Genetic Nature of Mineralization with Native and Intermetallic Compounds in the Bobruisk Ring Structure (Republic of Belarus)

The results of study of the Bobruisk ring structure (Republic of Belarus) containing ~80 rare rockforming and accessory minerals are reported. Among them are native (Fe, Cu, Sn, Zn, Pb, Ag, Mo, W, Al) and intermetallic (Fe, Cr, Ni, Mo, B, N, C, Si) compounds, natural alloys (Fe–Cr, Fe–Cr–Mo–W–B; brass (Cu–Zn–Pb); and bronze (Sn–Pb–Zn–Cu)). They are observed as segregations of various shapes and sizes, as well as their aggregates. The formation of mineralization is controlled by reduced mantle fluids enriched in H₂, CH₄, CO, Si, N, and O and stimulating accumulation of rare elements as native and intermetallic phases, alloys, rather than isomorphic impurities in minerals.     

Environmental contamination of trace elements in the vicinity of Okpara coal mine, Enugu, Southeastern Nigeria

Water, sediment, and mine spoil samples were collected within the vicinity of the Okpara coal mine in Enugu, Southeastern Nigeria, and analyzed for trace elements using ICP-MS to assess the level of environmental contamination by these elements. The results obtained show that the mine spoils and sediments are relatively enriched in Fe, with mean values of 1,307.8(mg/kg) for mine spoils and 94.15% for sediments. As, Cd, Cr, Mn,Ni, Pb, and Zn in the sediments were found to be enriched relative to the mean values obtained from the study area, showing contamination by these elements. The mean values of Fe, Mn, Cu, and Cr in the mine spoils and mean values of Fe, Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni, Cr, and Mn in sediments, respectively, are above the background values obtained from coal and shale in the study area, indicating enrichment with these elements. The water and sediments are moderately acidic, with mean pH values of 4.22?±?1.06 and 4.66?±?1.35, respectively. With the exception of Fe, Mn, and Ni, all other elements are within the Nigerian water quality standard and WHO limits for drinking water and other domestic purposes. The strong to moderate positive correlation between Fe and Cu (r?=?0.72), Fe and Zn (r?=?0.88), and Fe and As (r?=?0.60) at p?<?0.05 as obtained for the sediments depict the scavenging effect of Fe on these mobile elements. As also shows a strong positive correlation with Mn (r?=?≥ 0.70, p?<?0.05), indicating that Mn plays a major role in scavenging elements that are not co-precipitated with Fe. In water, the strong positive correlation observed between Cr and Cd (r?=?1.00), Cu and Ni (r?=?0.94), Pb and Cu (r?=?0.87) and Zn and Cu (r?=?0.99); Ni and Pb (r?=?0.83) and Zn and Ni (r?=?0.97); and between Pb and Zn (0.84) at p?<?0.05 may indicate similar element–water reaction control on the system due to similarities in chemical properties as well as a common source. Elevated levels of heavy metals in sediments relative to surface water probably imply that sorption and co-precipitation on Al and Fe oxides are more effective in the mobilization and attenuation of heavy metals in the mine area than acid-induced dissolution. The level of concentration of trace elements for the mine spoils will serve as baseline data for future reference in the study area.     

Partitioning of manganese,iron, copper,zinc, lead,cobalt, and nickel in black coatings on stream boulders in the vicinity of the Magruder mine,Lincoln Co., Georgia

Sequential digestions of Fe-Mn oxide coated boulders collected upstream and downstream from the Magruder mine, Lincoln Co., Georgia, indicate probable partitioning relationships for Zn, Cu, Pb, Co, and Ni with respect to Mn and Fe. Initial digestion with 0.1M hydroxylamine hydrochloride (Hxl) in 0.01M HNO₃ selectively dissolyes Mn oxides, whereas subsequent digestion with 1:4 HCl dissolves remaining Fe oxides.The results indicate that partitioning is not constant, but varies systematically with respect to the location of metal-rich waters derived from sulfide mineralization. Upstream from the mineralized zone Zn and Ni are distinctly partitioned to the Fe oxide component and Co and Cu are partitioned to the Mn oxide component. Immediately downstream from the mineralized zone, Mn oxides become relatively more enriched in Zn, whereas Fe oxides are relatively more enriched in Cu, Co, and Ni. Analytical precision for Pb is poor, but available data suggests it is more closely associated with Fe oxides.For routine geochemical surveys utilizing coated surfaces, a one-step digestion method is probably adequate. Parameters useful for detecting sulfide mineralization are metal concentrations normalized to surface area or various ratios (e.g. Zn/(Mn + Fe), Cu/Mn, Pb/Fe). Ratios can be obtained much faster, and at lower analytical costs than conventional analysis of stream sediment.     

