Formation of gold–silver sulfides and native gold in Fe–Ag–Au–S system

We carried out experiments on crystallization of Fe-containing melts FeS₂Ag_0.1–0.1xAu_0.1x (x = 0.05, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.8) with Ag/Au weight ratios from 10 to 0.1. Mixtures prepared from elements in corresponding proportions were heated in evacuated quartz ampoules to 1050 ºC and kept at this temperature for 12 h; then they were cooled to 150 ºC, annealed for 30 days, and cooled to room temperature. The solid-phase products were studied by optical and electron microscopy and X-ray spectroscopy. The crystallization products were mainly from iron sulfides: monoclinic pyrrhotite (Fe_0.47S_0.53 or Fe₇S₈) and pyrite (Fe_0.99S_2.01). Gold–silver sulfides (low-temperature modifications) are present in all synthesized samples. Depending on Ag/Au, the following sulfides are produced: acanthite (Ag/Au = 10), solid solutions Ag_2–xAu_xS (Ag/Au = 10, 2), uytenbogaardtite (Ag/Au = 2, 0.75), and petrovskaite (Ag/Au = 0.75, 0.12). They contain iron impurities (up to 3.3 wt.%). Xenomorphic micro- (<1–5 μm) and macrograins (5–50 μm) of Au–Ag sulfides are localized in pyrite or between the grains of pyrite and pyrrhotite. High-fineness gold was detected in the samples with initial ratio Ag/Au ≤ 2. It is present as fine and large rounded microinclusions or as intergrowths with Au–Ag sulfides in pyrite or, more seldom, at the boundary of pyrite and pyrrhotite grains. This gold contains up to 5.7 wt.% Fe. Based on the sample textures and phase relations, a sequence of their crystallization was determined. At ~1050 ºC, there are probably iron sulfide melt L₁ (Fe,S ? Ag,Au), gold–silver sulfide melt L₂ (Au,Ag,S ? Fe), and liquid sulfur L_S. On cooling, melt L₁ produces pyrrhotite; further cooling leads to the crystallization of high-fineness gold (macrograins from L₁ and micrograins from L₂) and Au–Ag sulfides (micrograins from L₁ and macrograins from L₂). Pyrite crystallizes after gold–silver sulfides by the peritectic reaction FeS + L_S = FeS₂ at ~743 ºC. Elemental sulfur is the last to crystallize. Gold–silver sulfides are stable and dominate over native gold and silver, especially in pyrite-containing ores with high Ag/Au ratios.     

Synthetic Gold Chalcogenides in the Au–Te–Se–S System and Their Natural Analogs

Doklady Earth Sciences - Quaternary chalcogenides of AuX (AuTe0.7Se0.2S0.1), Au3X10 (Au3Te6Se3S, Au3Te6Se2.5S1.5), and AuX2 (AuTe1.8Se0.2, AuTe1.8Se0.1S0.1) composition were synthesized for the...     

Genesis of the Au–Bi–Cu–As, Cu–Mo ± W, and base–metal Au–Ag mineralization at the Mountain Freegold (Yukon, Canada): constraints from Ar–Ar and Re–Os geochronology and Pb and stable isotope compositions

