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The paper presents new isotopic U–Pb data (LA-ICP-MS method) of zircon from the main types of intrusive rocks at the Kuru-Tegerek gold-copper-molybdenum skarn deposit situated in the Chatkal segment of the Middle Tien Shan. This and other gold, copper, tungsten and molybdenum deposits are parts of the extended Late Paleozoic metallogenic belt of Tien Shan. The concordant isotopic U–Pb values obtained for zircon autocrysts from the rocks of sequential intrusive phases span over the interval from approximately 323 to 311 Ma. This interval comprises the crystallization of gabbro-diorite (from 323.5 ± 2.5 Ma to 323.2 ± 6.8 Ma) and tonalite (from 321.4 ± 3.8 Ma to 311 ± 3.8 Ma). The age dates obtained for these zircon autocrysts correspond to the emplacement of these moderate-potassic intrusions in the Late Carboniferous and are almost coincident with the isotopic dates previously known for the high-potassic intrusions of the porphyry Cu–Au–Mo deposits of the Almalyk mineralized cluster (Kurama segment of the Middle Tien Shan), which were also emplaced in the Late Carboniferous (about 330–310 Ma). This corresponds to the subduction tectonic regime occurred in this region in relation to the steep-dipping (in the Kurama segment) or flat (in the Chatkal segment) subduction of a tectonic plate toward the north, under the structures of the Kazakhstan–North Tien Shan continental massif and accreted segments of the Middle Tien Shan. The intrusive rocks studied at the Kuru-Tegerek deposit contain also zircon xenocrysts (including these in the core of complex crystals) with the isotopic U–Pb age of some 1.9–2.1 Ga. These dates are in agreement with the age of metamorphic rocks in the Tarim craton basement and indicate the presence of the ancient continental crust in this segment of the Middle Tien Shan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurately determining the timing and mechanism of metallogenesis of ore deposits is essential for developing a robust genetic model for their exploration. In this paper, we analyze the formation conditions of cassiterite in five major deposits of southern Hunan Province, one of the most important tungsten-tin (W-Sn) provinces in South China, using a combination of cathodoluminescence imaging, in situ U-Pb geochronology, and trace-element concentration data. In situ cassiterite U-Pb geochronology constrains the main period of Sn mineralization to between 155.4 and 142.0 Ma, demonstrating a temporal and genetic relationship to silicic intrusive magmatism in the same area. Three stages of magmatic activity and metallogenic evolution are recognized: (1) Early Paleozoic and Triassic: the initial enrichment stage of tungsten and tin; (2) Jurassic: the metasomatic mineralization stage; and (3) Cretaceous: the magmatic-hydrothermal superposition stage. The cassiterite in these deposits takes four forms, i.e., quartz vein-type, greisen-skarn-type, greisen-type, and granite-type, representing a progression characterized by the increasing content and decreasing range of variation of high field strength elements (HFSEs), and reflecting a general increase in the degree of evolution of the associated granites. Rare earth element (REE) concentrations suggest that precipitation of cassiterite was insensitive to the redox state of the fluid and that precipitation of cassiterite in the southern Hunan Sn deposits did not require a high-fO2 environment. These findings provide new insights into tin mineralization processes and exploration strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Gacun deposit is a typical Volcanic Hosted Massive Sulfide (VHMS) associated with Late Triassic seafloor calc-alkaline felsic volcanics. Studies of zircon ages, petrology, major and trace element geochemistry, and Sr-Nd-Hf isotope geochemistry of volcanic rocks from the Northern Yidun arc were undertaken in this paper. We reshaped the Gacun magmatic system activity time, defined the origin of magma evolution, and proposed a metallogenic model of the deposit. Whole-rock major element compositions of the magmatic rocks in the Northern Yidun island arc indicate that they are a complete basalt–andesite–dacite–rhyolite assemblage, showing three obvious stages of composition evolution. They are enriched in large-ion lithophile and light rare earth elements, but depleted in high field-strength and heavy rare earth elements, with weak-to-negligible Eu anomalies (obvious in rhyolite). These geochemical features indicate that the Northern Yidun island arc is a magmatic arc based on ancient continental crust. The Ganzi–Litang oceanic subduction induced mantle melting and produced calc-alkaline basaltic magma, while the MASH processes at the bottom of the crust produced andesitic magma. Part of the andesite magma erupted to form andesite lava. The remaining part was mixed with magma produced via anatexis of ancient crust (approximately 20%–40% of the ancient crustal component), forming the ore-bearing rhyolite. Zircon U-Pb age data defines Gacun magmatic–hydrothermal mineralization sequence of events: At 238 Ma, arc magmatism led to the formation of andesite in the eastern part of the deposit. At 233 Ma, in the arc zone (the western part of Gacun deposit), a large-scale bimodal magmatism formed the main ore-bearing rock series of Gacun deposit, rhyolitic volcanic rocks. At 221 Ma, volcanic eruptions tended to end and sub-volcanic intrusion occurred, forming a lava dome, which was located under the ore-bearing rhyolitic volcanic rocks. The lava dome acted as a thermal engine and promoted hydrothermal circulation. The hydrothermal activity reached a peak at 217 ± 1 Ma, and the Gacun VHMS deposit was formed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tungsten and tin deposits provide numerous valuable and critical resources to the world, which has led to them attracting the increasing attention of economic geologists. Liang et al. [[7]] used LA-MC-ICP-MS U-Pb dating of cassiterite and C-O-S-Pb isotope analyses to investigate the mineralization age and source of the ore-forming minerals in the Bawang Sn polymetallic deposit. Yan et al. [[8]] integrated biotite Ar-Ar geochronology, fluid inclusion data from quartz, and C-H-O-S-Pb isotope geochemistry from the Juyuan W deposit. [Extracted from the article]

