Periadriatic Lineament in the Alps and the Sava-Vardar Zone of the Dinarides and Hellenides, Paleogene magmatic associations form a continuous belt, about 1700 km long. The following magmatic associations occur: (1) Eocene granitoids; (2) Oligocene granitoids including tonalites; (3) Oligocene shoshonite and calc-alkaline volcanics with lamprophyres; (4) Egerian-Eggenburgian (Chattian) calc-alkaline volcanics and granitoids. All of these magmatic associations are constrained by radiometric ages, which indicate that the magmatic activity was mainly restricted to the time span between 55 and 29 Ma. These igneous rocks form, both at surface and in the subsurface, the distinct linear Periadriatic-Sava-Vardar magmatic belt, with three strikes that are controlled by the indentation of Apulia and Moesia and accompanying strike-slip faulting. The geology, seismicity, seismic tomography and magnetic anomalies within this belt suggest that it has been generated in the African-Eurasian suture zone. Based on published analytical data, the petrology, major and trace element contents and Sr, Nd and O isotopie composition of each magmatic association are briefly defined. These data show that Eocene and Oligocene magmatic associations of the Late Paleogene Periadriatic-Sava-Vardar magmatic belt originated along a consuming plate margin. Based on isotopie systems, two main rock groups can be distinguished: (1) ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr = 0.7036–0.7080 and δ¹⁸O = 5.9–7.2‰, indicating basaltic partial melts derived from a continental mantle-lithosphere, and (2) ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr = 0.7090–72131 and δ¹⁸O = 7.3–11.5‰, indicating crustal assimilation and melting. The mantle sources for the primary basalt melts are metasomatized garnet peridotites and/or spinel lherzolites and phlogopite lherzolites of upper mantle wedge origin. The geodynamic evolution of the plutonic and volcanic associations of the Periadriatic-Sava-Vardar magmatic belt was related to the Africa-Eurasia suture zone that was dominated by break-off of the subducted lithospheric slab of Mesozoic oceanic crust, at depths of 90–100 km. This is indicated by their contemporaneity along the 1700 km long belt. © 2002 Éditions scientifiques et médicales Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.     

Geochemistry and geodynamic setting of Late Cretaceous-Miocene basalts in the southern Korean Peninsula

Newly obtained data highlight strong geological and geochemical differences between Late Cretaceous-Paleogene and Eocene-Middle Miocene volcanic rocks in the southern Korean Peninsula. The rocks are spatially separated and differ in the proportions of acid and basic varieties. The Late Cretaceous-Paleogene basalts are similar to suprasubduction rocks in having high Al₂O₃, LILE, and Th contents, and low TiO₂ and HFSE contents. The Miocene basalts have a composition intermediate between those of subduction and within-plate rocks. Compared to subduction rocks, they are lower in radiogenic Sr, K, LILE (Cs, Rb, Ba), and Th and higher in MgO, Ni, Ti, and HREE. A drastic change in U, Ba, Rb, Ce, Th, and ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr in the basic volcanic rocks of the southern Korean Peninsula at the Late Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary suggests a decreasing sedimentary contribution to the magma. The latter testifies to a change in the direction of the motion of the oceanic and continental plates, increasing compressional forces and, finally, the cessation of subduction. The synthesis of the original authors and published data on Cenozoic volcanism of the southern Korean Peninsula and the eastern Sikhote Alin showed that the tectonic evolution of the eastern Eurasian margin occurred in four stages: Late Cretaceous-Paleogene, Eocene-Oligocene, Early, and Middle-Miocene.     