The genesis of mineralized systems across the Mountain Freegold area, in the Dawson Range Cu–Au?±?Mo Belt of the Tintina Au province was constrained using Pb and stable isotope compositions and Ar–Ar and Re–Os geochronology. Pb isotope compositions of sulfides span a wide compositional range (²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁴Pb, 18.669–19.861; ²⁰⁸Pb/²⁰⁴Pb, 38.400–39.238) that overlaps the compositions of the spatially associated igneous rocks, thus indicating a magmatic origin for Pb and probably the other metals. Sulfur isotopic compositions of sulfide minerals are broadly similar and their δ³⁴S (Vienna-Canyon Diablo Troilite (V-CDT)) values range from ?1.4 to 3.6 ‰ consistent with the magmatic range, with the exception of stibnite from a Au–Sb–quartz vein, which has δ³⁴S values between ?8.1 and ?3.1 ‰. The δ³⁴S values of sulfates coexisting with sulfide are between 11.2 and 14.2 ‰; whereas, those from the weathering zone range from 3.7 to 4.3 ‰, indicating supergene sulfates derived from oxidation of hypogene sulfides. The δ¹³C (Vienna Peedee Belemnite (VPDB)) values of carbonate range from ?4.9 to 1.1 ‰ and are higher than magmatic values. The δ¹⁸O (V-SMOW) values of magmatic quartz phenocrysts and magmatic least-altered rocks vary between 6.2 and 10.1 ‰ and between 5.0 and 10.1 ‰, respectively, whereas altered magmatic rocks and hydrothermal minerals (quartz and magnetite) are relatively ¹⁸O-depleted (4.2 to 7.9 ‰ and ?6.3 to 1.5 ‰, respectively). Hydrogen isotope compositions of both least-altered and altered igneous rock samples are D-depleted (from ?133 to ?161 ‰ Vienna-Standard Mean Ocean Water (V-SMOW)), consistent with differential magma degassing and/or post-crystallization exchange between the rocks and meteoric ground water. Zircon from a chlorite-altered dike has a U–Pb crystallization age of 108.7?±?0.4 Ma; whereas, the same sample yielded a whole-rock Ar–Ar plateau age of 76.25?±?0.53 Ma. Likewise, molybdenite Re–Os model ages range from 75.8 to 78.2 Ma, indicating the mineralizing events are genetically related to Late Cretaceous volcano-plutonic intrusions in the area. The molybdenite Re–Os ages difference between the nearby Nucleus (75.9?±?0.3 to 76.2?±?0.3 Ma) and Revenue (77.9?±?0.3 to 78.2?±?0.3 Ma) mineral occurrences suggests an episodic mineralized system with two pulses of hydrothermal fluids separated by at least 2 Ma. This, in combination with geological features suggest the Nucleus deposit represents the apical and younger portion of the Revenue–Nucleus magmatic-hydrothermal system and may suggest an evolution from the porphyry to the epithermal environments.     

The relation between Cu/Au ratio and formation depth of porphyry-style Cu–Au ± Mo deposits

Constraints on gold and copper ore grades in porphyry-style Cu–Au ± Mo deposits are re-examined, with particular emphasis on published fluid pressure and formation depth as indicated by fluid inclusion data and geological reconstruction. Defining an arbitrary subdivision at a molar Cu/Au ratio of 4.0 × 10⁴, copper–gold deposits have a shallower average depth of formation (2.1 km) compared with the average depth of copper–molybdenum deposits (3.7 km), based on assumed lithostatic fluid pressure from microthermometry. The correlation of Cu/Au ratio with depth is primarily influenced by the variations of total Au grade. Despite local mineralogical controls within some ore deposits, the overall Cu/Au ratio of the deposits does not show a significant correlation with the predominant type of Cu–Fe sulfide, i.e., chalcopyrite or bornite. Primary magma source probably contributes to metal endowment on the province scale and in some individual deposits, but does not explain the broad correlation of metal ratios with the pressure of ore formation. By comparison with published experimental and fluid analytical data, the observed correlation of the Cu/Au ratio with fluid pressure can be explained by dominant transport of Cu and Au in a buoyant S-rich vapor, coexisting with minor brine in two-phase magmatic hydrothermal systems. At relatively shallow depth (approximately <3 km), the solubility of both metals decreases rapidly with decreasing density of the ascending vapor plume, forcing both Cu and Au to be coprecipitated. In contrast, magmatic vapor cooling at deeper levels (approximately >3 km) and greater confining pressure is likely to precipitate copper ± molybdenum only, while sulfur-complexed gold remains dissolved in the relatively dense vapor. Upon cooling, this vapor may ultimately contract to a low-salinity epithermal liquid, which can contribute to the formation of epithermal gold deposits several kilometers above the Au-poor porphyry Cu–(Mo) deposit. These findings and interpretations imply that petrographic inspection of fluid inclusion density may be used as an exploration indicator. Low-pressure brine + vapor systems are favorable for coprecipitation of both metals, leading to Au-rich porphyry–copper–gold deposits. Epithermal gold deposits may be associated with such shallow systems, but are likely to derive their ore-forming components from a deeper source, which may include a deeply hidden porphyry–copper ± molybdenum deposit. Exposed high-pressure brine + vapor systems, or stockwork veins containing a single type of intermediate-density inclusions, are more likely to be prospective for porphyry–copper ± molybdenum deposits.     