Geochemistry and genesis of sulphide ore deposits in Sharosh Village,Qandil Series,Kurdistan Region,NE Iraq

The low-grade base metal sulphide Cu–Zn–Pb and Fe mineralization of Qandil Series develop in shear zones that occur in formations of the north-western part of the Zagros Orogen. This sulphide mineralization occurs either as quartz vein type or disseminated type associated with metamorphic rocks (marbles and phyllites). This study aims to characterize these sulphide-rich ores by means of their mineralogical and geochemical features, including also the features of the corresponded host formations and those of marbles (calcitic and dolomitic) and phyllites. Petrographical data indicate the presence of Cu, Zn, Pb and Fe sulphides in hydrothermal quartz (±calcite) veins of different generations. Geochemical data of surface samples indicate enrichment of Cu and Fe in shear zones with low concentrations in Zn and Pb. The REE data indicate that the genesis of these sulphide ores took place in a hydrothermal system and was generally attributed to high temperature (> 250 °C).The mineralization seems to be fault-controlled, which is favoured by the significant tectonic deformation of the area.     

Genesis of the Bianjiadayuan Pb-Zn polymetallic deposit,Inner Mongolia,China:Constraints from in-situ sulfur isotope and trace element geochemistry of pyrite

The Southern Great Xing'an Range(S(GXR)which forms part of the eastern segment of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt(CAOB)is known as one of the most important Cu-Mo-Pb-Zn-Ag-Au metallogenic belts in China,hosting a number of porphyry Mo(Cu),skarn Fe(Sn),epithermal Au-Ag,and hydrothermal veintype Ag-Pb-Zn ore deposits.Here we investigate the Bianjiadayuan hydrothermal vein-type Ag-Pb-Zn ore deposit in the southern part of the SGXR.Porphyry Sn± Cu± Mo mineralization is also developed to the west of the Ag-Pb-Zn veins in the ore field.We identify a five-stage mineralization process based on field and petrologic studies including(i)the early porphyry mineralization stage,(ii)main porphyry mineralization stage,(iii)transition mineralization stage,(iv)vein-type mineralization stage and(v)late mineralization stage.Pyrite is the predominant sulfide mineral in all stages except in the late mineralization stage,and we identify corresponding four types of pyrites:Pyl is medium-grained subhedral to euhedral occurring in the early barren quartz vein;Py2 is medium-to fine-grained euhedral pyrite mainly coexisting with molybdenite,chalcopyrite,minor sphalerite and galena;Py3 is fine-grained,subhedral to irregular pyrite and displays cataclastic textures with micro-fractures;Py4 occurs as euhedral microcrystals and forms irregularly shaped aggregate with sphalerite and galena.LA-ICP-MS trace element analyses of pyrite show that Cu,Pb,Zn,Ag,Sn,Cd and Sb are partitioned into pyrite as structurally bound metals or mineral micro/nano-inclusions,whereas Co,Ni,As and Se enter the lattice via isomorphism in all types of pyrite.The Cu,Zn,Ag,Cd concentrations gradually increase from Pyl to Py4,which we correlate with cooling and mixing of ore-forming fluid with meteoric water.Py2 contains the highest contents of Co,Ni,Se,Te and Bi,suggesting high temperature conditions for the porphyry mineralization stage.Ratios of Co/Ni(0.03-10.79,average 2.13)and sulphur isotope composition of sulfide indicate typical hydrothermal origin for pyrites.The δ~(34)S_(cDT) values of Pyl(0.42‰-1.61‰,average1.16‰),Py2(-1.23‰to 0.82‰,average 0.35‰),Py3(—0.36‰to 2.47‰average 0.97‰).Py4(2.51‰--3.72‰,average 3.06‰),and other sulfides are consistent with those of typical porphyry deposit(-5‰to 5‰),indicating that the Pb-Zn polymetallic mineralization in the Bianjiadayuan deposit is genetically linked to the Yanshanian(Jurassic-Cretaceous)magmatic-hydrothermal events.Variations of δ~(34) S values are ascribed to the changes in physical and chemical conditions during the evolution and migration of the ore-forming fluid.We propose that the high Sn content of pyrite in the Bianjiadayuan hydrothermal vein-type Pb-Zn polymetallic deposit can be used as a possible pathfinder to prospect for Sn mineralization in the surrounding area or deeper level of the ore field in this region.     