The Zhashui-Shanyang ore cluster area is one of the most important gold polymetallic ones in northwestern China. The Qinglingou gold deposit is a newly discovered small-scale deposit in the Zhashui-Shanyang area. Gold mineralization closely related to acid intrusive rocks has been found for the first time in this area. In this paper, the geochronology, whole-rock geochemistry, and isotope signature of the granite porphyries in the deposit are studied. They are characterized by variable medium SiO2 (67.22–71.72 wt.%), high K2O + Na2O contents (6.54–10.34 wt.%), and variable Al2O3 (14.47–15.10 wt.%) values. The A/CNK ratios range from 0.90 to 1.23, and the A/NK ratios vary from 1.14 to 1.48. These rocks also contain biotite and amphiboles and are similar to peraluminous and high-K calc-alkaline I-type granites. The Qinglingou granite porphyries show relative enrichment of Rb, Th, and K, and depletion of Nb, Ta, P, Ti, and other high field strength elements. These porphyries are enriched in light rare earth elements relative to heavy rare earth elements with weak negative Eu anomalies (δEu = 0.63–0.89), which is interpreted to be the best age of crystallization of the Qinglingou porphyries. LA–ICPMS zircon U–Pb dating yields an age of 211 ± 1.2 Ma (n = 16, MSWD = 0.39). The close spatial relationship between the ore bodies and granite porphyry dikes indicates that this age may represent the metallogenic age in this area. The zircons have 176Hf/177Hf ratios ranging from 0.282625 to 0.282702, the εHf(t) values are near 0 and the two-stage zircon Hf model ages range from 1121 to 1296 Ma. These data indicate that the Qinglingou granite porphyries were derived from the interplay between mantle- and crustal-derived magmas. We therefore propose that there is potential gold in carbonate rocks at the periphery of porphyry-skarn copper-molybdenum deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Qingchengzi Pb–Zn–Au–Ag–Mo polymetallic ore field located in the Liaodong Peninsula, Liaoning Province, China, is spatially associated with multiple magmatism, which provide a classic example for studying the multiple tectonic and metallogenetic events. In this paper, we report some new geochemical and geochronological data of igneous rocks in the Qingchengzi ore field, including diabase, lamprophyre, microdiorite, granite porphyry, and quartz porphyry. Zircon U–Pb dating yielded the formation ages of these rocks as Triassic, Jurassic, and Early Cretaceous. Low‐Mg adakitic granite porphyries formed at 233 Ma have zircon εHf(t) values of −17.7 to −14.5, suggesting that they were mainly derived from partial melting of thickened lower crust. Mafic dykes formed during 226–203 Ma have zircon εHf(t) values of −28.6 to −12.8, suggesting that they were mainly derived from partial melting of ancient lithospheric mantle. Zircons from the 168Ma Jurassic diabase have high Nb/Ta and low Nb/Th ratios, with zircon εHf(t) values of −25.2 to −18.5. This suggests that ancient lithospheric mantle was influenced by melts/fluids from the subducted Palaeo‐Pacific Plate. The Early Cretaceous microdiorites (126 Ma) are high‐Mg adakite rocks, with zircon εHf(t) values of −27.3 to −19.6. Melting of delaminated eclogitic lower crust might produce these high‐Mg adakitic microdiorites. The upwelling asthenosphere could heat the residual lower crust to form the quartz porphyries. The Early Cretaceous diabase (100 Ma) shows low Nb/Ta and high Nb/Th ratios, with zircon εHf(t) values of −0.7 to 5.8, implying a depleted mantle source. The characteristics of Triassic–Cretaceous intermediate‐mafic intrusions show that the lithospheric mantle evolved from enriched ancient mantle to depleted juvenile mantle. This transformation of the lithospheric mantle might have resulted from the delamination of the lower crust that was caused by subduction of the Palaeo‐Pacific Plate. Based on the field observation and geochemical data, Au, Pb–Zn–Ag, Mo mineralization in the Qingchengzi ore field show closely spatial and genetic relationship with intrusive rocks, indicating that the Mo, Pb–Zn–Ag mineralization might be related to the Jurassic magmatic activity, whereas Au mineralization related to the Early Cretaceous magma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies the mineralization process and the ore-forming setting of the Kantian fluorite deposit in South China through the zircon U-Pb chronology, quartz Rb-Sr dating, whole rock geochemistry, H-O isotope and fluid inclusions. A mineralization model for the Kantian fluorite deposit is proposed as follows: The subduction of the Pacific plate during the late mid-Jurassic and late Jurassic led to the formation of several fault zones. As the subduction gradually decelerated and eventually ceased, continental extension and lithosphere thinning occurred, accompanied by upwelling of the asthenosphere. This asthenosphere upwelling facilitated melting of the lithospheric mantle, resulting in the ascent of magma into the lower crust. Consequently, the intrusion of magma into the lower crust caused substantial heat, triggering partial melting of the lower crust. The molten material then ascended along faults, generating a significant quantity of granites. During the Early Cretaceous period, the Yanshan cycle witnessed another notable phase of magmatic activity. The residual magmatic hydrothermal fluid from this period served as a source of heating, while the pre-existing fault structures provided favorable pathways and storage space. Atmospheric precipitation infiltrated into the depth along these faults, and the deep-seated residual magmatic hydrothermal fluid heated the infiltrated atmospheric water, inducing cyclic upwelling. The upward migration of hydrothermal fluid continuously extracted Ca and F elements from the granites. Ongoing interaction between the fluid and the surrounding rocks led to changes in pH, coupled with alterations in temperature and pressure, ultimately resulting in the precipitation of fluorite with associated alteration zones in the surrounding rocks. [Display omitted] • Ca and F element in the fluorite were derived through the surrounding rocks. • The ore-forming fluids belong to the NaCl-H 2 O system and exhibit characteristics of medium–low temperature, low salinity, and low density, and were derived from meteoric water. • The intrusion age of surrounding rock in Kantian fluorite deposit was 159.4 ± 2.2 Ma, and the ore-forming of fluorite was 135.6 ± 0.7 Ma. • The tectonic setting responsible for the diagenesis and mineralization processes is believed to be an intracontinental stretching environment associated with the subduction of the Pacific plate. The Yanshanian events have led to the development of South China as a unique granite province globally. Within South Jiangxi, numerous metallic and non-metallic deposits have a close association with Mesozoic granite formations. The Kantian fluorite deposit, a newly discovered non-metallic deposit in southern Jiangxi Province, is one such deposit that is linked to Mesozoic granites. The orebody at the Kantian fluorite deposit is identified as occurring in veined structures within the silicification fracture zone of Mesozoic granites, with strict control exerted by fault systems. Fluorite ore can be classified into two categories based on the amount of quartz and fluorite. The first category is the fluorite quartz type, which has a higher amount of quartz than fluorite. The second category is quartz fluorite type, which has more fluorite than quartz. Among these two categories, the quartz fluorite type is precipitated during the primary mineralization stage. Through the analysis of fluid inclusions within the fluorite, it was determined that the homogenization temperature is relatively