Chemical composition of rock-forming minerals in granitoids associated with Au–Bi–Cu,Cu–Mo,and Au–Ag mineralization at the Freegold Mountain,Yukon, Canada: magmatic and hydrothermal fluid chemistry and petrogenetic implications

The chemical compositions of rock-forming minerals have been determined for both altered and least-altered igneous rocks spatially associated with numerous mineralized zones (Nucleus Au–Bi–Cu–As deposit, Revenue Au ± Cu and Stoddart Cu–Mo ± W mineral occurrences, and Laforma Au–Ag deposit) across the Freegold Mountain area, Yukon, Canada. Within the study area, K-feldspar has a narrow compositional range (89.4–91% Or), whereas plagioclase spans a wide range (4.4–70.07% An). In all of the investigated samples, T _Ab = T _An = T _Or, suggesting that magmatic equilibrium between the coexisting plagioclase and K-feldspar was maintained. Igneous amphibole phenocrysts from hypabyssal dikes are typically calcic, whereas the Stoddart Cu–Mo ± W, Laforma Au–Ag, and Goldy Au mineralization are associated with Mg-enriched primary amphibole of edenite composition, and Au–Bi–Cu–As mineralization from Nucleus is related to Al-enriched primary amphibole of ferropargasite composition. Primary biotite phenocrysts across the Freegold Mountain area re-equilibrated with oxidized magma (f(O₂) values between 10–13 and 10–11.5 bars, lying between the Ni/NiO and the magnetite/haematite buffers). However, biotite and amphibole phenocrysts from Stoddart, Goldy, Laforma, and the Highway zones crystallized from a more oxidized magma, as indicated by their elevated X _Mg up to 0.65, relative to biotite and hornblende from Nucleus and Revenue characterized by a lower X _Mg (typically < 0.50). This suggests that various sources and (or) rapid emplacement were involved in magma genesis, as further supported by the considerable variation of pressure (1.8–7.3 kb) of amphibole crystallization and of the total Al content in least-altered biotite (2.6–2.9 afu) within the Freegold Mountain area. Biotite and apatite equilibrated within the T range of 520–780°C, consistent with temperatures of equilibration between ilmenite and magnetite, and their compositions indicate that they formed from an oxidized I-type magma. Magma differentiated by fractional crystallization (indicated by the presence of normally zoned plagioclase with Ca-rich cores and Na-enriched outer rims) and multiple magma mixing (supported by the presence of reversed zoned plagioclase and coexistence of normally and reversely zoned plagioclase). Lower X _Mg biotite associated with the mineralized (Cu–Mo ± W) potassic alteration incorporated more F and Cl relative to least-altered biotite with higher X _Mg. In both Nucleus and Revenue Au–Cu mineralizations, secondary biotite composition varies with respect to the associated alteration mineral assemblages. Although secondary biotite in the skarn re-equilibrated with F-poor fluids, secondary biotite from the pervasive biotitization is related to F- and Cl-enriched fluids, and secondary biotite from the phyllitic zone is related to F-, Cl-, and Mg-depleted fluids, thus consistent with a change in mineralizing fluid composition during mineralization.     

Tectono-metallogenic settings of the formation and convergence of disseminated Au–sulfide mineralization

Large Au-sulfide deposits (GSDs) of disseminated ores occur worldwide in metallogenic provinces of various ages (from Precambrian to Pliocene). The studies performed showed that the great genetic diversity of GSD is determined by the similar oregenesis conditions that appear in different tectono-metallogenic settings (TMSs). A GSD is included in a certain TMS by the respective changes in the mineral and geochemical assemblages of ores. However, in the majority of cases, the GSDs of different TMSs are convergent (quasi-identical) in the texture, structure, and mineral composition of ores. All types of the above TMSs are found in Russia, which allows forecasting the discovery of new GSDs in each setting.     

The Sin Quyen Cu–Fe–Au–REE deposit (northern Vietnam): composition and formation conditions