Trace element concentrations of soils, plants and waters caused by a copper smelting plant and other industries, Northeast Turkey

The study area is situated in a large agricultural field which produces tobacco, maize, and other yearly cultivated vegetables in Tekkeköy, Samsun (NE-Turkey). In addition, a significant part of this area to the north along the Black Sea coast is occupied by several industrial plants such as a copper smelting plant (KB?), a fertilizer plant (Tügsa?) and industrial park facilities (IPF). In order to reveal their environmental impacts, heavy metal analyses were conducted on soil, plant leaves and water samples collected within an area of approximately 30 km² around these plants. Soil samples within an area of 10 km² around these facilities are found to be highly polluted with Cu, Zn, Pb, Fe and Mn. Pollution occurs at surface and sharply dies out at 20 cm downwards in soil profile. Since the region is polluted mostly with base metals, the copper smelting factory appears to be the main source of pollution as it processes the massive sulfidic ores of the Black Sea area. Plants show Cu, Pb, Zn and Fe pollution around KB? and Tügsa? and Cu and Pb around IPF. Pollutants observed in tobacco (Nicotiana tobacum) are Cu, Pb, Zn, Fe and S; in maize (Zea mays) Cu, Zn and Fe; and in cabbage (Brassica oleracea) Cu, Pb, Fe and S. The analyses of water samples collected from the study area reveal that Pb and, to a lesser degree, Cu and Fe pollution stem from KB?; Cu, Fe and Mn pollution from Tügsa?; Pb and minor amounts of Fe and Mn pollution from IPF. Factor analyses from analyzed metals and anionic complexes in water show three distinct groups: (a) an association of heavy metals with Na, K and Mg referring to pollution and acid leaching of soil, (b) an association of NH4, Fe, SO₄, Cl and Br indicating agricultural pollution and sea-water invasion in land near the shore line, and (c) HCO₃ behaving in a different manner in heavy metal precipitation.     

Metal response in plants to sulfide mineralization in the Longobucco area (Calabria, southern Italy)

The results of a multielemental biogeochemical orientation survey carried out in Calabria, southern Italy, are reported in this paper. Five plant species: three herbaceous species, Oenanthe pimpinelloides, Anthemis triumphetti, and a stonecrop (Sedum tenuifolium), a leguminous shrub, spanish broom (Spartium junceum) and laricio pine (Pinus nigra ssp laricio) were studied to determine which species is the most responsive to sulfide mineralization and which are the best indicator elements. Si, Fe, Ti, Mn, Zn, Mo, Cu, and Pb were determined in ashed material by X-ray fluorescence analysis. All the data were treated statistically and classified into geometrically increasing intervals, in order to discriminate anomalous from background values. In addition, an R-mode factor analysis and a correlation analysis were performed to find out whether any specific metal association that could characterize both the lithology and mineralization existed for each plant species. The herbaceous plants, particularly Oenanthe, were much more effective as indicators of mineralization compared with laricio pine. The elements that gave the best indication of sulfide mineralization were Zn and Pb, confirming the usefulness of biogeochemical methods as an additional prospecting tool in Calabria, where such exploration has never been attempted before. R-mode factor analysis was found to be extremely promising as a supplemental tool in the interpretation of results from this biogeochemical survey. Each plant species is always characterized by a metal association (predominantly Pb-Zn-Mn) whose high factor loading scores constantly show a close relationship with proven sulfide mineralization.     