Zircon U-Pb age and Hf-O isotope insights into genesis of Permian Tarim felsic rocks,NW China: Implications for crustal melting in response to a mantle plume

Deciphering the contribution of crustal materials to A-type granites is critical to understanding their petrogenesis. Abundant alkaline syenitic and granitic intrusions distributed in Tarim Large Igneous Province, NW China, offer a good opportunity to address relevant issues. This paper presents new zircon Hf-O isotopic data and U-Pb dates on these intrusions, together with whole-rock geochemical compositions, to constrain crustal melting processes associated with a mantle plume. The ∼280 Ma Xiaohaizi quartz syenite porphyry and syenite exhibit identical zircon δ¹⁸O values of 4.40 ± 0.34‰ (2σ) and 4.48 ± 0.28‰ (2σ), respectively, corresponding to whole-rock δ¹⁸O values of 5.6‰ and 6.0‰, respectively. These values are similar to mantle value and suggest an origin of closed-system fractional crystallization from Tarim plume-derived melts. In contrast, the ∼275 Ma Halajun A-type granites have higher δ¹⁸O values (8.82–9.26‰) than the mantle. Together with their whole-rock ε_Nd(t) (−2.0–+0.6) and zircon ε_Hf(t) (−0.6–+1.5) values, they were derived from mixing between crust- and mantle-derived melts. These felsic rocks thus record crustal melting above the Tarim mantle plume. At ∼280–275 Ma, melts derived from decompression melting of Tarim mantle plume were emplaced into the crust, where fractional crystallization of a common parental magma generated mafic-ultramafic complex, syenite, and quartz syenite porphyry as exemplified in the Xiaohaizi region. Meanwhile, partial melting of upper crustal materials would occur in response to basaltic magma underplating. The resultant partial melts mixed with Tarim plume-derived basaltic magmas coupled with fractional crystallization led to formation of the Halajun A-type granites.     

Sulfur Isotope Variations of Metallic Ore Deposits in the Gyeongsang Basin,South Korea

Many metallic ore deposits of the Late Cretaceous to Early Tertiary periods are distributed in the Gyeongsang Basin. Previous and newly analyzed sulfur isotope data of 309 sulfide samples from 56 ore deposits were reviewed to discuss the genetic characteristics in relation to granitoid rocks. The metallogenic provinces of the Gyeongsang Basin are divided into the Au–Ag(–Cu–Pb–Zn) province in the western basin where the sedimentary rocks of the Shindong and Hayang groups are distributed, Pb–Zn(–Au–Ag–Cu), Cu–Pb–Zn(–Au–Ag), and Fe–W(–Mo) province in the central basin where the volcanic rocks of the Yucheon Group are dominant, and Cu(–Mo–W–Fe) province in the southeastern basin where both sedimentary rocks of the Hayang Group and Tertiary volcanic rocks are present. Average sulfur isotope compositions of the ore deposits show high tendencies ranging from 2.2 to 11.7‰ (average 5.4‰) in the Pb–Zn(–Au–Ag–Cu) province, ?0.7 to 11.5‰ (average 4.6‰) in the Cu–Pb–Zn(–Au–Ag) province, and 3.7 to 11.4‰ (average 7.5‰) in the Fe–W(–Mo) province in relation to magnetite‐series granitoids, whereas they are low in the Au–Ag(–Cu–Pb–Zn) province in relation to ilmenite‐series granitoids, ranging from ?2.9 to 5.7‰ (average 1.7‰). In the Cu(–Mo–W–Fe) province δ³⁴S values are intermediate ranging from 0.3 to 7.7‰ (average 3.6‰) and locally high δ³⁴S values are likely attributable to sulfur derived from the Tertiary volcanic rocks during hydrothermal alteration through faults commonly developed in this region. Magma originated by the partial melting of the ³⁴S‐enriched oceanic plate intruded into the volcanic rocks and formed magnetite‐series granitoids in the central basin, which contributed to high δ³⁴S values of the metallic deposits. Conversely, ilmenite‐series granitoids were formed by assimilation of sedimentary rocks rich in organic sulfur that influenced the low δ³⁴S values of the deposits in the western and southeastern provinces.     