The Sin Quyen Cu–Fe–Au–REE deposit is localized in the Proterozoic deposits of the Phan Xi Pang zone, northern Vietnam. The mineralization is formed by lenticular and sheet-like bodies occurring concordantly with the host rocks. Seventeen orebodies have been recognized in the deposit, which form an ore horizon up to 140 m in total thickness, about 2 km in strike, and up to 350 m in dip. The ores are of simple mineral composition: Au-rich copper and iron sulfides (chalcopyrite, pyrite, pyrrhotite) and iron oxides (magnetite, hematite). Gold and silver are distributed unevenly in the ores: Their contents vary from hundredths and tenths of ppm to 1.8 ppm. Copper sulfide ores are the main concentrator of gold and silver. All ores are characterized by high REE contents, tens and hundreds of times exceeding the element clarkes. The highest contents have been revealed for Ce and La. Orthite is the main carrier of REE. No correlation between REE and ore elements of sulfide-oxide ores has been revealed, which points to the independent formation of the mineralization. Orebodies together with the host rocks underwent metamorphism at 500–600 to 630–685 °C and 3–7 kbar. The spatial association of the mineralization with amphibolites (metamorphosed basites) and the mineral composition of ores suggest that the Sin Quyen deposit is of Cyprian volcanogenic type.     

Re–Os and U–Pb geochronology of the Duobaoshan porphyry Cu–Mo–(Au) deposit,northeast China,and its geological significance

The large-scale Duobaoshan porphyry Cu–Mo–(Au) deposit is located at the north segment of the Da Hinggan Mountains, northeast China. Six molybdenite samples from the Duobaoshan deposit were selected for Re–Os isotope measurement to define the mineralization age of the deposit, yieldings a Re–Os isochron age of 475.9 ± 7.9 Ma (2σ), which is accordant with the Re–Os model ages of 476.6 ± 6.9–480.2 ± 6.9 Ma. This age is consistent with the age of the related granodiorite porphyry, which was dated as 477.2 ± 4 Ma by zircon U–Pb analysis using LA-ICP-MS. These ages disagree with the previous K–Ar age determinations that suggest a correlation of intrusive rocks of the Duobaoshan area with the Hercynian intrusive rocks of Carboniferous–Permian age. These ages demonstrate that the Duobaoshan granodiorite porphyry and related Cu–Mo deposit occurred in the Early Ordovician. The rhenium content of molybdenite varies from 290.9 to 728.2 μg/g, with an average content of 634.8 μg/g. The high rhenium content in molybdenite of the Duobaoshan deposit suggests that the ore-forming materials may be mainly of mantle source.     

Contrasting fluids and reservoirs in the contiguous Marcona and Mina Justa iron oxide–Cu (–Ag–Au) deposits,south-central Perú

The Marcona–Mina Justa deposit cluster, hosted by Lower Paleozoic metaclastic rocks and Middle Jurassic shallow marine andesites, incorporates the most important known magnetite mineralization in the Andes at Marcona (1.9 Gt at 55.4% Fe and 0.12% Cu) and one of the few major iron oxide–copper–gold (IOCG) deposits with economic Cu grades (346.6 Mt at 0.71% Cu, 3.8 g/t Ag and 0.03 g/t Au) at Mina Justa. The Middle Jurassic Marcona deposit is centred in Ica Department, Perú, and the Lower Cretaceous Mina Justa Cu (Ag, Au) prospect is located 3–4 km to the northeast. New fluid inclusion studies, including laser ablation time-of-flight inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-TOF-ICPMS) analysis, integrated with sulphur, oxygen, hydrogen and carbon isotope analyses of minerals with well-defined paragenetic relationships, clarify the nature and origin of the hydrothermal fluid responsible for these contiguous but genetically contrasted deposits. At Marcona, early, sulphide-free stage M-III magnetite–biotite–calcic amphibole assemblages are inferred to have crystallized from a 700–800°C Fe oxide melt with a δ¹⁸O value from +5.2‰ to +7.7‰. Stage M-IV magnetite–phlogopite–calcic amphibole–sulphide assemblages were subsequently precipitated from 430–600°C aqueous fluids with dominantly magmatic isotopic compositions (δ³⁴S = +0.8‰ to +5.9‰; δ¹⁸O = +9.6‰ to +12.2‰; δD = −73‰ to −43‰; and δ¹³C = −3.3‰). Stages M-III and M-IV account for over 95% of the magnetite mineralization at Marcona. Subsequent non-economic, lower temperature sulphide–calcite–amphibole assemblages (stage M-V) were deposited from fluids with similar δ³⁴S (+1.8‰ to +5.0‰), δ¹⁸O (+10.1‰ to +12.5‰) and δ¹³C (−3.4‰), but higher δD values (average −8‰). Several groups of lower (<200°C, with a mode at 120°C) and higher temperature (>200°C) fluids can be recognized in the main polymetallic (Cu, Zn, Pb) sulphide stage M-V and may record the involvement of modified seawater. At Mina Justa, early magnetite–pyrite assemblages precipitated from a magmatic fluid (δ³⁴S = +0.8‰ to +3.9‰; δ¹⁸O = +9.5‰ to +11.5‰) at 540–600°C, whereas ensuing chalcopyrite–bornite–digenite–chalcocite–hematite–calcite mineralization was the product of non-magmatic, probably evaporite-sourced, brines with δ³⁴S ≥ +29‰, δ¹⁸O = 0.1‰ and δ¹³C = −8.3‰. Two groups of fluids were involved in the Cu mineralization stage: (1) Ca-rich, low-temperature (approx. 140°C) and high-salinity, plausibly a basinal brine and (2) Na (–K)-dominant with a low-temperature (approx. 140°C) and low-salinity probably meteoric water. LA-TOF-ICPMS analyses show that fluids at the magnetite–pyrite stage were Cu-barren, but that those associated with external fluids in later stages were enriched in Cu and Zn, suggesting such fluids could have been critical for the economic Cu mineralization in Andean IOCG deposits.     