low, ranging from 133 to 236℃. The fluid inclusions also display low salinity (0.18–3.39 wt% NaCl eqv.) and low density (0.75–0.96 g/cm3). Laser Raman spectroscopy revealed that the primary components of the fluid inclusions are H 2 O, with minor C 3 H 6. Isotope analysis indicated δD VSMOW values of fluorite ranging from −61.9 ‰ to −54.8 ‰ (average −59.8 ‰), while δ18O VSMOW values varied from 1.3 ‰ to 3.1 ‰ (average 2.0 ‰). This study presents chronological, petrological and geochemical data that suggest several processes. The metallogenic age is 135.6 ± 0.7 Ma. The mineralizing fluids were identified to the NaCl-H 2 O system, with heated meteoric water identified as the primary source; The ore-forming materials originated from the granite, and water–rock interactions are proposed as the primary mechanism for fluorite precipitation. Based on a tectonic setting characterized by stretching, which is closely linked to the subduction of the Pacific plate, we proposed a model for the Kantian fluorite deposit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The hydrothermal titanite associated with Au mineralization was formed at 130.8 ± 0.63 Ma. • The early Cretaceous Au mineralization overprinted the Triassic and late Jurassic Mo-Pb mineralization in Huangshui'an. • The gold precipitation mechanisms are sulfidation, collection-redissolution by LMCE melt, and changes in f Te 2 and f S 2. Huangshui'an deposit, situated in the Xiong'ershan area of Qinling orogenic belt (QOB) in China, is a globally rare carbonatite-type molybdenum polymetallic deposit that contains economic Mo, Au, Pb, and REE mineralization. The molybdenite Re-Os ages (Ca. 213.5–209.2 Ma) indicates that Huangshui'an Mo mineralization formed at Late Triassic. However, it is still unclear whether the Au mineralization is related to carbonatite dykes, and the formation age and genesis mechanism of Au mineralization remain poorly understood at Huangshui'an. This paper presents a comprehensive investigation of the Au mineralization events at the Huangshui'an deposit, including geology, mineralogy, and geochronology. The aim is to provide insights into its formation and mineralization processes and offer a broader understanding of regional Au metallogeny. Based on petrographic investigations, four stages are identified in the Au mineralization as follows: (I) quartz-K-feldspar stage; (II) quartz-pyrite-gold stage, including (IIA) pyrite-native gold sub-stage and (IIB) gold-tellurite-bismuthide sub-stage; (III) quartz-pyrite-polymetallic sulphide-oxide stage; and (IV) calcite-quartz-chlorite stage. The LA-ICP-MS titanite U-Pb dating yields a weighted mean age of 130.8 ± 0.63 Ma which determined that the Au mineralization at Huangshui'an was in the Early Cretaceous and was an independent mineralization event, which may be related to the lithosphere's destructive effect on the North China Craton (NCC). Combined with mineralography by automatic quantitative mineral analysis and testing system (TIMA), we consider that tellurium-bismuth minerals are closely associated with Au mineralization. The sulfur and tellurium fugacity of the ore-forming fluids in each stage were calculated using metal sulfide-oxides and tellurium-bismuth minerals. It was concluded that the precipitation of Au in the Huangshui'an deposit was mainly due to the combined effects of sulfidation, gold collection-redissolution by the low-melting point chalcophile elements (LMCE) melts, and the variation of sulfur fugacity and tellurium fugacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magmatic–hydrothermal breccia pipes are widespread in numerous major porphyry and epithermal gold deposits globally, representing significant repositories of metal resources and serving as potential indicators for exploration targeting. More than ten breccia pipes occur in the Central Taihangshan District (CTD) of the North China Craton. Some of these breccia pipes host gold mineralization and are proposed to be related to the adjacent lode gold mineralization. However, the lack of detailed geological constraints make this hypothesis ambiguous. To address this, the present study conducted comprehensive field observations, drill core logging, an in situ sulfur isotope analysis of pyrite, and the 40Ar/39Ar dating of adularia along a 1400 m section of the Tietangdong breccia pipe at Yixingzhai. Three distinct breccia facies were identified at Tietangdong, exhibiting variable proportions across the entire section, including a massive skarn breccia; polymictic, skarn matrix-supported breccia; and polymictic, intrusive rock cement chaotic breccia. Furthermore, adularia 40Ar/39Ar dating indicates a syn-/post-gold mineralization age of 136 ± 1.5 Ma, coinciding with the age of post-breccia felsite dike. The deepest sampled pyrite displays δ34S values of ~2.7‰, strongly indicating a magmatic–hydrothermal signature. These results, when combined with the geological, geochronological, and isotopic studies on the adjacent lode gold mineralization, further suggest a close genetic relationship between the breccia pipes and the lode Au mineralization, paving the way for their utilization as effective indicators for gold targeting within the CTD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on lithium metallogeny in geological time. The geochronological analysis was conducted on the basis of data on 71 lithium deposits distributed globally. These deposits contain almost all Li resources, which are industrially significant and of potential interest in terms of the economy. It was established that these deposits were formed in different geological epochs, from the Late Mesoarchean to the Holocene. The distribution of their resources on the scale of geological time is distinctly discrete. In the Kenoran, Columbian, and Rodinian supercontinent cycles, only pegmatite deposits of lithium were formed. In the Pangean cycle, the main resources are also attributed to pegmatite deposits, but some of them are concentrated in lithium–fluorine rare-metal granites. In the incomplete Amasian cycle, salars of geodynamically active areas play a main role in the resource base; the epithermal stratiform deposits, pegmatites, and lithium-fluorine granites are of much less significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the richest rare metal provinces in Russia occurs within the Altai–Sayan fold area, which spans the territory of the East Tuva Upland and East Sayan. The deposits of rare metals, elements, and earths formed within the province have different ages and originated in different geotectonic settings and metallogenic epochs. They are related to the intrusion of alkaline rocks, which are abundant along the fault system between the Caledonides of the Altai–Sayan fold area and the Precambrian Tuva–Mongolian Superterrane. The area of their occurrence is also recognized as the East Sayan rare metal metallogenic zone (ESMZ), which originated as a result of the mantle plume impact on the SW frame of the Siberian Platform. These geochemical and geochronological