A lead isotope study of two sulphide deposits and adjacent igneous rocks in south-central Sweden

Two sulphide ore deposits, Svärdsjö and Åmmeberg, occurring in the Bergslagen ore district in south-central Sweden have been examined for their Pb isotope compositions. Analyses of the ore lead reveals a great isotopic homogeneity, with compositions that nearly coincide with results obtained from other deposits in the area. The Stacey and Kramers growth model for Pb in conformable ores yields model ages, however, that are 100–150 Ma too low in comparison with the accepted geological ages. Isotopic data from whole rocks and mineral separates indicate an open system behaviour with respect to U and Pb. On the basis of geological/geochemical evidence the sulphide ores in Bergslagen are considered to have formed by volcanic-exhalative processes. The ore lead is interpreted as a mixture of newly added mantle-material and a minor Archean component. It is likely that the main part of the ore lead was derived from volcanic source rocks, but most probably sediments, interbedded in the volcanic succession also played some role.