Mineralization and fluid evolution of the Jiyuan polymetallic Cu–Ag–Pb–Zn–Au deposit,eastern Tianshan,NW China

The newly discovered Jiyuan Cu–Ag–(Pb–Zn–Au) deposit is located in the southern section of the eastern Tianshan orogenic belt, Xinjiang, northwestern China. It is the first documented deposit in the large Aqikekuduke Ag–Cu–Au belt in the eastern Tianshan orogen. Detailed field observations, parageneses, and fluid inclusion studies suggest an epithermal ore genesis for the main Cu–Ag mineralization, accompanied by a complicated hydrothermal alteration history most likely associated with the multi-stage tectonic evolution of the eastern Tianshan. The Jiyuan Cu–Ag ore bodies are located along the EW-striking, south-dipping Aqikekuduke fault and are hosted by Precambrian marble and intercalated siliceous rocks. Early-stage skarn alteration occurred along the contact zone between the marble layers and Early Carboniferous diorite–granodiorite and monzogranite intrusions; the skarns are characterized by diopside–tremolite–andradite–pyrite–(magnetite) assemblages. Local REE-enriched synchysite–rutile–arsenopyrite–(clinochlorite–microcline–albite) assemblages are related to K–Na alteration associated with the monzogranite intrusions and formed under conditions of high temperature (310°C) and high salinity (19.9 wt.% NaCl). Subsequent hydrothermal alteration produced a series of quartz and calcite veins that precipitated from medium- to low-temperature saline fluids. These include early ‘smoky’ quartz veins (190°C; 3.0 wt.% NaCl) that are commonly barren, coarse-grained Cu–Ag mineralized quartz veins (210°C; 2.4 wt.% NaCl), and late-stage unmineralized calcite veins (140°C; 1.1 wt.% NaCl). Tremolite and Ca-rich scapolite veins formed at an interval between early and mineralized quartz veins, indicating a high-temperature, high-salinity (>500°C; 9.5 wt.% NaCl) Ca alteration stage. Fluid mixing may have played an important role during Cu–Ag mineralization and an external low-temperature Ca-rich fluid is inferred to have evolved in the ore-forming system. The Jiyuan auriferous quartz veins possess fluid characteristics distinct from those of the Cu–Ag mineralized quartz veins. CO₂-rich fluid inclusions, fluid boiling, and mixing all demonstrate that these auriferous quartz veins acted as hosts for the orogenic-type gold mineralization, a common feature in the Tianshan orogenic belt.     

Heavy metal contamination of soils and waters in and around the Imcheon Au–Ag mine,Korea