Volcanic arc of Kamchatka: a province with high-δO magma sources and large-scale O/O depletion of the upper crust

We present the results of a regional study of oxygen and Sr-Nd-Pb isotopes of Pleistocene to Recent arc volcanism in the Kamchatka Peninsula and the Kuriles, with emphasis on the largest caldera-forming centers. The δ¹⁸O values of phenocrysts, in combination with numerical crystallization modeling (MELTS) and experimental fractionation factors, are used to derive best estimates of primary values for δ¹⁸O(magma). Magmatic δ¹⁸O values span 3.5‰ and are correlated with whole-rock Sr-Nd-Pb isotopes and major elements. Our data show that Kamchatka is a region of isotopic diversity with high-δ¹⁸O basaltic magmas (sampling mantle to lower crustal high-δ¹⁸O sources), and low-δ¹⁸O silicic volcanism (sampling low-δ¹⁸O upper crust). Among one hundred Holocene and Late Pleistocene eruptive units from 23 volcanic centers, one half represents low-δ¹⁸O magmas (+4 to 5‰). Most low-δ¹⁸O magmas are voluminous silicic ignimbrites related to large >10 km³ caldera-forming eruptions and subsequent intracaldera lavas and domes: Holocene multi-caldera Ksudach volcano, Karymsky and Kurile Lake-Iliinsky calderas, and Late Pleistocene Maly Semyachik, Akademy Nauk, and Uzon calderas. Low-δ¹⁸O magmas are not found among the less voluminous products of stratovolcano eruptions and these volcanoes do not show drastic changes in δ¹⁸O during their evolution. Additionally, high-δ¹⁸O(magma) of +6.0 to 7.5‰ are found among basalts and basaltic andesites of Bezymianny, Shiveluch, Avachinsky, and Koryaksky volcanoes, and dacites and rhyolites of Opala and Khangar volcanoes (7.1-8.0‰). Phenocrysts in volcanic rocks from the adjacent Kurile Islands (ignimbrites and lavas) define normal-δ¹⁸O magmas. The widespread and volumetric abundance of low-δ¹⁸O magmas in the large landmass of Kamchatka is possibly related to a combination of near-surface volcanic processes, the effects of the last glaciation on high-latitude meteoric waters, and extensive geyser and hydrothermal systems that are matched only by Iceland. Sr and Pb isotopic compositions of normal and low-δ¹⁸O, predominantly silicic, volcanic rocks show negative correlation with δ¹⁸O, similar to the trend in Iceland. This indicates that low-δ¹⁸O volcanic rocks are largely produced by remelting of older, more radiogenic, hydrothermally altered crust that suffered δ¹⁸O-depletion during >2 My-long Pleistocene glaciation. The regionally-distributed high-δ¹⁸O values for basic volcanism (ca. + 6 to +7.5‰) in Kamchatka cannot be solely explained by high-δ¹⁸O slab fluid or melt (± sediment) addition in the mantle, or local subduction of hydrated OIB-type crust of the Hawaii-Emperor chain. Overall, Nd-Pb isotope systematics are MORB-like. Voluminous basic volcanism (in the Central Kamchatka Depression in particular) requires regional, though perhaps patchy, remobilization of thick (30-45 km) Mesozoic-Miocene arc roots, possibly resulting from interaction with hot (ca. 1300°C), wedge-derived normal-δ¹⁸O, low-⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr basalts and from dehydration melting of lower crustal metabasalts, variably high in δ¹⁸O and ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr.     

Magnesium isotopic behaviors between metamorphic rocks and their associated leucogranites,and implications for Himalayan orogenesis

