Genesis of the stratiform Zhenzigou PbZn deposit in the North China Craton: RbSr and COSPb isotope constraints

Isotopes (RbSr, C, O, S, and Pb) were investigated from the Zhenzigou PbZn deposit in the Qingchengzi mineral field (QMF) of the North China Craton as an aid to determine the genesis of stratiform PbZn deposits in the Liao-Ji Rift. A step-dissolution RbSr age of 1798 ± 8 Ma with 206Pb/204Pb ratios of 17.7477–17.8527 were obtained from sphalerite. Sulfur isotopic ratios for pyrite (5–14.4‰), sphalerite (2.4–8.6‰), and galena (− 0.3–8.6‰) from Zhenzigou have a narrower range than those from the host Paleoproterozoic Dashiqiao Formation, and granite in the area. Calcite and limestone from ore and wallrocks at the deposit have similar C and O isotope compositions, with δ¹³C_PDB ranging from − 6.0 to − 2.3‰ and δ¹⁸O_SMOW from 9.8 to 13.7‰, which are similar to those of carbonatite and the mantle.Comprehensive analysis of the Pb isotopic composition of the sulfide from the Zhenzigou deposit and PbZn deposits in adjacent area show that the Pb originated from the upper crust and mixed with Pb from the mantle. Sulfur isotopes from Zhenzigou deposit indicate that the mineralization has a volcanic eruption source. The δ¹³C_PDB and δ¹⁸O_SMOW values indicate that the CO₂ originated from a mixed mantle, marine carbonate and organic source.Combined with the study of regional metallogenic background, this paper proposes that deposition of stratiform PbZn mineralization in the QMF began ca. 2052 Ma during development of the Liaoji Rift. The mineralization extended to ca. 1798 Ma prior to deformation associated with the Lvliang Movement, which dismembered the stratiform PbZn mineralization. The veined mineralization in the region cross-cuts the stratiform deposits and represents remobilized and redeposited deposits associated with the emplacement of Triassic plutons such as the Xinling and Shuangdinggou granites.     

Isotope geochemistry of Mississippi Valley Type stratabound F-Ba-(Pb-Zn) ores of Hammam Zriba (Province of Zaghouan,NE Tunisia)

The Hammam Zriba F-Ba-(Zn-Pb) ore deposit in the Province of Zaghouan in north-eastern Tunisia is hosted in the shallow dipping unconformity between green marls with chalky biomicritic limestones of Campanian age and Uppermost Jurassic carbonates. The mineralization consists mainly of fluorite and barite with minor sphalerite and galena. Calcite is the main gangue mineral. Two types of Zn-Pb sulfides can be distinguished according to the geometry of the orebodies, i.e., lenticular or stratiform ores, intra-karstic fillings. Sulfur isotope compositions (δ³⁴S) of barite range from 14.7 to 17.2‰, indicating that sulfur was derived from Triassic evaporites and the higher ones (19–25.7‰) are due to reservoir effect associated with thermo-chemical sulfate reduction (TSR) or bacterial sulfate reduction (BSR) under conditions of restricted sulfate supply. δ³⁴S of galena and sphalerite in lenticluar and intra-karstic orebodies range from −13.8 to 2.1‰, and could be explained by multiple sources of reduced sulfur: Triassic evaporites, diagenetic primary sulfides as well as sulfur from organic matter. Both TSR and BSR as potential contributors of sulfur are needed for sulfide precipitation. Lead isotope compositions of galena exhibit very similar: ²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁴Pb (18.858–18.876), ²⁰⁷Pb/²⁰⁴Pb (15.667–15.684), and ²⁰⁸Pb/²⁰⁴Pb (38.680–38.747) ratios, and plot between the upper crust and orogene average growth curves, reflecting involvement of a mixing and subsequent homogenization of Pb isotopic compositions of different source Pb reservoirs. The underlying Paleozoic basement rocks were the plausible source of metals. The economic ore (fluorite F1) mineralization was formed during the Eocene-Miocene compressional phase. During this deformation phase, deep-seated basinal brines have been circulated as hydrothermal fluids that have interacted with the Paleozoic rocks, thereby leaching metals, and have been channelized through subsidiary faults associated with the major regional NE–SW-trending deep-seated Zaghouan-Ressas fault. Hydrothermal fluids then migrated to the site of deposition where they got mixed with shallow, cooler, metal-depleted, TSR- and BSR-derived sulfur-rich fluids, which triggered the precipitation of the ores.     