studies were conducted at the Ilee fluorite–phenakite occurrence that formed as a result of the intrusion of granitoids of the Ognit Complex into limestones of the Mongosha Formation, which became a geochemical barrier for a F- and Be-rich magmatic fluid. According to Rb‒Sr and Ar‒Ar geochronological studies, the age of subalkali granite and felsic volcanic rocks of the Ilee Sequence is the Middle Devonian (~390 Ma), which is consistent with the age estimations for rocks of the Ognit Complex. Thus, the coeval age of magmatism and ore formation at the Ilee ore occurrence indicates the contribution of Devonian magmatism to the formation of rare metal mineralization of the ESMZ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Zircon U-Pb dating results refine the emplacement age of the Xikeng pluton at 232.2 ± 1.1 Ma. • Cassiterite and wolframite U-Pb dating constrains the timing of W-Sn mineralization from Xigkeng deposit at 228.4 ± 0.90 Ma and 227.8 ± 1.60 Ma, respectively. • Source of magmatic materials was derived from reworking of crustal materials under an extensional setting. The Chongyi–Shangyou–Dayu ore-concentrated district represents one of the most important wolframite production bases in China, and most of the W-Sn deposits formed in the early Yanshanian period. The Xikeng quartz vein-type W-Sn deposit is located spatially not far from the Triassic Keshuling granitic pluton. The deposit contains 43 ore-bearing quartz veins, in which the ore minerals are mainly cassiterite and wolframite. These ore veins are concentrated in the Sinian metasandstone and sandy slate of the Laohutang Formation and extend down to the top of the concealed granite. The concealed intrusion is composed of medium- to fine-grained muscovite granites, which relate to the Indosinian Keshuling granite, according to geophysical data. Zircon grains from the concealed Xikeng granitic intrusion have a concordant U-Pb age of 232.1 ± 1.1 Ma (MSWD = 0.9). The zircon εHf(t) values range from −11.0 to −7.9, indicating primary reworking of the ancient crustal materials. Wolframite and cassiterite grains yield Tera-Wasserburg concordia intercept ages of 228.4 ± 0.9 Ma (MSWD = 1.2) and 227.8 ± 1.6 Ma (MSWD = 0.3) for the Xikeng deposit, respectively. These data demonstrate that the Indosinian W-Sn mineralization events were genetically related to granitic magma activities that share similar magmatic sources with the Yanshanian W-Sn mineralization-associated granitic intrusions. Combined with previous robust granitic and metallogenic ages, this paper identifies a new Indosinian W-Sn mineralization event in southern Jiangxi Province, Nanling Range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Qiandongshan–Dongtangzi large Pb-Zn deposit is located in the Fengxian–Taibai (abbr. Fengtai) polymetallic orefield. The ore bodies primarily occur within and around the contact surface between the limestone of the Gudaoling Formation and the phyllite of the Xinghongpu Formation, which are clearly controlled by anticline and specific lithohorizon. Magmatic rocks are well developed in the mining area, consisting mainly of granitoid plutons and mafic–felsic dikes. Previous metallogenic geochronology studies have yielded a narrow range of ages between 226 and 211 Ma, overlapped by the extensive magmatism during the Late Triassic period in this region. The ω(Co)/ω(Ni) ratio of pyrite in lead–zinc ore ranges from 4.44 to 15.57 (avg. 8.56), implying that its genesis is probably related to volcanic and magmatic-hydrothermal fluids. The δD and δ18O values (ranging from −94.2‰ to −82‰, and 18.89‰ to 20.72‰, respectively,) of the ore-bearing quartz indicate that the fluids were perhaps derived from a magmatic source. The δ34S values of ore-related sulfides display a relatively narrow range of 4.29‰ to 9.63‰ and less than 10‰, resembling those of magmatic-hydrothermal origin Pb-Zn deposits. The Pb isotopic composition of the sulfides from the Qiandongshan–Dongtangzi Pb-Zn deposit (with 206Pb/204Pb ratios of 18.06 to 18.14, the 207Pb/204Pb ratios of 15.61 to 15.71, and 208Pb/204Pb ratios of 38.15 to 38.50) is similar to that of the Late Triassic Xiba granite pluton, suggesting that they share the same Pb source. The contents of W, Mo, As, Sb, Hg, Bi, Cd, and other elements associated with magmatic-hydrothermal fluids are high in lead–zinc ores, and the contents of Sn, W, Co, and Ni are also enriched in sphalerite. The contents of trace elements and rare earth elements in the ore are similar to those in the Xiba granite pluton, and they maybe propose a magmatic-hydrothermal origin as well. As a result of this information, the Qiandongshan–Dongtangzi large Pb-Zn deposit may be classified as a magmatic hydrothermal stratabound type, with the Si/Ca contact area being the ore-forming structural plane. Thus, a mineralization model has been proposed based on a comparative analysis of the geological and geochemical properties of the lead–zinc deposit in the Fengtai orefield. It is considered that the secondary anticlines developed on both wings of the Qiandongshan–Dongtangzi composite anticline are the favorable sites for Pb-Zn deposition. Accordingly, the Si/Ca plane and secondary anticline are the major ore-controlling factors and prospecting targets. The verification project was first set up on the north wing of the composite anticline, and thick lead–zinc ore bodies were found in all verification boreholes, accumulating successful experience for deep exploration of lead–zinc deposits in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous skarn-type Sn deposits have been identified in the Nanling Range (South China), of which the Shizhuyuan W-Sn-Bi-Mo, Xianghualing Sn, Jinchuantang Sn-Bi, and Hehuaping Sn deposits are the largest. The Xianghualing deposit, which is the focus of this study, hosts a resource of 0.17 Mt Sn grading 0.93–1.39 wt% SnO2. Whether the distal skarn-type mineralization and the cassiteritesulfide vein-type orebody in the Xianghualing district are genetically related to the Laiziling granitic pluton, which produced the proximal skarn-type Sn mineralization, however, is still unknown. The Xianghualing Sn mineralization occurs exclusively as cassiterite and has been subdivided into four ore-types: (1) lenticular proximal skarn ore (Cst I) containing the mineral assemblage cassiteritepyrrhotite-chalcopyrite-actinolite-wollastonite; (2) layered distal skarn ore (Cst II) containing the mineral assemblage cassiterite-pyrrhotite-chalcopyrite-actinolite; (3) vein cassiterite-sulfide ore (Cst III) distal from the skarn and associated granite containing the mineral assemblage cassiterite-arsenopyrite-pyrrhotite-muscovite-fluorite; and (4) veinlet Sn-Pb-Zn ore (Cst IV) distal from the skarn and associated granite containing the mineral assemblage cassiterite-galena-sphalerite-topaz-quartz. Here, we report the results of in situ laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometric (LA-ICP-MS) U-Pb age determinations for garnet from the Xianghualing skarn and the above four types