Magnesium isotopic compositions, along with new Sr–Nd–Pb isotopic data and elemental analyses, are reported for 12 Miocene tourmaline-bearing leucogranites, 15 Eocene two-mica granites and 40 metamorphic rocks to investigate magnesium isotopic behaviors during metamorphic processes and associated magmatism and constrain the tectonic-magmatic-metamorphic evolution of the Himalayan orogeny. The gneisses, granulites and amphibolites represent samples of the Indian lower crust and display large range in δ²⁶Mg from −0.44‰ to −0.09‰ in mafic granulites, −0.44‰ to −0.10‰ in amphibolites, and −0.70‰ to −0.03‰ in granitic gneisses. The average Mg isotopic compositions of the granitic gneisses (−0.19 ± 0.34‰), mafic granulites (−0.22 ± 0.17‰) and amphibolites (−0.25 ± 0.24‰) are similar, indicating the limited Mg isotope fractionation during prograde metamorphism from granitic gneisses to mafic granulites and retrograde metamorphism from mafic granulites to amphibolites. The Eocene two-mica granites and Miocene leucogranites are characterized by large variations in elemental and Sr–Nd–Pb isotopic compositions. The leucogranites and two-mica granites have their corresponding (⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr)_i varying from 0.7282 to 0.7860 and 0.7163 to 0.7191, (¹⁴³Nd/¹⁴⁴Nd)_i from 0.511888 to 0.512040 and 0.511953 to 0.512076, ²⁰⁷Pb/²⁰⁴Pb from 15.7215 to 15.7891 and 15.7031 to 15.7317, ²⁰⁸Pb/²⁰⁴Pb from 38.8521 to 39.5286 and 39.2710 to 39.4035, and ²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁴Pb from 18.4748 to 19.0139 and 18.7834 to 18.9339. However, they have similar Mg isotopic compositions (−0.21‰ to +0.06‰ versus −0.24‰ to +0.09‰), which did not originate from fractional crystallization nor source heterogeneity. Based on hornblende/biotite/muscovite dehydration melting reaction and Mg isotopic variations in two-mica granites and leucogranites with the proceeding metamorphism, along with elemental discrimination diagrams, Eocene two-mica granites and Miocene leucogranites could be related to hornblende dehydration melting and muscovite dehydration melting, respectively. Mg isotopic compositions of Eocene two-mica granites become heavier compared to the source because of residues of isotopically light garnet in the source; while those of Miocene leucogranites become lighter because of entrainment of isotopically light garnet from the source region. Thus, a new model for crustal anatexis and Himalayan orogenesis was proposed based on the Mg isotope fractionation in the leucogranites and metamorphic rocks. This model emphasizes a successive process from Indian continental subduction to rapid exhumation of the Higher Himalayan Crystalline Series (HHCS). The former underwent high-temperature (HT) and high-pressure (HP) granulite-facies prograde metamorphism, which resulted in the hornblende dehydration melting and the formation of Eocene two-mica granites; while the latter experienced amphibolite-facies retrogression and decompression, which resulted in the muscovite dehydration melting and the formation of Miocene leucogranites.     

Late Triassic post-collisional granites related to Paleotethyan evolution in northwestern Lao PDR: Geochronological and geochemical evidence

The late Paleozoic to early Mesozoic granites exposed in northwestern Lao PDR provide important constraints on the tectonic evolution of the Eastern Paleotethyan Ocean and regional correlation with the giant granitic belt in Southeast Asia. New geochronological data show that the granites have Late Triassic zircon U–Pb ages of 231–220 Ma. They are dominated by monzogranite and biotite granite with an I-type geochemical affinity. These granites are enriched in LREEs and LILEs and depleted in HFSEs. The geochemical variations for these granites indicate the fractional crystallization of plagioclase, K-feldspar, biotite, apatite, and Fe–Ti oxides. Their initial ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr ratios range from 0.7021 to 0.7105 and ε_Nd (t) values from −1.6 to −7.3. Zircon in-situ ε_Hf (t) values are in range of −6.0–+5.3 (peaks at −2.8 and +2.5, respectively), Hf model ages of 0.67–1.64 Ga (peaks at 0.83 Ga and 1.45 Ga, respectively), and δ¹⁸O values of 6.6‰–8.0‰, similar to the Late Triassic granitoids from the Eastern Province in Southeast Asia. These granites originated from a mixed source of ancient metamorphic rocks with juvenile mafic crust. The Late Triassic granites in northwestern Lao PDR formed in a post-collisional setting in response to the thickened crustal collapse during the assembly of the Sibumasu with Indochina blocks. These granites can southerly link with the Eastern granite province of the Eastern Paleotethyan Domain in Southeast Asia.     