The heavy metal contamination of soils and waters by metalliferous mining activities in an area of Korea was studied. In the study area of the Imcheon Au–Ag mine, soils and waters were sampled and analyzed using AAS for Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn. Analysis of HCO₃⁻, F⁻, NO₃⁻ and SO₄²⁻ in water samples was also undertaken by ion chromatography. Elevated concentrations of the metals were found in tailings. The maximum contents in the tailings were 9.4, 229, 6160 and 1640 mg/kg extracted by aqua regia and 1.35, 26.4, 70.3 and 410 mg/kg extracted by 0.1 N HCl solution for Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn, respectively. These metals are continuously dispersed downstream and downslope from the tailings by clastic movement through wind and water. Because of the existence of sulfides in the tailings, a water sample taken on the tailings site was very acidic with a pH of 2.2, with high total dissolved solids (TDS) of 1845 mg/l and electric conductivity (EC) of 3820 μS/cm. This sample also contained up to 0.27, 1.90, 2.80, 53.4, 4,700 mg/l of Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn and SO₄²⁻, respectively. TDS, EC and concentrations of metals in waters decreased with distance from the tailings. The total amount of pulverized limestone needed for neutralizing the acid tailings was estimated to be 46 metric tons, assuming its volume of 45,000 m³ and its bulk density of 1855 kg/m³.     

Experimental modeling of Au and Pt coupled transport by chloride hydrothermal fluids at 350–450°C and 500–1000 bar

The coupled solubility of Au_(cr) and Pt_(cr) has been measured in acidic chloride solutions at 350–450°С and 0.5 and 1 kb using the autoclave technique with determination of dissolved metal contents after quenching. The constants of the reaction combining the dominant species of Au and Pt in high-temperature hydrothermal fluids (K_(Au–Pt)) have been determined: 2 Au_(cr) + PtCl₄^2- = Pt_(cr) + 2AuCl₂^-; log K_(Au–Pt) =–1.02 ± 0.25 (450°С, 1 kb), 0.09 ± 0.15 (450°С, 0.5 kb), and –1.31 ± 0.20 (350°С, 1 kb). It has been established that the factors affecting the Au/Pt concentration ratio in hydrothermal fluids and precipitated ores are temperature, pressure, redox potential, and sulfur fugacity. An increase in temperature results in an increase in the Au/Pt concentration ratio (up to ~550°С at P = 1 kb). A decrease in pressure and redox potential leads to enrichment of fluid in Au. An increase in sulfur fugacity in the stability field of Pt sulfides results in increase in the Au/Pt concentration ratio. Native platinum is replaced by sulfide mineral in low-temperature systems enriched in Pt (relative to Au).     

Structure of the Outokumpu ore district and ophiolite-hosted Cu–Co–Zn–Ni–Ag–Au sulfide deposits revealed from 3D modeling and 2D high-resolution seismic reflection data

The Outokumpu district within the North Karelia Schist Belt in eastern Finland hosts a number of Cu–Co–Zn–Ni–Ag–Au sulfide deposits that are associated with Palaeoproterozoic ophiolitic metaserpentinites derived from depleted mantle peridotites that were subsequently tectonically interleaved with allochthonous metaturbidites. The metaperidotites have been extensively metasomatized to quartz–carbonate–calc–silicate rocks of the Outokumpu assemblage. The Outokumpu area has been affected by a multiple-phase tectonic history comprising various phases of folding and shearing followed by several faulting events. Future exploration has to expand the search into deeper areas and requires knowledge of the subsurface geology. In order to unravel the complex structure 3D geologic models of different scales have been built using a variety of information including geological aeromagnetic and gravity maps, digital terrain models, and mine cross sections as well as data like drill core logs combined with observations from underground mine galleries, structural measurements, aeromagnetic data, and seismic surveys. For crustal structures, data from seismic surveys lines have been reprocessed for our purpose. Both deposit-scale and regional-scale models allow the reconstruction of a sequence of structural events. The mined ore has formed during remobilization of a proto-ore and is closely related to shear zones (thrusts) that truncate the Outokumpu assemblage. Later faults dismembered the ore explaining the variable depth of the different ore bodies along the Outokumpu ore zone. On larger scale at least four km-scale thrust sheets, separated by major listric shear zones can be identified in the ore belt, which are internally further imbricated by subordinate shear zones. These thrusts separate a number of lens-shape metaperidotite bodies that are probably surrounded by Outokumpu assemblage rocks. Thrust stacking was followed by at least three stages of faulting that divided the ore belt into fault-bounded blocks with heterogeneous displacements: (i) faulting along NW-dipping faults with unresolved kinematics, (ii) reverse faulting along c. 50°–60° SE-dipping faults, and (iii) SW–NE to SSW–NNE striking faults which may have formed at an earlier stage and have been reactivated.The specific Outokumpu alteration assemblage around metaperidotite bodies combined with shear zones acting as path ways for fluids are the main vectors to mineralization. Seismic reflection data do not provide a simple tool to directly detect the sites of Outokumpu assemblage bodies at depth but they identify strong reflector zones which are characteristic for though not exclusive to the assemblage, shear zones can be recognized as curved dislocations in the seismic lines. Our study shows that 3D modeling, when used in combination with surface geology and other geophysical data and good knowledge about the structural evolution clearly improves the interpretation of reflectors and enables the identification of strong reflector packages as Outokumpu assemblage that, due to absent geological control, have first been mapped as “unknown reflector”. It thus enhances the chances for locating potentially economic horizons at depth and to delineate target areas for detailed exploration.     

