Low-sulfide PGE mineralization in layered intrusion ring,Vestfold Hills,Antarctica

This paper presents results of the study of norite complex from the Vestfold Hills (East Antarctica) containing a low-sulfide type of mineralization. The ore mineralization occurs in specific rock types and along the contact of norites the host rocks. Three mineralization types: Fe–Ni–Cu sulfide, oxide, and PGE-bearing are known. PGE mineralization is represented by palladium–bismuth tellurides of the michenerite–merenskyite series. A model of ore-formation succession and a concept of the origin of low-sulfide PGE mineralization by means of crystallization and subsequent evolution of monosulfide and intermediate solid solutions have been developed.