Zinc and lead isotope signatures of the Zhaxikang PbZn deposit,South Tibet: Implications for the source of the ore-forming metals

Stable Zn isotopes may be applied to trace the source of ore-forming metals in various types of PbZn deposits. To test this application, Zn and Pb isotope systematics for sulfides and associated basement rocks as well as FeMn carbonates (gangue) from the Zhaxikang PbZn deposit in South Tibet have been analyzed. The basement in this region includes metamorphosed mafic to felsic rocks (dolerite, quartz diorite, rhyolite porphyry, pyroclastics and porphyritic monzogranite). These rocks have similar δ⁶⁶Zn values of 0.33 to 0.37‰, with an average value of 0.36 ± 0.03‰ (2σ), except for the more evolved porphyritic monzogranite that has a heavier value of 0.49‰. FeMn carbonates are present as hydrothermal veins and were probably precipitated from magmatic fluids. They have an average δ⁶⁶Zn value of 0.27 ± 0.05‰, which is slightly lighter than the basement rocks, possibly representing δ⁶⁶Zn isotopic compositions of the hydrothermal fluids. Sphalerite and galena have similar Zn isotopic compositions with δ⁶⁶Zn ranging from 0.03 to 0.26‰ and 0.21 to 0.28‰, respectively. Considering the Zn isotope fractionation factor between sphalerite and fluids of − 0.2‰ at ~ 300 °C as reported in literature, hydrothermal fluids from which these sulfides precipitated will have δ⁶⁶Zn values of ca. 0.39 ± 0.10‰, which are consistent with the values of basement rocks and the FeMn carbonates. This similarity supports a magmatic-hydrothermal origin of the Zhaxikang PbZn deposit. Both Pb and S isotopes in these sphalerite and galena show large variations and are consistent with being derived from a mixture of basement and sedimentary rocks in various proportions. Zn isotopic compositions of the sulfides significantly extend the range of regional basement rocks, suggesting that sedimentary rocks (e.g., shales) are also a significant source of Zn. However, the Zn isotopic compositions of sphalerite and galena differ from those of marine carbonates and those of typical SEDEX-type deposits (e.g. Kelley et al., 2009), confirming a magmatic-hydrothermal model. Combined with regional geological observations and the age constraints of ~ 20 Ma (Zheng et al., 2012, 2014), the results of our investigation indicate that the Zhaxikang PbZn deposit is most likely a magmatic-hydrothermal deposit.     

Mineralogical and Geochemical Constraints on the Genesis of the Carbonate‐Hosted Jebel Ghozlane Pb–Zn Deposit (Nappe Zone,Northern Tunisia)

The Pb–Zn deposit at Jebel Ghozlane, in the Nappe zone (northern Tunisia), is hosted by Triassic dolostones and Eocene limestones and is located along faults and a thrust‐sheet boundary. The sulfide mineralization of the deposit consists mainly of galena and sphalerite and occurs as vein, stockwork, breccia, dissemination and replacement ores. Three hydrothermal stages are involved in the formation of the ores: stage I is dominated by celestite‐barite, hydrothermal dolomite DII, colloform sphalerite, and galena I; stage II consist of galena II; and stage III contains calcite. Galena in the deposit yielded average ²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁴Pb, ²⁰⁷Pb/²⁰⁴Pb and ²⁰⁸Pb/²⁰⁴Pb ratios of 18.705, 15.667 and 38.734, respectively, suggesting a single upper crustal source reservoir for metals. Trace element data indicate the presence of Zn‐ and As‐free galena and As‐rich galena (with 0.2–0.5% As). Sphalerite contains 0.4% As, 0.7–0.9% Cd and 0.1–1.5% Fe. Microthermometric analysis of fluid inclusions in celestite shows that the deposit formed from fluids composed of heterogeneous mixtures of saline (19.5 ± 1 wt% NaCl eq.) aqueous solutions sourced from basinal brines, and gaseous CO₂‐rich phases bearing low amounts of CH₄, N₂ and/or H₂S, at temperatures of 172 ± 5°C.     

The Paleozoic Ozbak-Kuh carbonate-hosted Pb-Zn deposit of East Central Iran: Isotope (C,O, S,Pb) geochemistry and ore genesis

Lead and zinc mineralization occurs in dolostones of the Middle Devonian Sibzar Formation at Ozbak-Kuh, which is located 150 km north of Tabas city in East Central Iran. The ore is composed of galena, sphalerite and calcite, with subordinate dolomite and bitumen. Wall-rock alterations include carbonate recrystallization and dolomitization. Microscopic studies reveal that the host rock is replaced by galena and sphalerite. The Pb–Zn mineralization is epigenetic and stratabound. The δ¹³C values of hydrothermal calcite samples fall in the narrow range between ?0.3‰ and 0.8‰. The δ¹⁸O values in calcite display a wider range, between ?14.5‰ and ?11.9‰. The δ¹³C and δ¹⁸O values overlap with the oxygen and carbon isotopic compositions of Paleozoic seawater, indicating the possible important participation of Paleozoic seawater in the ore-forming fluid. The δ¹⁸O signature corresponds to a spread in temperature of about 70 °C in the ore-bearing fluid. The δ¹³C values indicate that the organic materials within the host rocks did not contribute significantly in the hydrothermal fluid. The δ³⁴S values of galena and sphalerite samples occupy the ranges of 12.2‰–16.0‰ and 12.1–16.8‰, respectively. These values reveal that the seawater sulfate is the most probable source of sulfur. The reduced sulfur was most likely supplied through thermochemical sulfate reduction. The sulfur isotope ratios of co-precipitated sphalerite–galena pairs suggest that deposition of the sulfide minerals took place under chemical disequilibrium conditions. The ²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁴Pb, ²⁰⁷Pb/²⁰⁴Pb, and ²⁰⁸Pb/²⁰⁴Pb ratios of the galena samples represent average values of 18.08, 15.66, and 38.50, respectively. These ratios indicate that galena Pb likely originated from an orogenic source in which supracrustal rocks with high ²³⁸U/²⁰⁴Pb and ²³²Th/²⁰⁴Pb ratios are dominant. The average lead isotope model age portrays Cambrian age. This model age is not coeval with the host rocks, which are of middle Devonian age. It is probable that the pre-Middle Devonian model age shows the derivation of Pb from older sources either from host rocks of Cambrian age or from deposits previously formed in these rock units. The Pb isotopic composition of galena accords with the occurrence of an orogenic activity from Late Neoproterozoic to Lower Cambrian in Central Iran. The proposed genetic model considers the fact that mineralization formed in fractured and brecciated host rocks along shear zones and faults from metal-bearing connate waters that were discharged due to deformational dewatering of sediments.     