of cassiterite. Our age determinations indicate that there were two independent magmatic-hydrothermal events at ~160 and 156~150 Ma, both of which led to Sn mineralization. The first Sn mineralization event at ~160 Ma (Cst IV U-Pb ages of 159.6 ± 1.4 to 158.5 ± 0.8 Ma) is interpreted to have been associated with a speculative unexposed granitic pluton, which is coeval with the nearby Jianfengling granite intrusion. The second Sn mineralization event at 156~150 Ma (Cst I to Cst III U-Pb ages of 155.9 ± 0.7 to 152.3 ± 1.1 Ma and garnet U-Pb ages of 153.6 ± 7.6 to 151.5 ± 3.5 Ma) is genetically related to the adjacent Laiziling granitic intrusion (152.8 ± 1.2 Ma, zircon U-Pb age). This event was responsible for the bulk of the Sn resource (>95%). Our age determinations provide convincing evidence for superimposed Jurassic Sn mineralizing systems at Xianghualing. They also show the value of combining garnet and cassiterite U-Pb age determinations to constrain the timing of skarn and Sn mineralization and distinguish discrete Sn mineralizing events in a protracted metallogenic history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Shaolang River metallogenic belt in Inner Mongolia is one of the main lead‐zinc polymetallic belt on the northern margin of the North China Plate. The granodiorites, which are closely coexisting with lead‐zinc veins in deposit, are extensively developed. Previous geochronological research results show that the dikes and veins in the metallogenic belt belong to the products of magmatic hydrothermal activity in the middle Yanshanian, so the genesis of the metallogenic belt deposit is generally considered to be a hydrothermal vein type deposit related to sub‐volcanic dikes. We obtained zircon LA‐ICP‐MS U–Pb ages and Hf isotopic compositions of granodiorites, which are widely distributed in the deposit and were considered to be closely connected with the genesis of the deposits. The zircon U–Pb ages are 419.4 ± 1.4 Ma and 424.5 ± 4.1 Ma for the granodiorites, respectively, and they formed in the late Silurian. The geological and geochemical data indicate that the granodiorites are consistent with the geochemical characteristics of typical adakite. All εHf(t) values of the granodiorites are minus, on the zircon Hf isotope age diagram, εHf(t) are below the evolution curve of chondrite. The two‐stage model ages (tDM2) are 2.45 ~ 2.79 Ga and 1.87 ~ 2.29 Ga, respectively, showing rock‐forming materials mainly derived from the Paleoproterozoic and earlier crustal partial melting, and there may have been mantle‐derived magma underplating of the lower crust. Combining with the previous regional research, it is concluded that the granodiorites were formed during the extinction of the island arc under the background of subduction of the Paleo‐Asian Ocean and North China Craton. Because of the 125 ~ 170 Ma metallogenic age, we concluded that the granodiorites in the ore areas have no obvious relationship with the deposit genesis. However, it provided the advantageous space for the formation of the lead‐zinc veins, it can be regarded as an important prospecting indicator in metallogenic belt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garnet is the most common alteration mineral in skarn-type deposits, and the geochronological research on it can limit the mineralization age. The Longwan Pb–Zn deposit, situated within the Fozichong Pb–Zn ore field in Guangxi, lacks precise geochronological data, limiting the in-depth comprehension of its genesis and tectonic setting. This study employs LA-ICP-MS U–Pb dating of garnets developed in the skarn orebody and zircons in the associated granitic porphyry to determine the deposit's mineralization age. Backscatter electron images and electron probe microanalysis reveal common zonation characteristics in garnets from the Longwan Pb–Zn deposit, with dominant end-member compositions of Andradite and Grossular. The values of U concentrations range from 1.8 ppm to 3.7 ppm, and a garnet U–Pb age of 102.6 ± 1.9 Ma was obtained, consistent with the zircon U–Pb age of 102.1 ± 1.2 Ma from the granite porphyry within the deposit. The Longwan Pb–Zn deposit formed during the late Early Cretaceous as a skarn deposit resulting from contact metasomatism between the granite porphyry and the host rock. The deposit likely formed in response to the Neo-Tethys plate subducting beneath the South China continent during the Cretaceous, followed by a retreat during the Late Cretaceous. The Cenxi-Bobai Fault experienced reactivation under the extensional tectonic regime induced by the Neo-Tethys Ocean's retreat, leading to a series of magmatic activities along the NE-trending direction within the Fault. The Longwan Pb–Zn deposit formed during the processes of magma emplacement and contact metasomatic reactions with the country rock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zhongshangou Au-Te deposit, located in the northern margin of the North China Craton (NCC), is a vein-type mineralization and hosted in a strongly altered and locally brecciated sulfide-bearing quartz veins that crosscut granitic host rocks. Paragenetic and structural evidences confirm two modes of the Au-Ag tellurides mineralization: (1) the earlier mode is expressed by sulfides-hosted dispersed ultrafine Au-Ag tellurides (∼2–50 μm) as inclusions; (2) the later mode is represented by combinations of Au filling sulfides fractures and grain borders, associated with minor molybdenite. Re-Os pyrite and chalcopyrite ages are deemed a suitable proxy to constrain the timing of Au based on the occurrence of Au-bearing minerals as inclusions within pyrite and chalcopyrite, whereas Au-bearing minerals associated with minor molybdenite filling pyrite fractures may represent a younger ore-froming stage, which is constrained by Re-Os molybdenite geochronology. In order to understand the petrogenetic link between the Au-Te mineralization and the ore-hosting alkaline intrusion, this paper presents new situ LA-ICP-MS U-Pb dating of zircon, and detailed Re-Os sulfides (molybdenite, pyrite, and chalcopyrite) geochronology. The U-Pb age of zircons from quartz monzonite is 392 ± 3 Ma (MSWD=0.16), which is inconsistent with a previous U-Pb ages of ∼373–410 Ma obtained from Shuiquangou alkaline and granitic batholiths. Moreover, the Re-Os isotope measurement documents two well-defined isochron ages of 379.3 ± 3.8 Ma (2σ, MSWD=0.3) for four molybdenite separates and 379 ± 4.9 Ma (2σ, MSWD=0.92) for five auriferous pyrite and chalcopyrite samples from the Zhongshangou deposit. These data reveal that an important Au-Te mineralization event took place in the northern margin of the NCC at ∼380Ma, and also suggest a genetic connection with the emplacement of alkaline intrusions. [Display omitted] • The Re-Os geochronology using the low-level highly radiogenic sulfide provides a reliable constraint of ca. 379 Ma for the mineralisation. • The Re-Os geochronology of the pyrite and chalcopyrite also yield a very low initial 187Os/188Os value of 0.22 ± 0.11, which indicates