Biogeochemical Prospecting of Sulphide Minerals in Winder Valley, Balochistan, Pakistan

Abstract: The Mor Range is mountainous terrain in southern Balochistan dominantly occupied by exposures of rocks of the Ferozabad Group which is comprised of Lower‐Middle Jurassic carbonates and siliciclastics. This group contains syngenetic and epigenetic Zn–Pb–Ba mineralization classified as Stratiform Sediment‐Hosted (SSH) and Mississippi Valley Type (MVT) deposits. Three important flora of the Saharo–Sindian, phytogeographical region of Pakistan, namely Tamarix aphyl–la, Salvadora oleoides and Acacia arabica have been studied as a mineralization prospecting tool. Samples of these species were collected from Winder Valley adjoining the Mor Range to prospect for new areas of mineralization, besides the known sulphide deposits. This study revealed the Draber, Thorar, Raj, Mithi and Kanrach localities as new prospect. Quantitative estimation of biophile elements (Zn–Cu–Pb) from the three species was made. A number of new Zn, Cu and Pb anomalies were distinguished in the area. The variation in the constituents of these species from different localities possibly varies with nature and distance from bedrock, mobility, climate, average abundance in the plant ash and exclusion mechanism of the flora. Acacia arabica with deep penetrating roots shows the best results and could be used to delineate new horizons of mineralization. In these species Zn and Cu are relatively concentrated whereas Pb shows limited enrichment. Lead therefore is the element best suited for pinpointing the mineralization owing to its relatively less mobile character. Relationships among Zn–Cu–Pb have been established using scattergrams and triangular variation diagram, which also demonstrate their genetic affiliation. Statistical analyses, such as determination of mean, mode, median, standard deviation, and coefficient of correlation, were also made to improve the raw geochemical data. These biogeochemical methods appear to be suitable in arid climate of Balochistan, if proper attention is paid to species selection.     

Ore-forming material sources of the Jurassic Cu–Pb–Zn mineralization in the Qin–Hang ore belt,South China: Constraints from S–Pb isotopes

The Qin–Hang ore belt in South China, which serves as the boundary between the Yangtze and Cathaysia blocks, is marked by extensive Jurassic porphyry-skarn-metasomatic Cu–Pb–Zn polymetallic mineralization. In this contribution, S and Pb isotopic compositions of the Baoshan Cu–Pb–Zn deposit in the western portion of the Qin–Hang ore belt were analyzed to determine the ore-forming material sources in the area. This is coupled by the first systematic collection, compilation and interpretation of previously published S and Pb isotopic data of multiple sulfide minerals to reveal the metal origin and accumulation mechanism of the Cu–Pb–Zn mineralization from the significant deposits in the region (i.e., Dexing, Qibaoshan, Shuikoushan, Baoshan, Huangshaping, Tongshanling and Dabaoshan). The results show that Cu mineralization is characterized by low and narrow δ³⁴S (‰) range of values (–5 to 6) and Pb isotopic ratios (²⁰⁸Pb/²⁰⁴Pb = 38.0–39.0, ²⁰⁷Pb/²⁰⁴Pb = 15.4–15.8, and ²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁴Pb = 17.7–18.7), which are consistent with those of local porphyries. In contrast, the Pb–Zn mineralization reveals higher and more variable δ³⁴S (‰) values (–4 to 18) and Pb isotopic ratios (²⁰⁸Pb/²⁰⁴Pb = 38.0–39.5, ²⁰⁷Pb/²⁰⁴Pb = 15.3–16.0, and ²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁴Pb = 18.0–19.0) that correspond to wall-rock and basement rock compositions in the region. This indicates that the sulfur and lead that formed the Cu mineralization in the Qin–Hang ore belt was mainly sourced from regional magmatism with mantle contributions, whereas the sulfur and lead for the Pb–Zn mineralization was likely derived from the host sedimentary rocks and Proterozoic metamorphic basement rocks, respectively. The S and Pb isotopic data, combined with the geochemical signatures of mineralization-related porphyries, suggest that the Cu was sourced from the deeper levels along with mantle-derived magmas. In contrast, the Pb–Zn probably originated from the crust, with partial melting of the crystalline basement in the Cathaysia Block. Consequently, a three-stage genetic model is proposed to explain the ore-forming processes of the Qin–Hang Cu-polymetallic belt in South China.     