Mineralogical and geochemical characterization of the Riópar non-sulfide Zn-(Fe-Pb) deposits (Prebetic Zone,SE Spain)

The present paper reports the first detailed petrological and geochemical study of non-sulfide Zn–(FePb) deposits in the Riópar area (Prebetic Zone of the Mesozoic Betic Basin, SE Spain), constraining the origin and evolution of ore-forming fluids. In Riópar both sulfide and non-sulfide Zn–(FePb) (“calamine”) ores are hosted in hydrothermally dolomitized Lower Cretaceous limestones. The hypogene sulfides comprise sphalerite, marcasite and minor galena. Calamine ores consist of Zn-carbonates (smithsonite and scarce hydrozincite), associated with abundant Fe-(hydr)oxides (goethite and hematite) and minor Pb-carbonates (cerussite). Three smithsonite types have been recognized: i) Sm-I consists of brown anhedral microcrystalline aggregates as encrustations replacing sphalerite; ii) Sm-II refers to brownish subhedral aggregates of rugged appearance related with Fe oxi-hydroxides in the surface crystals, which replace extensively sphalerite; and iii) Sm-III smithsonite appears as coarse grayish botryoidal aggregates in microkarstic cavities and porosity. Hydrozincite is scarce and appears as milky white botryoidal encrustations in cavities replacing smithsonite. Also, two types of cerussite have been identified: i) Cer-I cerussite consists of fine crystals replacing galena along cleavage planes and crystal surfaces; and ii) Cer-II conforms fine botryoidal crystals found infill porosity. Calcite and thin gypsum encrustations were also recognized. The field and petrographic observations of the Riópar non-sulfide Zn–(FePb) revealed two successive stages of supergene ore formation under meteoric fluid processes: i) “gossan” and “red calamine” formation in the uppermost parts of the ore with deposition of Fe-(hydr)oxides and Zn- and Pb-carbonates (Sm-I, Sm-II and Cer-I), occurring as direct replacements of ZnPb sulfides; and ii) “gray calamine” ore formation with deposition of Sm-III, Cer-II and hydrozincite infilling microkarst cavities and porosity. The stable isotope variation of Riópar smithsonite is very similar to those obtained in other calamine-ore deposits around the world. Their CO isotope data (δ¹⁸O: + 27.8 to + 29.6‰ V-SMOW; δ¹³C: − 6.3 to + 0.4‰ V-PDB), puts constrains on: i) the oxidizing fluid type, which was of meteoric origin with temperatures of 12 to 19 °C, suggesting a supergene weathering process for the calamine-ore formation under a temperate climate; and ii) the carbon source, that resulted from mixing between two CO₂ components derived from: the dissolution of host-dolomite (¹³C-enriched source) and vegetation decomposition (¹³C-depleted component).     

Nakhlak carbonate-hosted Pb(Ag) deposit,Isfahan province,Iran: a geological,mineralogical, geochemical,fluid inclusion,and sulfur isotope study

The Upper Cretaceous Nakhlak epigenetic vein-type Pb(Ag) deposit is located 55 km northeast of the town of Anarak in Isfahan Province, Iran. The deposit contains 7 Mt of galena-barite ore with an average grade of 8.33% Pb, 0.38% Zn, and 72 ppm Ag. The ore mineralization occurs as stratabound, epigenetic, steeply dipping, east-west–trending veins in faulted- or fracture-controlled Upper Cretaceous Sadar carbonates. Galena and barite are the primary minerals. Minor sphalerite, tennantite-tetrahedrite, pyrite, and chalcopyrite occur as inclusions in galena. Cerussite with minor amounts of anglesite and plattnerite formed in the oxidized supergene zone. The ore and ore-related minerals were deposited in the hydrothermally dolomitized carbonate host rock containing saddle-shaped dolomite. Geochemically, the dolomitized carbonate host rocks are enriched in MgO, Fe₂O₃, MnO, Pb, Zn, and Ba, but depleted in CaO. The galena concentrate contains high values of Ag (932 ppm), Sb (342 ppm), Cu (422 ppm), As (91 ppm), and Zn (296 ppm); the presence of these trace elements indicates a low-temperature type of galena mineralization. This interpretation is corroborated by fluid inclusions containing 12.98 wt.% NaCl equivalent salinity; the inclusions homogenize at the low temperature of about 152.1 °C. The similarity between δ³⁴S_(V-CDT) values in Nakhlak barite and Permian–Triassic δ³⁴S marine sulfate values indicates that the Nakhlak sulfur was probably provided from evaporates of Permian–Triassic age. The δ³⁴S_(V-CDT) values of galena and barite samples occupy the ranges of − 1.04‰ to + 8.62‰ and + 10.95‰ to + 13.71‰, respectively, and are similar to Mississippi Valley–type (MVT) deposits. The low-temperature basinal fluids, evaporate-originated sulfur, and fault- or fracture-controlled galena-rich veins in the Nakhlak deposit resemble the type of geological features documented in Pb-rich MVT deposits.     