a significant source from the mantle material. • The Re-Os geochronology has constrained the timing of the gold metallogeny at the northern margin of NCB and has opened new perspectives for gold exploration in the metallogenic province. The northern margin of North China Block (NCB) is a world-class gold metallogenic province with >1000 t gold, where has undergone multiphase tecto-magmatic overprinting since the Archean. Yet the genesis of the mineralization is still in doubt due to poor geochronological constraints using methods such as Ar-Ar and Rb-Sr dating. The Zhongshangou Au-Te deposit is located in the central part of the NCB gold metallogenic province, where it is structurally controlled and hosted by an amphibolite quartz monzonite phase of the Shuiquangou Alkaline Complex (SAC). Hydrothermal alteration at the deposit is characterised by an intense K-silicate assemblage with variable amounts of Fe-Mn carbonate, which is commonly observed in alkaline plutons associated with Au-Te deposits. Pyrite and chalcopyrite associated with the Au-Te mineralization contain very low common Os and yield model ages ranging from ca. 384 to 373 Ma, with a precise Re-Os isochron age of 379 ± 5 Ma (2σ, MSWD = 0.92). Analyses of molybdenite associated with the Au-Te mineralization yield precise model ages ranging from ca. 379 to 375 Ma, with a Re-Os isochron age of 379 ± 4 Ma (2σ, MSWD = 0.3). The Re-Os geochronology thus provides a reliable constraint of ca. 379 Ma for the mineralization, which is coeval with the syenite in the SAC. The Re-Os geochronology of the pyrite and chalcopyrite also yield a very low initial 187Os/188Os value of 0.22 ± 0.11, which indicates a significant source from the mantle material. Our evidence coupled with previous published data in the literature show that the Zhongshangou deposit is an alkaline pluton-hosted epithermal system related to the emplacement of the SAC in an extensional setting. The Re-Os geochronology using the low-level highly radiogenic sulfides has constrained the timing of the gold metallogeny at the northern margin of NCB and has opened new perspectives for gold exploration in the metallogenic province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review compares genetic parameters of 12 orogenic gold deposits. The set of examples is considered to represent largely the variability of orogenic gold deposit (OGD) characteristics. The data are presented in tables and include following definitive parameters: regional geologic settings, nature of hosts rocks and mineralization, ore controlling structures, ages of host rocks and mineralization and timing of mineralization relative to metamorphism, hydrothermal alteration mineralogy and ore mineral assemblages, isotopic signatures, physical conditions of ore formation and proposed origin of ore fluids aa well as gold reserves, production, and grades. This allows comparison of deposits from different geologic terrains having different ages and formed under different P-T conditions. The data are further discussed before the background of the orogenic gold system and the crustal metamorphic models that provide different scenarios to explain the source of ore fluids. The orogenic gold system model advocates a metal and fluid source external to the terrain in which mineralization occurred, but the model applies only for 3 of the 12 deposits studied. All other deposits formed most likely from a crustal source, which would favor the crustal metamorphic model. However, the formation of hypozonal OGDs cannot be accounted for by the crustal metamorphic model or by the metamorphic devolatilization model. The data identify a set of coherent signatures in OGDs, but there seem to be no unified model for all possible environmental conditions and facets of ore formation and fluid sources, tectonic and lithologic setting, and scale of gold endowment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

East Junggar is an important part of the Central Asia Orogenic Belt and has developed a multi‐epoch and multi‐type metallogenic system. Yundukala is a recently discovered large intrusion‐related Au–Cu–Co deposit. The No. 1 main mineralization zone mainly occurs in the contact area between fine‐grained diorite and basalt. Massive and vein mineralization have developed there, but the ore‐bearing stratum, ore‐bearing intrusive rocks, and metallogenic ages are not clear. Zircon SHRIMP U–Pb dating of the porphyritic diorite and fine‐grained diorite yields ages of 416.1 ± 3.9 Ma and 411.1 ± 7.5 Ma, respectively. The dioritoid intruded into the ore‐bearing stratum, indicating that this formation is part of the Early Palaeozoic strata rather than the Middle Devonian Beishan Formation. The Re–Os isochron age of the chalcopyrite in the massive mineralization is 402.6 ± 5.2 Ma; thus, the massive mineralization is related to fine‐grained diorite and formed in the Early Devonian. Six sulphides and four sulphides from the vein mineralization yield Re–Os isochron ages of 352.8 ± 1.8 Ma and 354 ± 23 Ma, respectively, and the limited vein mineralization was formed during 353–354 Ma. The massive and vein mineralizations in the Yundukala deposit were formed in the Early Devonian and Early Carboniferous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interpretation of low-temperature thermochronology (LTT) data in magmatic and metallogenic provinces requires a knowledge of the geothermal field through time. There, the challenge is differentiating rapid cooling following transient perturbations of the geotherms (reheating) from exhumational cooling induced by erosion during tectonic uplift or normal faulting. The Takab Range Complex (NW Iran) is a basement-cored range of the Arabia-Eurasia collision zone that experienced voluminous Eocene to Miocene magmatism and mineralization. Our new apatite and zircon (U-Th-Sm)/He and apatite fission track data, together with field observations, a dedicated numerical thermal model, and a re-evaluation of available geochronology data document the occurrence of a complex geological and thermal history including: (a) late Cretaceous-Paleocene exhumation possibly controlled by regional contractional deformation followed by Eocene deposition; (b) Oligocene to possibly early Miocene (29 to 22-20 Ma) exhumation of basement rocks from 13 to 8 km of depth, most likely through normal faulting during a thermal anomaly that led to migmatization and partial melting; (c) early to late Miocene (~22-20 or earlier to 11-10 Ma) regional subsidence with deposition of an up to ~2- to 3-km-thick Oligo-Miocene sedimentary sequence in association with the emplacement of shallow intrusions, which led to a partial to total reset of our LTT systems sometime between 18 and 13 Ma; and (e) erosional exhumation after 11-10 Ma with the development of a transpressional system and a master, right-lateral, strike slip fault (Chahartagh Fault). Our data highlights the impact of magmatic reheating on LTT ages in areas affected by intense magmatism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porphyry