Geochemistry of trace metals associated with reduced sulfur in freshwater sediments

Porewater concentration profiles were determined for Fe, trace elements (As, Cd, Co, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn), sulfide, SO₄ and pH in two Canadian Shield lakes (Chevreuil and Clearwater). Profiles of pyrite, sedimentary trace elements associated with pyrite and AVS were also obtained at the same sites. Thermodynamic calculations are used, for the anoxic porewaters where sulfide was measured, to characterize diagenetic processes involving sulfide and trace elements and to illustrate the importance of sulfide, and possibly polysulfides and thiols, in binding trace elements. The ion activity products (IAP) of Fe sulfide agree with the solubility products (K_s) of greigite or mackinawite. For Co, Ni and Zn, IAP values are close to the K_S values of their sulfide precipitates; for Cu and Pb, IAP/K_s indicate large oversaturations, which can be explained by the presence of other ligands (not measured) such as polysulfides (Cu) and thiols (Pb). Cobalt, Cu, Ni and Zn porewater profiles generally display a decrease in concentration with increasing ΣH₂S, as expected for transition metals, whereas Cd, Pb and Zn show an increase (mobilisation). The results suggest that removal of trace elements from anoxic porewaters occurs by coprecipitation (As and Mn) with FeS(s) and/or adsorption (As and Mn) on FeS(s), and by formation of discrete solid sulfides (Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn and Co). Reactive Fe is extensively sulfidized (51–65%) in both lakes, mostly as pyrite, but also as AVS. Similarities between As, Co, Cu and Ni to Fe ratios in pyrite and their corresponding mean diffusive flux ratios suggest that pyrite is an important sink at depth for these trace elements. High molar ratios of trace elements to Fe in pyrite from Clearwater Lake correspond chronologically to the onset of smelting activities. AVS can be an important reservoir of reactive As, Cd and Ni and, to a lesser extent, of Co, Cu and Pb. Overall, the trace elements most extensively sulfidized were Ni, Cd and As (maximum of 100%, 81% and 49% of the reactive fraction, respectively), whereas Co, Cu, Mn, Pb and Zn were only moderately sulfidized (11–16%).     

Re–Os and U–Pb Geochronology of the Dawan Mo–Zn–Fe Deposit in Northern Taihang Mountains,China

The Dawan Mo–Zn–Fe deposit located in the Northern Taihang Mountains in the middle of the North China Craton (NCC) contains large Mo‐dominant deposits. The mineralization of the Dawan Mo–Zn–Fe deposit is associated with the Mesozoic Wanganzhen granitoid complex and is mainly hosted within Archean metamorphic rocks and Proterozoic–Paleozoic dolomites. Rhyolite porphyry and quartz monzonite both occur in the ore field and potassic alteration, strong silicic–phyllic alteration, and propylitic alteration occur from the center of the rhyolite porphyry outward. The Mo mineralization is spacially related to silicic and potassic alteration. The Fe orebody is mainly found in serpentinized skarn in the external contact zone between the quartz monzonite and dolomite. Six samples of molybdenite were collected for Re–Os dating. Results show that the Re–Os model ages range from 136.2 Ma to 138.1 Ma with an isochron age of 138 ± 2 Ma (MSWD = 1.2). U–Pb zircon ages determined by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry yield crystallization ages of 141.2 ± 0.7 (MSWD = 0.38) and 130.7 ± 0.6 Ma (MSWD = 0.73) for the rhyolite porphyry and quartz monzonite, respectively. The ore‐bearing rhyolite porphyry shows higher K₂O/Na₂O ratios, ranging from 58.0 to 68.7 (wt%), than those of quartz monzonite. All of the rock samples are classified in the shoshonitic series and characterized by enrichment in large ion lithophile elements; depletion in Mg, Fe, Ta, Ni, P, and Y; enrichment in light rare earth elements with high (La/Yb)_n ratios. Geochronology results indicate that skarn‐type Fe mineralization associated with quartz monzonite (130.7 ± 0.6 Ma) formed eight million years later than Mo and Zn mineralization (138 ± 2 Ma) in the Dawan deposit. From Re concentrations in molybdenite and previously presented Pb and S isotope data, we conclude that the ore‐forming material of the deposit was derived from a crust‐mantle mixed source. The porphyry‐skarn type Cu–Mo–Zn mineralization around the Wanganzhen complex is related to the primary magmatic activity, and the skarn‐type Fe mineralization is formed at the late period magmatism. The Dawan Mo–Zn–Fe porphyry‐skarn ores are related to the magmatism that was associated with lithospheric thinning in the NCC.     