Isotope Geochemistry of the Pb-Zn-Ba(-Ag-Au) Mineralization at Triades-Galana,Milos Island,Greece

The Pb-Zn-Ba(-Ag-Au) mineralization in the Triades and Galana mine areas is hosted in 2.5–1.4 Ma pyroclastic rocks, and structurally controlled mostly by NE-SW or N-S trending brittle faults. Proximal pervasive silica and distal pervasive sericite-illite alteration are the two main alteration types present at the surface. The distribution of mineralization-alteration in the district suggests at least two hydrothermal events or that hydrothermal activity lasted longer at Galana. The Sr isotope signature of sphalerite and barite (⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr = 0.709162 to 0.710214) and calculated oxygen isotope composition of a fluid in equilibrium with barite and associated quartz at temperatures of around 230°C are suggestive of a seawater hydrothermal system and fluid/rock interaction. Lead isotope ratios of galena and sphalerite (²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁴Pb from 18.8384 to 18.8711; ²⁰⁷Pb/²⁰⁴Pb from 15.6695 to 15.6976; ²⁰⁸Pb/²⁰⁴Pb from 38.9158 to 39.0161) are similar to those of South Aegean Arc volcanic and Aegean Miocene plutonic rocks, and compatible with Pb derived from an igneous source. Galena and sphalerite from Triades-Galana have δ³⁴S_VCDT values ranging from +1 to +3.6‰, whereas barite sulfate shows δ³⁴S_VCDT values from +22.8 to +24.4‰. The sulfur isotope signatures of these minerals are explained by seawater sulfate reduction processes. The new analytical data are consistent with a seawater-dominated hydrothermal system and interaction of the hydrothermal fluid with the country rocks, which are the source of the ore metals.     

Connexion porphyre cuprifère–épithermaux de type low-sulfidation : analyse structurale et représentation 3D du secteur de Bolcana,monts Apuseni,Roumanie

The AuPbZn low-sulfidation epithermal ore deposits of Troita, Trestia, and Magura (Apuseni Mountains, Romania) are spatially related to the Bolcana Cu-porphyry. In an attempt to demonstrate the connection between these mineralizations, a geometric study was made based on structural measurements and GOCAD^© geomodeller 3D representation of deposits. This study indicates that a specific spatial distribution of the different Au and PbZn veins of the epithermal deposits occurs around the Cu-porphyry, which cannot result from telescoped systems. To cite this article: O. Cardon et al., C. R. Geoscience 337 (2005).     

Multi-stage fluid incursion in the Palaeozoic basement-hosted Saint-Salvy ore deposit (NW Montagne Noire,southern France)

The Saint-Salvy vein-hosted Zn (+Ge) deposit occurs in an E–W fault system which flanks the southern margin of the late Variscan Sidobre granite, and cross-cuts Cambrian black shales of the Palaeozoic basement. Comprehensive mineralogical and geochemical studies of vein samples have revealed four mineralizing events (M1–M4) related to late and post-Variscan tectonic events. A further late-stage event may be related to weathering.M1 (=skarn deposits) and M2 (=patchily mineralized quartz veinlets) are associated with granite emplacement. Quartz contains low salinity, H₂OCO₂(NaCl)-dominated fluids(⩽6wt% NaCl equiv.) of relatively high temperature (300–580°C), trapped under moderate to high pressure. Estimated M1 fluid δD and calculated fluidδ¹⁸O plot within the metamorphic water field. There appears to be no involvement of magmatic fluids.By contrast, M3 (= barren quartz) and M4 (= zinciferous economic mineralization) stages have H₂OCO₂NaClCaCl₂ fluid inclusions with high salinities (23–25 wt% NaCl equiv.) and low temperatures(∼ 80–140°C), which were trapped under low-pressure conditions. The high salinity and NaCl + CaCl₂ content of both M3 and M4 indicates that their parent fluids leached evaporitic salts. M3 fluids are meteoric water dominated, falling close to the meteoric water line (δD andδ¹⁸O averaging −64 and −8‰, respectively). M4 fluids have highly distinctive δD averaging −101‰, and calculated fluidδ¹⁸O varying from−1.2to+7.1‰. The unusually low δD composition of M4 suggests the involvement of “organic” fluids, in which H is derived directly or indirectly from organic matter. The relatively highδ¹⁸O of M4 fluids indicates that considerable isotopic exchange with sedimentary material took place, displacing theδ¹⁸O from the meteoric water line. The data imply interaction of meteoric waters with evaporite and hydrocarbon-bearing sedimentary sequences, most probably the adjacent Aquitain Basin.The main economic mineralization (M4 stage) took place during a tensional event, probably coincident with the Lias-Dogger transition.Calculatedδ³⁴S_H2S of M4 sulphide(+5.4to+8.2‰) is almost identical toδ³⁴S of local Cambrian sulphides(+4.7to+9.4‰) suggesting a genetic link. Abundant siderite associated with M4 sphalerite hasδ¹³C ranging from−2.6to−4.4‰ indicating that carbon was sourced from sedimentary carbonate mobilized by, or equilibrated with the hydrothermal fluid.Late-stage sulphides exhibit extraordinary and highly distinctiveδ³⁴S. Sphalerite has extremely low δ³⁴S(−42.5to−50.5‰), whereas pyrite has an extraordinary large range from−33.2‰to+74.3‰. Closed system sulphate reduction is held to be responsible for the extremely highδ³⁴S: whereas more open system reduction produces the very low values. The coincidence of isotopically lowδ¹³C(−7.6to−11.9‰) for co-genetic calcite suggests the involvement of organic matter in the reduction process.     