Petrology of an intrusion-related high-grade migmatite: implications for partial melting of metasedimentary rocks and leucosome-forming processes

Intrusion-related migmatites comprise a substantial part of the high-grade part of the southern Damara orogen, Namibia which is dominated by Al-rich metasedimentary rocks and various granites. Migmatites consist of melanosomes with biotite+sillimanite+garnet+cordierite+hercynite and leucosomes are garnet- and cordierite-bearing. Metamorphic grade throughout the area is in the upper amphibolite to lower granulite facies (5–6 kbar at 730–750 °C). Field evidence, petrographic observations, chemical data and mass balance calculations suggest that intrusion of granitic magmas and concomitant partial melting of metasedimentary units were the main processes for the generation of the migmatites. The intruding melts were significantly modified by magma mixing with in situ partial melts, accumulation of mainly feldspar and contamination with garnet from the wall rocks. However, it is suggested that these melts originally represented disequilibrium melts from a metasedimentary protolith. The occurrence of LILE-, HFSE- and LREE-enriched and -depleted residues within the leucosomes implies that both quartzo-feldspathic and pelitic rocks were subjected to partial melting. Isotope ratios of the leucosomes are rather constant (¹⁴³Nd/¹⁴⁴Nd (500 Ma): 0.511718–0.511754, ε Nd (500 Ma): ?3.54 to ?5.11) and Sr (⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr (500 Ma): 0.714119–0.714686), the metasedimentary units have rather constant Nd isotope ratios (¹⁴³Nd/¹⁴⁴Nd (500 Ma): 0.511622–0.511789, ε Nd (500 Ma): ?3.70 to ?6.93) but variable Sr isotope ratios Sr (⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr (500 Ma): 0.713527–0.722268). The most restitic melanosome MEL 4 has a Sr isotopic composition of ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr (500 Ma): 0.729380. Oxygen isotopes do not mirror the proposed contamination process, due to the equally high δ¹⁸O contents of metasediments and crustal melts. However, the most LILE-depleted residue MEL 4 shows the lowest δ¹⁸O value (<10). Mass balance calculations suggest high degrees of partial melting (20–40%). It is concluded that partial melting was promoted by heat transfer and release of a fluid phase from the intruding granites. High degrees of partial melting can be reached as long as the available H₂O, derived from the crystallization of the intruding granites, is efficiently recycled within the rock volume. Due to the limited amounts of in situ melting, it seems likely that such regional migmatite terranes are not the sources for large intrusive granite bodies. The high geothermal gradient inferred from the metamorphic conditions was probably caused by exhumation of deep crustal rocks and contemporaneous intrusion of huge masses of granitoid magmas. The Davetsaub area represents an example of migmatites formed at moderate pressures and high temperatures, and illustrates some of the reactions that may modify leucosome compositions. The area provides constraints on melting processes operating in high-grade metasedimentary rocks.     

Melting of subducted continent: Element and isotopic evidence for a genetic relationship between Neoproterozoic and Mesozoic granitoids in the Sulu orogen