Molybdenite Re–Os,zircon U–Pb dating and Hf isotopic analysis of the Shuangqing Fe–Pb–Zn–Cu skarn deposit,East Kunlun Mountains,Qinghai Province,China

The Shuangqing Fe–Pb–Zn–Cu deposit is located in the Xiangride County of Qinghai Province, China, and is a typical example of skarn deposits in the East Kunlun Mountains. Skarnization and mineralization took place along the contact zone between Carboniferous carbonates and the concealed Triassic plagiogranite. LA–ICP–MS U–Pb dating of zircons from the plagiogranite has yielded ages of 227.2 ± 1.0 and 226.54 ± 0.97 Ma, which are interpreted as the emplacement age of the plagiogranite. Molybdenites separated from ore-bearing quartz-veins yielded a Re–Os isochron age of 226.5 ± 5.1 Ma. These age data confirm that both intrusion and related skarn mineralization initiated at ~ 227 Ma. Re contents of molybdenite, zircon ε_Hf(t) and ¹⁷⁶Hf/¹⁷⁷Hf values fall into the ranges 3.31 to 6.58 μg/g, − 8.6 to − 0.0, and 0.282403 to 0.28263850, respectively. The timing of the Shuangqing Fe–Pb–Zn–Cu mineralization coincided with a major change in the stress field in East Kunlun from transpression to extension, related to the partial melting of thickening crustal materials in a post-collisional tectonic setting.     

Geochemical Characteristics and Zonation of Primary Halos of Pulang Porphyry Copper Deposit,Northwestern Yunnan Province,Southwestern China

The Pulang (普朗) porphyry copper deposit, located in the southern segment of the Yidun-Zhongdian (义敦-为中甸) island arc ore-forming belt of the Tethys-Himalaya ore-forming domain, is a recently discovered large copper deposit. Compared with the composition of granodiorite in China, the porphyry rocks in this area are enriched in W, Mo, Cu, Au, As, Sb, F, V, and Na2O (K1≥1.2). Compared with the composition of fresh porphyry rocks in this district, the mineralized rocks are enriched in Cn, Au, Ag, Mo, Pb, Zn, W, As, Sb, and K2O (K≥1.2). Some elements show clear anomalies, such as Zn, Ag, Cu, Au, W, and Mo, and can be regarded as pathfinders for prospecting new ore bodies in depth. It has been inferred from factor analysis that the Pulang porphyry copper deposit may have undergone the multiple stages of alteration and mineralization: (a) Cu-Au mineralization; (b) W-Mo mineralization; and (c) silicification and potassic metasomatism in the whole ore-forming process. A detailed zonation sequence of indicator elements is obtained using the variability index of indicator elements as follows: Zn→Ag→Cu→Au→W→Mo. According to this zonation, an index such as (Ag×Zn) D/(Mo×W) D can be constructed and regarded as a significant criterion for predicting the Cu potential at a particular depth.     

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.     

Minerals with Brackebuschite-Like Structures: A Novel Solid Solution System Involving Cr<Superscript>6+</Superscript> and V<Superscript>5+</Superscript>

A novel complex continuous system of solid solutions involving vauquelinite Pb₂Cu(CrO₄)(PO₄)(OH), bushmakinite Pb₂Al(VO₄)(PO₄)(OH), ferribushmakinite Pb2Fe³⁺(VO₄)(PO₄)(OH), and a phase with the endmember formula Pb₂Cu(VO₄)(PO₄)(H₂O) or Pb₂Cu(VO₄)(РО₃ОН)(ОН) is studied based on samples from the oxidation zone of the Berezovskoe, Trebiat, and Pervomaisko-Zverevsky deposits in the Urals, Russia. This is the first natural system in which chromate and vanadate anions show a wide range of substitutions and the most extensive solid solution system involving (CrO₄)^2– found in nature. The major couple substitution is Cr⁶⁺ + Cu²⁺ ? V⁵⁺ + M³⁺, where M = Fe, Al. The correlation coefficients calculated from 125 point analyses are: 0.96 between V and (Fe + Al), 0.96 between Cr and (Cu + Zn),–0.96 between V and (Cu + Zn),–0.97 between Cr and (Fe + Al), and–0.97 between (Fe + Al) and (Cu + Zn). The substitutions V⁵⁺ ? Cr⁶⁺ (correlation coefficient–0.98) and to a lesser extent P⁵⁺ ? As⁵⁺ (correlation coefficient–0.86) occur at two types of tetrahedral sites, whereas the metal–nonmetal/metalloid substitutions, i.e., V or Cr for P or As, are minor. The substitution Fe³⁺ ? Al³⁺ is also negligible in this solid solution system.     