Contribution of recycled sediments to the mantle reservoir beneath Hainan Island: Evidence from Sr,Nd, Pb,Hf, and Mg isotopic analyses of Late Cenozoic basalts

Magnesium isotopes are a useful tool for constraining the origin of basalts with EM-like isotopic signatures in relation to ancient subducted slabs and recycled materials incorporated in mantle plumes. In this study, we present new SrNdPbHf and Mg isotopic data that were used to determine the origin of the basalt on Hainan Island and investigate the EM mantle reservoir beneath the island. Cenozoic basalts from northern Hainan Island are mainly tholeiitic, with a small amount of alkaline basalts. The Hainan basalts exhibited depleted SrNd isotopic compositions and EM2-like Pb isotopic signatures. The δ²⁶Mg values of the Hainan basalts ranged from ?0.40‰ to ?0.28‰. The origin of the low δ²⁶Mg signature can be attributed to carbonate sediments from recycled oceanic slab. Hainan basalts show a negative concave curve relationship between ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr and ε_Nd values, a positive relationship between ²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁴Pb and ²⁰⁷Pb/²⁰⁴Pb values and exhibit an evolution trend from depleted mantle towards marine sediments. This indicates that Hainan Island basalts can be explained by the mixing between depleted mantle and marine sediments. Most Hainan basalts have higher K/U × 10^?3 and Ba/Th ratios than primitive mantle (K/U × 10^?3 ≈ 11.8, Ba/Th ≈ 83), moreover, display highly correlated K/U × 10^?3 and Ba/Th compositions with low-pressure (6–8 GPa) carbonated melt released from initial sediments. Therefore, we speculate that the primitive mantle peridotite, coupled with the low-pressure carbonated melt, ultimately became the mantle source of Hainan Island basalts.     

The Zhaxikang Vein‐type Pb‐Zn‐Ag‐Sb Deposit in Himalayan Orogen,Tibet: Product by Overprinting and Remobilization Processes during Post‐collisional Period

The Zhaxikang Pb-Zn-Ag-Sb deposit, the largest polymetallic deposit known in the Himalayan Orogen of southern Tibet, is characterized by vein-type mineralization that hosts multiple mineral assemblages and complicated metal associations. The deposit consists of at least six steeply dipping veintype orebodies that are hosted by Early Jurassic black carbonaceous slates and are controlled by a Cenozoic N–S-striking normal fault system. This deposit records multiple stages of mineralization that include an early period(A) of massive coarse-grained galena–sphalerite deposition and a later period(B) of Sb-bearing vein-type mineralization. Period A is only associated with galena–sphalerite mineralization, whereas period B can be subdivided into ferrous rhodochrosite–sphalerite–pyrite, quartz–sulfosalt–sphalerite, calcite–pyrite, quartz–stibnite, and quartz-only stages of mineralization. The formation of brecciated galena and sphalerite ores during period A implies reworking of pre-existing Pb–Zn sulfides by Cenozoic tectonic deformation, whereas period B mineralization records extensive openspace filling during ore formation. Fluid inclusion microthermometric data indicate that both periods A and B were associated with low–medium temperature(187–267°C) and low salinity(4.00–10.18% wt. Na Cl equivalent) ore-forming fluids, although variations in the physical–chemical nature of the period B fluids suggest that this phase of mineralization was characterized by variable water/rock ratios. Microprobe analyses indicate that Fe concentrations in sphalerite decrease from period A to period B, and can be divided into three groups with Fe S concentrations of 8.999–9.577, 7.125–9.109, 5.438–1.460 mol.%. The concentrations of Zn, Sb, Pb, and Ag within orebodies in the study area are normally distributed in both lateral and vertical directions, and Pb, Sb, and/or Ag concentrations are positive correlation within the central part of these orebodies, but negatively correlate in the margins. Sulfide S isotope compositions are highly variable(4‰–13‰), varying from 4‰ to 11‰ in period A and 10‰ to 13‰ in period B. The Pb isotope within these samples is highly radiogenic and defines linear trends in 206 Pb/204 Pb vs. 207 Pb/204 Pb and 206 Pb/204 Pb vs. 208 Pb/204 Pb diagrams, respectively. The S and Pb isotopic characteristics indicate that the period B orebodies formed by mixing of Pb–Zn sulfides and regional Sbbearing fluids. These features are indicative of overprinting and remobilization of pre-existing Pb–Zn sulfides by Sb-bearing ore-forming fluids during a post-collisional period of the Himalayan Orogeny. The presence of similar ore types in the north Rhenish Massif that formed after the Variscan Orogeny suggests that Zhaxikang-style mineralization may be present in other orogenic belts, suggesting that this deposit may guide Pb–Zn exploration in these areas.     