Zircon U-Pb and hornblende Ar-Ar ages, major and trace elements, and Sr, Nd and O isotope compositions of Neoproterozoic and Mesozoic granitoids from the Wulian region in the Sulu orogen of China demonstrate that post-collisional granitoids were generated by Early Cretaceous melting of subduction-thickened continental crust that has geochemical affinities to Neoproterozoic protolith of ultrahigh-pressure metaigneous rocks that were derived from the Yangtze Block. The Mesozoic granitoids share the following features with the Neoproterozoic granites: (1) occurrence of Neoproterozoic U-Pb ages in zircon; (2) strong LREE enrichment but HFSE (Nb, P and Ti) depletion; (3) variable δ¹⁸O values for constituent minerals; (4) significantly negative ε_Nd(t) values with Paleoproterozoic Nd model ages. Thus the two ages of granitoids have a genetic relationship in source nature. However, they differ significantly in both the O isotope composition of zircon and the concentration ratios of fluid-mobile to fluid-immobile elements. These differences are interpreted to reflect differences in the depth of magma sources, and in the nature of subsequent water-rock alteration. The Neoproterozoic granites were derived from hydration melting of Paleoproterozoic crust during breakup of the supercontinent Rodinia at ca. 780 to 740 Ma along the northern margin of the Yangtze Block, with subsequent overprinting of high-T meteoric-hydrothermal alteration and rifting-induced low-¹⁸O magmatism. In contrast, the Mesozoic granitoids were derived from dehydration melting of subduction-thickened crust that was unaffected by meteoric-hydrothermal alteration. The source of the Mesozoic granitoids may be coeval middle-lower crustal counterparts of the Neoproterozoic granites.     

Deducing the source and composition of rare earth mineralising fluids in carbonatites: insights from isotopic (C,O, <Superscript>87</Superscript>Sr/<Superscript>86</Superscript>Sr) data from Kangankunde,Malawi

Carbonatites host some of the largest and highest grade rare earth element (REE) deposits but the composition and source of their REE-mineralising fluids remains enigmatic. Using C, O and ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr isotope data together with major and trace element compositions for the REE-rich Kangankunde carbonatite (Malawi), we show that the commonly observed, dark brown, Fe-rich carbonatite that hosts REE minerals in many carbonatites is decoupled from the REE mineral assemblage. REE-rich ferroan dolomite carbonatites, containing 8–15 wt% REE₂O₃, comprise assemblages of monazite-(Ce), strontianite and baryte forming hexagonal pseudomorphs after probable burbankite. The ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr values (0.70302–0.70307) affirm a carbonatitic origin for these pseudomorph-forming fluids. Carbon and oxygen isotope ratios of strontianite, representing the REE mineral assemblage, indicate equilibrium between these assemblages and a carbonatite-derived, deuteric fluid between 250 and 400 °C (δ¹⁸O + 3 to + 5‰_VSMOW and δ¹³C ? 3.5 to ? 3.2‰_VPDB). In contrast, dolomite in the same samples has similar δ¹³C values but much higher δ¹⁸O, corresponding to increasing degrees of exchange with low-temperature fluids (< 125 °C), causing exsolution of Fe oxides resulting in the dark colour of these rocks. REE-rich quartz rocks, which occur outside of the intrusion, have similar δ¹⁸O and ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr to those of the main complex, indicating both are carbonatite-derived and, locally, REE mineralisation can extend up to 1.5 km away from the intrusion. Early, REE-poor apatite-bearing dolomite carbonatite (beforsite: δ¹⁸O + 7.7 to + 10.3‰ and δ¹³C ?5.2 to ?6.0‰; ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr 0.70296–0.70298) is not directly linked with the REE mineralisation.     

Carbon,oxygen and strontium isotope geochemistry of Proterozoic carbonate rocks of the Vindhyan Basin,central India

Carbon, oxygen and strontium isotope compositions of carbonate rocks of the Proterozoic Vindhyan Supergroup, central India suggest that they can be correlated with the isotope evolution curves of marine carbonates during the latter Proterozoic. The carbonate rocks of the Lower Vindhyan Supergroup from eastern Son Valley and central Vindhyan sections show δ¹³C values of ∼0‰ (V-PDB) and those from Rajasthan section are enriched up to +2.8‰. In contrast, the carbonate rocks of the Upper Vindhyan succession record both positive and negative shifts in δ¹³C compositions. In the central Vindhyan section, the carbonates exhibit positive δ¹³C values up to +5.7‰ and those from Rajasthan show negative values down to –5.2‰. The δ¹⁸O values of most of the carbonate rocks from the Vindhyan Supergroup show a narrow range between –10 and –5‰ (V-PDB) and are similar to the ‘best preserved’ ¹⁸O compositions of the Proterozoic carbonate rocks. In the central Vindhyan and eastern Son Valley sections, carbonates from the Lower Vindhyan exhibit best-preserved ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr compositions of 0.7059±6, which are lower compared to those from Rajasthan (0.7068±4). The carbonates with positive δ¹³C values from Upper Vindhyan are characterized by lower ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr values (0.7068±2) than those with negative δ¹³C values (0.7082±6). A comparison of C and Sr isotope data of carbonate rocks of the Vindhyan Supergroup with isotope evolution curves of the latter Proterozoic along with available geochronological data suggest that the Lower Vindhyan sediments were deposited during the Mesoproterozoic Eon and those from the Upper Vindhyan represent a Neoproterozoic interval of deposition.     