Quantitative analysis of anomalous sources and geochemical signatures in the Walker Lake quadrangle of Nevada and California

A new quantitative transportation model for geochemical elements in stream sediment samples is proposed and used to estimate mineral sources of anomalous concentrations and to adjust both location and concentration for the transportation effect. Subsequent to transportation analysis, data on 14 geochemical elements in the Walker Lake quadrangle are analyzed for geochemical signatures for three types of mineralization environments: epithermal gold-silver deposits, porphyry-skarn copper deposits, and a mixed occurrence. Geochemical signatures are analyzed using a multidimensional scaling method referred to as the p_ijk model, which is a factor-like model generalized to include nonlinear associations, as well as linear, among triple variables (elements). A result of this analysis is that Pb is the best indicator for epithermal gold-silver mineralization, Mo and Zn for mixed mineralization, and Cu for porphyry-skarn mineralization.     

A GIS-based approach for detecting pollution sources and bioavailability of metals in coastal and marine sediments of Chabahar Bay,SE Iran

Chabahar Bay in SE of Iran is a shallow semi-enclosed environment affected by anthropogenic activities. In this paper, 19 sediment samples were collected and concentration of selected metals (Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd, Ni, Cr, Co, V and Fe) was determined using ICP-MS analytical method. Sediment samples from five stations were also selected for sequential extraction analysis and concentration of metals in each fraction was determined using ICP-OES. In order to investigate the environmental quality of Chabahar Bay, geographic information system (GIS) along with geochemical data, environmental indices and statistical analyses were used. Calculated contamination degree (C_d) revealed that most contaminated stations (Ch3, S1 and S3) are located SE of Chabahar Bay and contamination decreases in a NW direction. The S9 station, west of the bay, is also contaminated. High organic matter (OM) content in the sediments is most likely the result of fuel and sewage discharge from fishing vessels along with discharge of fishing leftovers. Significant correlation coefficient among OM, Fe, Cu, Pb, Zn and Cd seemingly reflects the importance of the role that OM and Fe oxy-hydroxides play in the metals mobility. The results of hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), computed correlation coefficient and sequential extraction analysis suggest that Cu, Pb, Zn and Cd probably come from antifouling and sea vessel paints, while Ni, Cr, Co, V and Fe are most likely contributed by ophiolitic formations located north of the bay and/or deep sea sediments. Average individual contamination factors (ICFs) indicated that the highest health hazard from the bay is posed by Cu, Pb and Zn.     

Two pulses of mineralization and genesis of the Zhaxikang Sb–Pb–Zn–Ag deposit in southern Tibet: Constraints from Fe–Zn isotopes