南天山沙里塔什铅锌矿床地质特征及S、Pb同位素特征研究

沙里塔什铅锌矿床是新疆南天山多金属成矿带内重要的铅锌矿床。矿床位于南天山造山带迈丹-阔克萨勒古生代陆缘盆地,含矿层位为中泥盆世托格买提组,单个矿体呈透镜状、巢状和筒状分布在白云岩构造破碎带内,围岩蚀变较弱。矿石中金属矿物以闪锌矿、方铅矿为主。矿石金属硫化物的δ34S=-3.6‰~-12.0‰,指示硫主要来自海相硫酸盐的还原作用。矿石金属硫化物的²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁴Pb比值范围为17.8979~17.9625,²⁰⁷Pb/²⁰⁴Pb为15.5981~15.6023,²⁰⁸Pb/²⁰⁴Pb为38.1863~38.1971,结合矿石、围岩的微量及稀土元素特征判断,铅主要来自古生代沉积盆地高金属背景值的中泥盆世托格买提组。综合沙里塔什铅锌矿床的地质、地球化学特征,判定其为MVT型铅锌矿床。     

河南内乡北部铅锌银矿床成矿物质来源的S、Pb同位素制约

河南省内乡县北部大型铅锌银矿床产于北秦岭造山带朱夏断裂北侧的二郎坪地体内,形成于晚元古代—早古生代弧后盆地环境的(变质)火山-沉积建造。矿区已发现铅锌银矿(化)脉近百条,矿脉多呈板状、脉状充填于近垂直造山带的断裂构造中,其中以较大规模的Y1、Y3、Y6、Y10和Z2号脉为代表。在矿床地质研究的基础上,选取Y1、Y3、Y6和Z2号矿脉中闪锌矿矿石和Y10号矿脉中方铅矿矿石进行了S同位素组成分析,δ34SV-CDT范围为1.89‰～7.34‰,指示硫主要来源于赋矿的古生界海相地层中硫酸盐的热化学还原;矿石中方铅矿的Pb同位素组成206Pb/204Pb范围为18.229 4～18.384 5,207Pb/204Pb范围为15.608 9～15.643 4,208Pb/204Pb范围为38.516 0～38.715 2,矿石铅μ值范围为9.50～9.55,ω值范围为37.45～38.35,指示成矿金属物质来源于赋矿的古生界变质火山-沉积地层。研究表明内乡北部铅锌银矿区的成矿物质可能来自秦岭群和二郎坪地层。     

Isotopic Compositions of Sulfur in the Jinshachang Lead–Zinc Deposit, Yunnan, China, and its Implication on the Formation of Sulfur-Bearing Minerals

The Jinshachang lead–zinc deposit is mainly hosted in the Upper Neoproterozoic carbonate rocks of the Dengying Group and located in the Sichuan–Yunnan–Guizhou(SYG) Pb–Zn–Ag multimetal mineralization area in China.Sulfides minerals including sphalerite,galena and pyrite postdate or coprecipitate with gangue mainly consisting of fluorite,quartz,and barite,making this deposit distinct from most lead–zinc deposits in the SYG.This deposit is controlled by tectonic structures,and most mineralization is located along or near faults zones.Emeishan basalts near the ore district might have contributed to the formation of orebodies.The δ34S values of sphalerite,galena,pyrite and barite were estimated to be 3.6‰–13.4‰,3.7‰–9.0‰,6.4‰ to 29.2‰ and 32.1‰–34.7‰,respectively.In view of the similar δ34S values of barite and sulfates being from the Cambrian strata,the sulfur of barite was likely derived from the Cambrian strata.The homogenization temperatures(T ≈ 134–383°C) of fluid inclusions were not suitable for reducing bacteria,therefore,the bacterial sulfate reduction could not have been an efficient path to generate reduced sulfur in this district.Although thermochemical sulfate reduction process had contributed to the production of reduced sulfur,it was not the main mechanism.Considering other aspects,it can be suggested that sulfur of sulfides should have been derived from magmatic activities.The δ34S values of sphalerite were found to be higher than those of coexisting galena.The equilibrium temperatures calculated by using the sulfur isotopic composition of mineral pairs matched well with the homogenization temperature of fluid inclusions,suggesting that the sulfur isotopic composition in ore-forming fluids had reached a partial equilibrium.     