and epithermal deposits are important sources of base and precious metals. Most actively mined deposits have been exhumed such that ore bodies are relatively close to the surface and are therefore locatable and economic to extract. Identifying and characterizing concealed deposits, particularly more deeply buried porphyry deposits, represents a far greater challenge for mineral exploration, and will become progressively more important as near-surface resources are gradually exhausted over time. We report high-precision 40Ar/39Ar dates for coarsely crystalline alunite that precipitated from magmatic steam in open fractures in Oligocene dacitic volcanic rocks, and a SHRIMP 206Pb/238U zircon date for one of several rhyolite dikes present at Alunite Ridge and Deer Trail Mountain, Utah. Both the magmatic-steam alunite and rhyolite dikes are related to concealed intrusions. The rhyolite dike yielded an age of 30.72 ± 0.36 Ma, which is older than a commonly cited 27.1 Ma age estimate for the Three Creeks Tuff Member of the Bullion Canyon Volcanics that is cut by the dike. 40Ar/39Ar data for samples of magmatic-steam alunite and sericite from six mines and prospects provide evidence for at least two periods of episodic hydrothermal activity at ca. 15.7–15.1 Ma and ca. 14.7–13.8 Ma, with the older and younger pulses of activity recorded at the more eastern and western sites, respectively. These two periods of hydrothermal activity are consistent with previous interpretations that Alunite Ridge and Deer Trail Mountain are underlain by two concealed porphyry stocks. 40Ar/39Ar analyses of individual bands in a sample of massive, centimeter-scale banded vein alunite yield indistinguishable ages with a weighted mean of 13.98 ± 0.12 Ma, consistent with a short-lived (≲250 ka) magmatic event with episodic vapor discharge recurring on short timescales (≲36 ka). 40Ar/39Ar geochronology of magmatic-steam alunite is a valuable tool to constrain the timing and duration of magmatic hydrothermal activity associated with unexposed intrusions and potentially porphyry deposits, and therefore may be useful in exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magmatic zircon tends to present characteristic trends in trace element compositions in response to magma petrogenesis and metallogenesis, such that zircon may provide a window into melt evolution not accessible by whole rock chemistry. The Yangla large Cu deposit is located in the central part of the Jinshajiang Suture Zone, southwest China, constrained between the Jinshajiang and Yangla Faults. In this study, the trace elements and hafnium isotopic compositions of zircons from quartz diorite were studied. Previous published relevant data of Yangla granitoid plutons (i.e., dioritic enclave, granodiorite, and quartz monzonite porphyry) also have been systematically cited and discussed. The result shows that the crystallization temperature and two-stage Hf mode ages (tCDM; the age of the source rocks for the magmas) gradually increased while the oxygen fugacity (fO2) and εHf(t) values gradually decreased, corresponding to the diorite enclave (~232 Ma), through granodiorite (~208 Ma) and quartz monzonite porphyry (~202 Ma), and to quartz diorite (~195 Ma). It is suggested that four plutons were from the same three-component mixing of upper crust + lower crust + mantle magmas, while the upper crustal metasediments ratios were gradually increased from the early to late stage. The increasing upper crust inputs resulted in higher melting temperatures and compositions of the initial magma. All melts experienced distinct fractional crystallization of apatite, titanite, and amphibole, and the later granite melts experienced higher assimilation and fractional crystallization degrees than the early ones in the evolution processes four stages of intrusive rocks. These Yangla granitoids are the products of large-scale acid magmatic emplacement activities in the Triassic-early Jurassic and have a good metallogenic potential of the Cu-W polymetallic deposit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Baishi W-Cu deposit is located in the Nanling metallogenic belt, which is famous for its numerous W deposits and reserves. The formation age of this deposit remains unclear. In order to further infer the formation age of the deposit, this study conducted detailed LA-ICP-MS U-Pb isotopic analyses of zircon and monazite selected from ore-related Baishi granite. The LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb weighted average ages of Baishi granite were determined to be 223 ± 2 Ma and 226 ± 1 Ma, and the LA-ICP-MS U-Pb weighted average ages of monazite were determined to be 224 ± 2 Ma and 223 ± 1 Ma. The BSE image of monazite was homogeneous, and the pattern of rare earth elements had an obvious negative Eu anomaly, indicating that monazite was of magmatic origin. Combining the ages of zircon and monazite, this study inferred that Baishi granite and the Baishi W-Cu deposit formed in the Triassic. The determination of the ore-forming event of the Baishi W-Cu deposit provides new data regarding the important Indosinian (Triassic) mineralization events in the Nanling metallogenic belt and suggests that geologists should strengthen the prospecting work of Indosinian tungsten deposits in the Nanling area. In terms of tectonic setting, it was inferred that the Triassic Baishi W-Cu deposit was formed in the extensional environment after intracontinental orogeny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Gangdese metallogenic belt in Tibet is an important copper and iron polymetallic, metallogenic belt in western China. The Luobuzhen epithermal Au-Ag and Hongshan porphyry Cu deposits, as two new discovery deposits in the last few years, are located in the western Gangdese metallogenic belt. In this paper, we present quartz vein Rb-Sr isochron, zircon U-Pb and molybdenite Re-Os ages for a better understanding of the minerallogenetic epoch of the deposits. Geochronological data show that the Rb-Sr isochron age of a quartz vein in a Luobuzhen Au-Ag deposit is 21.1 ± 1.8 Ma (MSWD (mean standard weighted deviation) = 0.19), zircon U-Pb ages from diorite and granodiorite porphyry in Hongshan Cu deposit are 50.0 ± 0.4 Ma (MSWD = 0.94) and 23.7 ± 0.1 Ma (MSWD = 0.73), respectively, and a Re-Os isochron age of molybdenite in Hongshan Cu deposit is 23.0 ± 2.0 Ma (MSWD = 0.014). These data suggest that the Luobuzhen epithermal Au-Ag and Hongshan porphyry Cu deposits formed at ca. 23–21 Ma, which were controlled by the same magmatic hydrothermal events. Formation of both the Luobuzhen and Hongshan deposits were obviously earlier than the Miocene porphyry metallogenetic events in the Gangdese porphyry copper belt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Magmatic and hydrothermally altered titanite were identified in Luming deposit • U-Pb dating and Nd isotope of titanite be used to constrain the source andnature of ore-forming fluids. • Titanite has potential to act as an pathfinder mineral for the formation