Geological,fluid inclusion and isotopic studies of the Yinshan Cu–Au–Pb–Zn–Ag deposit,South China: Implications for ore genesis and exploration

The Yinshan Cu–Au–Pb–Zn–Ag deposit is located in Dexing, South China. Ore bodies are primarily hosted in low-grade phyllite of the Neoproterozoic Shuangqiaoshan Group along EW- and NNW-striking fault zones. Pb–Zn–Ag mineralization is dictated by Jurassic rhyolitic quartz porphyries (ca. 172 Ma), whereas Cu–Au mineralization is associated with Jurassic dacite porphyries (ca. 170 Ma). The main ore minerals are pyrite, chalcopyrite, galena, sphalerite, tetrahedrite–tennatite, gold, silver, and silver sulphosalt, and the principal gangue minerals are quartz, sericite, calcite, and chlorite. Two-phase liquid-rich (type I), two-phase vapor-rich (type II), and halite-bearing (type III) fluid inclusions can be observed in the hydrothermal quartz-sulfides veins. Type I inclusions are widespread and have homogenization temperatures of 187–303 °C and salinities of 4.2–9.5 wt.% NaCl equivalent in the Pb–Zn–Ag mineralization, and homogenization temperatures of 196–362 °C and salinities of 3.5–9.9 wt.% NaCl equivalent in the Cu–Au mineralization. The pervasive occurrence of type I fluid inclusions with low-moderate temperatures and salinities implies that the mineralizing fluids formed in epithermal environments. The type II and coexisting type III inclusions, from deeper levels below the Cu–Au ore bodies, share similar homogenization temperatures of 317–448 °C and contrasting salinities of 0.2–4.2 and 30.9–36.8 wt.% NaCl equivalent, respectively, which indicates that boiling processes occurred. The sulfur isotopic compositions of sulfides (δ³⁴S = −1.7‰ to +3.2‰) suggest a homogeneous magmatic sulfur source. The lead isotopes of sulfides (²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁴Pb = 18.01–18.07; ²⁰⁷Pb/²⁰⁴Pb = 15.55–15.57; and ²⁰⁸Pb/²⁰⁴Pb = 38.03–38.12) are consistent with those of volcanic–subvolcanic rocks (²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁴Pb = 18.03–18.10; ²⁰⁷Pb/²⁰⁴Pb = 15.56–15.57; and ²⁰⁸Pb/²⁰⁴Pb = 38.02–38.21), indicating a magmatic origin for lead in the ore. The oxygen and hydrogen isotope compositions (δ¹⁸O = +7.8‰ to +10.5‰, δD = −66‰ to −42‰) of inclusion water in quartz imply that ore-forming fluids were mainly derived from magmatic sources. The local boiling process beneath the epithermal Cu–Au ore-forming system indicates the possibility that porphyry-style ore bodies may exist at even deeper zones.     