Petrogenesis of the granite related to the Baishaziling Sn deposit,Dayishan ore field,Southern China

The Baishaziling greisen-type tin deposit is located in the Dayishan ore field, Nanling Range, Southern China. In this study, for the first time, we present both zircon and cassiterite UPb dating, whole-rock elements, zircon LuHf and apatite Nd isotopic compositions to better constrain the petrogenesis of granite and its genetic link with Sn mineralization. Zircon UPb ages of fine-grained granite and coarse-grained granite are 154 ± 1.8 Ma and 153 ± 2.1 Ma, respectively, which are consistent with the cassiterite UPb dating of 154 ± 5.4 Ma, implying genetic relationship between the Baishaziling granite and tin metallogenesis. The Baishaziling granites exhibit high SiO₂, K₂O + Na₂O, Zr + Nb + Ce + Y contents, low P₂O₅ and Sr contents, and high ratios of Ga/Al, ^TFeO/(^TFeO + MgO), implying A-type granite affinity with characteristics of high-K calc-alkaline and weakly peraluminous. The zircon ε_Hf(t) values and apatite ε_Nd(t) values of the granite vary from ?4.46 to ?1.81 and ?8.37 to ?7.10, with two-stage Hf and Nd model ages of 1.40 to 1.50 Ga and 1.52 to 1.64 Ga, indicating that they were generated by the partial melt of the Proterozoic basement with the involvement of mantle magma. In addition, formation of Dayishan granite was likely associated with an intraplate extensional setting caused by the subduction of the Palaeo-Pacific plate. The Baishaziling reduced granites have high stannum and boron contents, which are in favor of the tin mineralization.     

Unveiling growth histories of multi-generational garnet in a single skarn deposit via newly-developed LA-ICP-MS UPb dating of grandite

Although garnet UPb dating method has been reported recently, yet the accurate concordia ²⁰⁶Pb/²³⁸U ages and growth histories of multi generation of garnets based on ages were still lacked. LA-ICP-MS UPb dating on multi-generational grandite (grossular-andradite) garnet from the large Tonglvshan Cu-Fe-Au skarn deposit was applied in this study. Based on petrographic observation, in chronological order, three generation garnets have been distinguished, namely homogeneous Grt1-exo (in the exoskarn zone) and Grt1-endo (in the endoskarn zone), oscillatory zoning Grt2 and vein-type Grt3 cutting magnetite ores. LA-ICP-MS UPb dating on four grandite samples from the Grt1-exo, Grt1-edno, Grt2 and Grt3 yields Tera-Wasserburg lower intercept ²⁰⁶Pb/²³⁸U ages of 139.1 ± 1.0 Ma (2σ, MSWD = 0.79), 134 ± 11 Ma (2σ, MSWD = 2.5), 143.4 ± 8.3 Ma (2σ, MSWD = 2.3) and 140.3 ± 1.4 Ma (2σ, MSWD = 0.95), respectively. More importantly, two concordia ²⁰⁶Pb/²³⁸U ages of 139.2 ± 0.6 Ma (2σ, MSWD = 1.4) and 139.8 ± 1.5 Ma (2σ, MSWD = 0.13) were firstly obtained from the sample of Grt1-exo with highest U concentrations ([U]_avg > 80 ppm) contents. The precision UPb ages of 139–140 Ma from Grt1-exo and Grt3 can be considered as the timing of Cu-Fe-Au skarn mineralization, and consistent with the majority of published zircon UPb ages of the quartz dioritic stock and ⁴⁰Ar³⁹Ar plateau ages of phlogopite at Tonglvshan (142–140 Ma). The precision grandite UPb ages also indicate that the entire metasomatic hydrothermal mineralization activity in the Tonglvshan Cu-Fe-Au skarn deposit occurred within a relatively short time span of <1 (or 2.5 considering errors) Myr. In addition, we found that the grandite garnet is more easily to be enriched in U and can obtain the high-precision concordia UPb ages with higher andradite Mol%, euhedral and larger crystals, and relevant oxidized magmatic rocks or skarns.     

Sulfur and lead isotopes of Guern Halfaya and Bou Grine deposits (Domes zone,northern Tunisia): Implications for sources of metals and timing of mineralization

The Pb–Zn ore deposits in the Guern Halfaya and Bou Grine areas (northern Tunisia) are hosted mainly by dolostones in the contact zone between Triassic and Upper Cretaceous strata and by Upper Cretaceous limestones. The deposits occur as lenticular, stratiform, vein, disseminations and stockwork ore bodies consisting of sphalerite, galena, pyrite, chalcopyrite and sulfosalt (gray copper). Barite and celestite dominate the gangue, with lesser calcite. The δ³⁴S values of barite and celestite (12.7–15.0‰) at the Oum Edeboua mine are consistent with the reduction of sulfates in Triassic evaporites within the study area (12.8 < δ³⁴S < 14.0‰). The δ³⁴S values in base-metal sulfides from both study areas (2.6–9.5‰) and the presence of bacterial relics suggest involvement of bacterially-mediated sulfate reduction in the mineralization. The present Pb isotope data are homogeneous with ²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁴Pb, ²⁰⁷Pb/²⁰⁴Pb and ²⁰⁸Pb/²⁰⁴Pb ratios of 18.723–18.783, 15.667–15.685 and 38.806–38.889, respectively, which suggest a single source reservoir of Pb at depth in the upper crust. The syn-diagenetic mineralization in the Bahloul Formation and the calculated age from the Pb isotopic data suggest an Upper Cretaceous age for the Pb–Zn deposits in the Guern Halfaya and Bou Grine areas. During this period, NE–SW to ENE–WSW trending regional extensional tectonic structures likely favored migration of mineralizing fluids and eventual deposition at Guern Halfaya and Bou Grine.     