Zhaxikang is one large Sb–Pb–Zn–Ag deposit located in the North Himalaya of southern Tibet. To date, the genesis of this deposit still remains controversial. Here, we present new pyrite Fe and sphalerite Zn isotopic data for the first three stages of mineralization, Fe–Zn isotopic data for Mn–Fe carbonate that formed during the first two stages of mineralization, and Zn isotopic data for the slate wall rocks of the Jurassic Ridang Formation to discuss the genesis of the Zhaxikang deposit. The overall δ⁵⁶Fe and δ⁶⁶Zn values range from −0.80‰ to 0.43‰ and from −0.03‰ to 0.38‰, respectively. The δ⁵⁶Fe values of Mn–Fe carbonates are lighter than those of associated pyrite in six mineral pairs, indicating that the iron carbonates are preferentially enriched in light Fe isotopes relative to pyrite. The sphalerite has lighter δ⁶⁶Zn values than associated Mn–Fe carbonates in three mineral pairs.The δ⁵⁶Fe values of pyrite that formed during the first three stages of mineralization gradually increase from stage 1 (−0.33‰ to −0.09‰) through stage 2 (−0.30‰ to 0.19‰) to stage 3 (0.16‰–0.43‰). In comparison, the sphalerite that formed during these stages has δ⁶⁶Zn values that gradually decrease from stage 1 (0.16‰–0.35‰) through stage 2 (0.09‰–0.23‰) to stage 3 (−0.03‰ to 0.22‰). These data, in conjunction with the observations of hand specimens and thin sections, suggest that the deposit was overprinted by a second pulse of mineralization. This overprint would account for these Fe–Zn isotopic variations as well as the kinetic Rayleigh fractionation that occurred during mineralization. The temporally increasing δ⁵⁶Fe and decreasing δ⁶⁶Zn values recorded in the deposit are also coincident with an increase in alteration, again supporting the existence of two pulses of mineralization. The δ⁵⁶Fe values of the first pulse of ore-forming fluid were calculated using theoretical equations, yielding values of −0.54‰ to −0.34‰ that overlap with those of submarine hydrothermal solutions (−1‰ to 0‰). However, the δ⁵⁶Fe values of the stage 3 pyrite are heavier than those of typical submarine hydrothermal solutions, which suggests that the second pulse of mineralization was probably derived from a magmatic hydrothermal fluid. In addition, the second pulse of ore-forming fluid has brought some Fe and taken away parts of Zn, which results the lighter δ⁶⁶Zn values of sphalerite and heavier δ⁵⁶Fe values of pyrite from the second pulse of mineralization. Overall, the Zhaxikang deposit records two pulses of mineralization, and the overprint by the second pulse of mineralization causes the lighter δ⁶⁶Zn values and heavier δ⁵⁶Fe values of modified samples.     

Sensitive High-Resolution Ion Microprobe U-Pb Zircon and 40Ar-39Ar Muscovite Ages of the Yinshan Deposit in the Northeast Jiangxi Province, South China

The Yinshan deposit in the Jiangnan tectonic belt in South China consists of Pb‐Zn‐Ag and Cu‐Au ore bodies. This deposit contains approximately 83 Mt of the Cu‐Au ores at 0.52% Cu and 0.8 g/t Au, and 84 Mt of the Pb‐Zn‐Ag ores at 1.25% Pb, 1.02% Zn and 33.3 g/t Ag. It is hosted by low‐grade metamorphosed sedimentary rocks and mafic volcanic rocks of the lower Mesoproterozoic Shuangqiaoshan Group, and continental volcanic rocks of the Jurassic Erhuling Group and dacitic subvolcanic rocks. The ore bodies mainly consist of veinlets of sulfide minerals and sulfide‐disseminated rocks, which are divided into Cu‐Au and Pb‐Zn‐Ag ore bodies. The Cu‐Au ore bodies occur in the area close to a dacite porphyry stock (No. 3 stock), whereas Pb‐Zn‐Ag bodies occur in areas distal from the No. 3 stock. Muscovite is the main alteration mineral associated with the Cu‐Au ore bodies, and muscovite and chlorite are associated with the Pb‐Zn‐Ag ores. A zircon sensitive high‐resolution ion microprobe U‐Pb age from the No. 3 dacite stock suggests it was emplaced in Early Jurassic. Three ⁴⁰Ar‐³⁹Ar incremental‐heating mineral ages from muscovite, which are related to Cu‐Au and Pb‐Zn‐Ag mineralization, yielded 179–175 Ma. These muscovite ages indicate that Cu‐Au mineralization occurred at 178.2±1.4 Ma (2σ), and Pb‐Zn‐Ag mineralization at 175.4±1.2 Ma (2σ) and 175.3±1.1 Ma (2σ), which supports a restricted period for the mineralization. The Early Jurassic ages for the mineralization at Yinshan are similar to that of the porphyry Cu mineralization at Dexing in Jiangnan tectonic belt, and suggest that the polymetallic mineralization occurred in a regional transcompressional tectonic regime.