The oxygen isotope composition of Hercynian granites and pre-Hercynian gneisses from the Schwarzwald,SW Germany

The oxygen isotope composition of 56 Hercynian granites and 42 pre-Hercynian gneisses has been investigated. In addition some mineral δ ¹⁸O data and 5 δD values of whole rocks have been obtained. The granites from the N-Schwarzwald show, in general, relatively uniform δ ¹⁸O values between 11.5 and 13.5‰, those from the S-Schwarzwald are less uniform and lighter in ¹⁸O and range from 2.3 to 11.5‰. The gneisses from the pre-Hercynian basement exhibit more or less the same variation and range from 1.7 to 10.4‰. δ ¹⁸O values <6‰ only occur in the S-Schwarzwald and obviously indicate hydrothermal interactions of meteoric waters, which probably took place after the emplacement and solidification of the granites and which equally affected granites and gneisses. Due to the nearly identical ¹⁸O/¹⁶O ratios of S-Schwarzwald granites and gneisses, it is proposed that such gneisses in the pre-Hercynian basement qualify as the precursor rocks of the S-Schwarzwald, granites whereas for the N-Schwarzwald granites crustal rocks with heavier δ ¹⁸O values, unknown from the present surface, have to be postulated. This distribution is also reflected on a ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr-¹⁸O/¹⁶O diagram.     

Origin and geodynamic evolution of Late Paleogene magmatic associations along the Periadriatic–Sava–Vardar magmatic belt

Along the Periadriatic Lineament in the Alps and the Sava–Vardar Zone of the Dinarides and Hellenides, Paleogene magmatic associations form a continuous belt, about 1700 km long. The following magmatic associations occur: (1) Eocene granitoids; (2) Oligocene granitoids including tonalites; (3) Oligocene shoshonite and calc-alkaline volcanics with lamprophyres; (4) Egerian–Eggenburgian (Chattian) calc-alkaline volcanics and granitoids. All of these magmatic associations are constrained by radiometric ages, which indicate that the magmatic activity was mainly restricted to the time span between 55 and 29 Ma. These igneous rocks form, both at surface and in the subsurface, the distinct linear Periadriatic–Sava–Vardar magmatic belt, with three strikes that are controlled by the indentation of Apulia and Moesia and accompanying strike-slip faulting. The geology, seismicity, seismic tomography and magnetic anomalies within this belt suggest that it has been generated in the African–Eurasian suture zone. Based on published analytical data, the petrology, major and trace element contents and Sr, Nd and O isotopic composition of each magmatic association are briefly defined. These data show that Eocene and Oligocene magmatic associations of the Late Paleogene Periadriatic–Sava–Vardar magmatic belt originated along a consuming plate margin. Based on isotopic systems, two main rock groups can be distinguished: (1) ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr = 0.7036–0.7080 and δ¹⁸O = 5.9–7.2‰, indicating basaltic partial melts derived from a continental mantle–lithosphere, and (2) ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr = 0.7090–72131 and δ¹⁸O = 7.3–11.5‰, indicating crustal assimilation and melting. The mantle sources for the primary basalt melts are metasomatized garnet peridotites and/or spinel lherzolites and phlogopite lherzolites of upper mantle wedge origin. The geodynamic evolution of the plutonic and volcanic associations of the Periadriatic–Sava–Vardar magmatic belt was related to the Africa–Eurasia suture zone that was dominated by break-off of the subducted lithospheric slab of Mesozoic oceanic crust, at depths of 90–100 km. This is indicated by their contemporaneity along the 1700 km long belt.     