Geological Characteristics and Genesis of the Jiamoshan MVT Pb–Zn Deposit in the Sanjiang belt, Tibetan Plateau

The carbonate-hosted Pb–Zn deposits in the Sanjiang metallogenic belt on the Tibetan Plateau are typical of MVT Pb–Zn deposits that form in thrust-fold belts. The Jiamoshan Pb–Zn deposit is located in the Changdu area in the middle part of the Sanjiang belt, and it represents a new style of MVT deposit that was controlled by karst structures in a thrust–fold system. Such a karst-controlled MVT Pb–Zn deposit in thrust settings has not previously been described in detail, and we therefore mapped the geology of the deposit and undertook a detailed study of its genesis. The karst structures that host the Jiamoshan deposit were formed in Triassic limestones along secondary reverse faults, and the orebodies have irregular tubular shapes. The main sulfide minerals are galena, sphalerite, and pyrite that occur in massive and lamellar form. The ore-forming fluids belonged to a Mg2+–Na+–K+–SO2-4–Cl-–F-–NO-3–H2 O system at low temperatures(120–130°C) but with high salinities(19–22% NaCl eq.). We have recognized basinal brine as the source of the ore-forming fluids on the basis of their H–O isotopic compositions(-145‰ to-93‰ for δDV-SMOW and-2.22‰ to 13.00‰ for δ18 Ofluid), the ratios of Cl/Br(14–1196) and Na/Br(16–586) in the hydrothermal fluids, and the C–O isotopic compositions of calcite(-5.0‰ to 3.7‰ for δ13 CV-PDB and 15.1‰ to 22.3‰ for δ18 OV-SMOW). These fluids may have been derived from evaporated seawater trapped in marine strata at depth or from Paleogene–Neogene basins on the surface. The δ34 S values are low in the galena(-3.2‰ to 0.6‰) but high in the barite(27.1‰), indicating that the reduced sulfur came from gypsum in the regional Cenozoic basins and from sulfates in trapped paleo-seawater by bacterial sulfate reduction. The Pb isotopic compositions of the galena samples(18.3270–18.3482 for 206 Pb/204 Pb, 15.6345–15.6390 for 207 Pb/204 Pb, and 38.5503–38.5582 for 208 Pb/204 Pb) are similar to those of the regional Triassic volcanic-arc rocks that formed during the closure of the Paleo-Tethys, indicating these arc rocks were the source of the metals in the deposit. Taking into account our new observations and data, as well as regional Pb–Zn metallogenic processes, we present here a new model for MVT deposits controlled by karst structures in thrust–fold systems.     

Genesis of the Jurassic Carbonate‐Hosted Pb–Zn Deposits of Jebel Ressas (North‐Eastern Tunisia): Evidence from Mineralogy,Petrography and Trace Metal Contents and Isotope (O,C, S,Pb) Geochemistry

The Jebel Ressas Pb–Zn deposits in North‐Eastern Tunisia occur mainly as open‐space fillings (lodes, tectonic breccia cements) in bioclastic limestones of the Upper Jurassic Ressas Formation and along the contact of this formation with Triassic rocks. The galena–sphalerite association and their alteration products (cerussite, hemimorphite, hydrozincite) are set within a calcite gangue. The Triassic rocks exhibit enrichments in trace metals, namely Pb, Co and Cd enrichment in clays and Pb, Zn, Cd, Co and Cr enrichment in carbonates, suggesting that the Triassic rocks have interacted with the ore‐bearing fluids associated with the Jebel Ressas Pb–Zn deposits. The δ¹⁸O content of calcite associated with the Pb–Zn mineralization suggests that it is likely to have precipitated from a fluid that was in equilibrium with the Triassic dolostones. The δ³⁴S values in galenas from the Pb–Zn deposits range from ?1.5 to +11.4‰, with an average of 5.9‰ and standard deviation of 3.9‰. These data imply mixing of thermochemically‐reduced heavy sulfur carried in geothermal‐ and fault‐stress‐driven deep‐seated source fluid with bacterially‐reduced light sulfur carried in topography‐driven meteoric fluid. Lead isotope ratios in galenas from the Pb–Zn deposits are homogenous and indicate a single upper crustal source of base‐metals for these deposits. Synthesis of the geochemical data with geological data suggests that the base‐metal mineralization at Jebel Ressas was formed during the Serravallian–Tortonian (or Middle–Late Miocene) Alpine compressional tectonics.