Origin of epithermal Ag–Au–Cu–Pb–Zn mineralization in Guanajuato, Mexico

The Guanajuato epithermal district is one of the largest silver producers in Mexico. Mineralization occurs along three main vein systems trending dominantly northwest–southeast: the central Veta Madre, the La Luz system to the northwest, and the Sierra system to the east. Mineralization consists dominantly of silver sulfides and sulfosalts, base metal sulfides (mostly chalcopyrite, galena, sphalerite, and pyrite), and electrum. There is a broad zonation of metal distribution, with up to 10 % Cu+Pb+Zn in the deeper mines along the northern and central portions of the Veta Madre. Ore occurs in banded veins and breccias and as stockworks, with gangue composed dominantly of quartz and calcite. Host rocks are Mesozoic sedimentary and intrusive igneous rocks and Tertiary volcanic rocks. Most fluid inclusion homogenization temperatures are between 200 and 300 °C, with salinities below 4 wt.% NaCl equivalent. Fluid temperature and salinity decreased with time, from 290 to 240 °C and from 2.5 to 1.1 wt.% NaCl equivalent. Relatively constant fluid inclusion liquid-to-vapor ratios and a trend of decreasing salinity with decreasing temperature and with increasing time suggest dilution of the hydrothermal solutions. However, evidence of boiling (such as quartz and calcite textures and the presence of adularia) is noted along the Veta Madre, particularly at higher elevations. Fluid inclusion and mineralogical evidence for boiling of metal-bearing solutions is found in gold-rich portions of the eastern Sierra system; this part of the system is interpreted as the least eroded part of the district. Oxygen, carbon, and sulfur isotope analysis of host rocks, ore, and gangue minerals and fluid inclusion contents indicate a hydrothermal fluid, with an initial magmatic component that mixed over time with infiltrating meteoric water and underwent exchange with host rocks. Mineral deposition was a result of decreasing activities of sulfur and oxygen, decreasing temperature, increasing pH, and, in places, boiling.     

Visible and “invisible” forms of gold and silver in the crystallization products of melts in the Fe–S–Ag–Au system: experimental data

The forms of Au and Ag occurrence in the crystallization products of melts in the Fe–S–Ag–Au system depending on the proportions of Fe/S and Ag/Au have been studied at (Fe + S)/(Ag + Au) = 0.1. It is shown that the S-rich systems with S/Fe = 2 contain Au–Ag sulfides and Au–Ag alloys. The systems depleted in S with S/Fe = 1 contain only Au–Ag alloys. The results of XPS provide evidence for the sulfide and metallic components of Au and Ag among the crystallization products of melts in the system studied at S/Fe = 2 and a metallic component with S/Fe = 1. According to the data of electron microprobe analysis, the content of “invisible” forms of noble metals in pyrite and pyrrhotite is < 0.024 wt % for Au and <0.030 wt % for Ag; the contents of “invisible” Au and Ag in troilites are 0.040 ± 0.013 wt % Au and 0.079 ± 0.016 wt % Ag.     

Petrogenesis and Mineralization of the Tongshan Skarn Cu–Au Deposit, Lower Yangtze Metallogenic Belt

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Epigenetic Alteration of Cupreous Gold in the Au–Ag–Cu–Pd Exsolution Texture

Doklady Earth Sciences - The exsolution texture of the Au–Ag–Cu–Pt solid solution is represented by numerous lamellae of cupreous gold in the Ag–Au–Pd matrix. On...     

Palaeozoic porphyry Cu–Au and ultramafic Cu–Ni deposits in the eastern Tianshan orogenic belt: temporal constraints from U–Pb geochronology

During late Palaeozoic time, extensive magmatism and associated ore deposits were developed in the eastern Tianshan orogenic belt (ETOB), Northwest China, which is part of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. To understand the petrogenesis of the intrusions in this area, we performed in situ zircon U–Pb and Hf isotopic analyses on the Tuwu–Yandong (TW–YD) stocks and the Xianshan, Hulu, Luodong, and Poshi batholiths. Two major suites of intrusive rocks have been recognized in the ETOB: (1) 338–339 Ma plagiogranite porphyries and 265–300 Ma ultramafic and mafic rocks, of which the former are associated with 323 Ma porphyry Cu–Mo deposits and have enriched radiogenic Hf isotopic compositions (?_Hf(t) = +11.5 to +15.6), which were derived from a depleted mantle source, whereas the latter are associated with 265–300 Ma magmatic Ni–Cu deposits and have variable Hf isotopic compositions (?_Hf(t) = ?10.3 to +14.3), indicating an origin via the hybridization of depleted mantle magma and variable amounts of ancient lower-crustal components. The proposed magma sources, combined with the geochemical differences between these two suites of intrusive rocks, indicate that in the lower to middle Carboniferous, a N-dipping subduction zone beneath the Dananhu arc triggered the emplacement of granitic porphyries in the Tousuquan and Dananhu island arc belt in the east Tianshan, leading to the formation of the TW and YD porphyry Cu–Mo deposits. In the Upper Carboniferous to Lower Permian, large mafic–ultramafic complexes were emplaced during the closure of the ancient Tianshan Ocean, resulting in the formation of several magmatic Cu–Ni sulphide deposits.