A-type granites induced by a breaking-off and delamination of the subducted Junggar oceanic plate,West Junggar,Northwest China

The A-type granites with highly positive ε_Nd(t) values in the West Junggar, Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB), have long been perceived as a group formed under the same tectonic and geodynamic setting, magmatic sourceq and petrogenetic model. Geological evidence shows that these granites occurred at two different tectonic units related to the southeastern subduction of Junggar oceanic plate: the Hongshan and Karamay granites emplaced in the southeast of West Junggar in the Baogutu continental arc; whereas the Akebasitao and Miaoergou granites formed in the accretionary prism. Here the authors present new bulk-rock geochemistry and Sr-Nd isotopes, zircon U-Pb ages and Hf-O isotopes data on these granites. The granites in the Baogutu continental arc and accretionary prism contain similar zircon ε_Hf(t) values (+10.9 to +16.2) and bulk-rock geochemical characteristics (high SiO₂ and K₂O contents, enriched LILEs (except Sr), depleted Sr, Ta and Ti, and negative anomalies in Ce and Eu). The Hongshan and Karamay granites in the Baogutu continental arc have older zircon U-Pb ages (315–305 Ma) and moderate ¹⁸O enrichments (δ¹⁸O_zircon=+6.41‰–+7.96‰); whereas the Akebasitao and Miaoergou granites in the accretionary prism have younger zircon U-Pb ages (305–301 Ma) with higher ¹⁸O enrichments (δ¹⁸O_zircon=+8.72‰–+9.89‰). The authors deduce that the elevated ¹⁸O enrichments of the Akebasitao and Miaoergou granites were probably inherited from low-temperature altered oceanic crusts. The Akebasitao and Miaoergou granites were originated from partial melting of low-temperature altered oceanic crusts with juvenile oceanic sediments below the accretionary prism. The Hongshan and Karamay granites were mainly derived from partial melting of basaltic juvenile lower crust with mixtures of potentially chemical weathered ancient crustal residues and mantle basaltic melt (induced by hot intruding mantle basaltic magma at the bottom of the Baogutu continental arc). On the other hand, the Miaoergou charnockite might be sourced from a deeper partial melting reservoir under the accretionary prism, consisting of the low-temperature altered oceanic crust, juvenile oceanic sediments, and mantle basaltic melt. These granites could be related to the asthenosphere’s counterflow and upwelling, caused by the break-off and delamination of the subducted oceanic plate beneath the accretionary prism Baogutu continental arc in a post-collisional tectonic setting.©2022 China Geology Editorial Office.     

Oxygen isotope compositions and magmatic epidote from two contrasting metaluminous granitoids,NE Brazil

Oxygen isotope compositions of mineral separates were determined from two metaluminous granitoids (Emas and São Rafael plutons) from northeastern Brazil. The I-type Emas pluton has high δ¹⁸O (WR) values (11.5–11.8‰), whereas the São Rafael pluton has low δ¹⁸O (WR) values (7.5–8.1‰), but Sr and Nd are characteristics of S-type granitoids. Measured mineral–mineral fractionations suggest continuous sub-solidus inter-mineral isotope exchange among all minerals except zircon. There is a large and consistent quartz–epidote fractionation that gives apparent temperatures that are much lower than anticipated closure temperatures for epidote. Oxygen isotope fractionation between natural zircon and magmatic epidote is opposite to that predicted from theoretical determinations, as δ¹⁸O (epidote) <δ¹⁸O (zircon). An empirical calibration based on these results would suggests a closure T for oxygen in epidote of ~500 °C and Δ(qtz–epi) ~5.19 at 500 °C.