of porphyry Mo deposits. Northeastern (NE) China is one of the most important regions for Mo resources in China with more than 80 porphyry/skarn Mo deposits, most of which were formed in the Mesozoic. Geology, geochemistry and geochronology of individual deposits have been studied and a large amount of data was accumulated, but the factors controlling large-scale Mo mineralization in this region is still debated. To better understand the factors controlling the Mo mineralization, three typical large to giant Mesozoic porphyry Mo deposits located in NE China, namely the Daheishan (DHS), Fu'anpu (FA) and Luming (LM) deposits have been selected. In this paper, U-Pb age, elemental and Nd isotopic compositions of titanite from these deposits have been analyzed to reveal their chemical and isotopic compositions, which provide insights into the nature of source magmas and unravel the physical and chemical conditions of Mo mineralization. In-situ titanite Nd isotopic compositions from all the ore-related granites indicate that they originate from a juvenile crustal source. Titanite occurring as euhedral grains in DHS, FA and LM ore-related granites are characterized by high Th/U and LREE/HREE ratios, as well as low Lu/Hf and 147Sm/144Nd ratios, indicate a magmatic origin. In the LM-barren granite, titanite occurs as magmatic and hydrothermally altered type. The euhedral envelope-shaped magmatic titanite has the same characteristics as the titanite in DHS, FA and LM ore-related granites, with higher Th/U and LREE/HREE ratios and lower147Sm/144Nd ratios. In contrast, hydrothermally altered titanite in the LM-barren granite has lower Th/U and LREE/HREE ratios, as well as higher Lu/Hf and 147Sm/144Nd ratios, distinct Eu anomaly and tetrad effect than the magmatic titanite. In-situ magmatic titanite U-Pb dating of DHS, FA, LM ore-related granite yields crystallization ages of ca.168 Ma, ca.166 Ma and ca.178 Ma, respectively, which are consistent with the mineralization ages within error. Hydrothermally altered titanite in the LM-barren granite yields a crystallization age of 177.9 ± 2.3 Ma (MSWD = 2.3), which is indistinguishable from the LM-ore granites and molybdenite Re-Os age, implying that the formation of the Luming porphyry Mo deposit was coeval with the wall-rock alteration. Relatively homogeneous and consistent Nd isotopic compositions of magmatic titanite from LM-ore granite and hydrothermally altered titanite from LM-barren granite suggest that the hydrothermal fluids have the same origin with the granite and could be directly exsolved from the ore-forming magma. Trace element characteristics of magmatic titanite from these porphyry Mo deposits show that the magma of ore-related granite has higher oxygen fugacity and water contents than those of the LM-barren granite. Hydrothermally altered titanite in the LM-barren granite shows higher F contents than that in the magmatic titanite. The results from this study show that high Mo content in the source region is a prerequisite for the formation of porphyry Mo deposits but the specific magma composition (e.g., with abnormally high Mo contents) may be not critical. Other factors such as the higher F, oxygen fugacity and water contents are also important for Mo mineralization, which could lead to the magma evolution and accumulation of metal elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple stages of igneous rocks occur in the recently discovered Nianzigou Mo deposit in Chifeng, Inner Mongolia, which can provide insights into the late Mesozoic geodynamic evolution of the southern Da Hinggan Range. The mineralization age is similar to the age of local granites, but there are few detailed studies of the tectonic setting during Cu-Mo mineralization in this area. The Nianzigou Mo deposit is located close to the northern margin of the North China Craton and in the eastern Central Asian Orogenic Belt and is a typical quartz-vein-type Mo deposit in the Xilamulun Mo ore belt. The granite in this deposit has high SiO2, Al2O3, K2O, and Na2O contents, and low MgO, CaO, and Fe2O3t contents. The granite is characterized by enrichments in large-ion lithophile elements and depletions in high-field-strength elements and, in particular, Sr, Ti, and P. The granite has high contents of rare-earth elements, is enriched in light rare-earth elements, and has marked negative Eu anomalies. The granite is an alkaline and calc-alkaline and metaluminous A-type granite. The zircon U-Pb ages of the monzogranite and granite porphyry are 157.2 ± 0.3 and 154.4 ± 0.4 Ma. The model age obtained by Re-Os isotopic dating is 154.3 ± 1.7 Ma, indicating that molybdenite mineralization also occurred during the Late Jurassic period. Given that the molybdenite Re contents are 7.8–24.9 ppm (average = 16.8 ppm), the ore-forming materials of the Nianzigou Mo deposit had a mixed crust–mantle source, but were mainly derived from the lower crust. Based on the geology and geochemistry, we propose that the Nianzigou Mo deposit formed in a postorogenic extensional tectonic setting associated with the southward subduction of the Mongol–Okhotsk oceanic plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New LA‐ICP‐MS zircon U–Pb geochronology, whole‐rock geochemistry and Hf isotopic data have been studied on the Taipingtun granite porphyry to determine its petrogenesis and constrain the tectonic setting of the central Great Xing'an Range, northeastern China, during the Early Cretaceous. The results of zircon U–Pb dating suggest that the Taipingtun granite porphyry was emplaced during the Early Cretaceous (122–123 Ma). Geochemically, the granite porphyries have high contents of SiO2 (75.76–78.66 wt%) and (K2O + Na2O) (7.14–8.29 wt%), and low Al2O3 (11.09–12.81 wt%) and CaO (0.15–0.29 wt%), indicating peraluminous and high‐K calc‐alkaline features. Additionally, these rocks are characterized by strong Th, U, K, and Rb enrichment; Ba, Sr, P and Ti depletion; high Ga/Al ratios (10,000*Ga/Al = 2.60–4.92) and negative Eu anomalies (δEu = 0.02–0.13). According to the zircon saturation thermometer results, zircon saturation temperatures range from 756 to 959°C with an average of 823°C, displaying high magmatic temperature for the parental magma. Based on these geochemical characteristics, it can be reasonably inferred that the initial composition of the Taipingtun granite porphyry melts exhibited an A‐type magmatic affinity. Furthermore, zircon grains within the Taipingtun granite porphyry have εHf(t) values of 7.12 to 10.99 and TDM2 model ages of 476–726 Ma. The Ba/La (average 3.89), Nd/Th (average 2.25), Zr/Hf (average 22.55), Ti/Zr (average 2.96) and Rb/Sr (average 4.21) values display the characteristics of crust‐derived magmas. Moreover, these rocks have obviously negative Eu anomalies (average 0.13) and relatively high Y (average 37.83 ppm) and Yb (average 4.15 ppm) contents, suggesting the magmas are generated in a low‐pressure environment. Thus, we consider the primary magmas of the Taipingtun granite porphyry may have been predominantly derived from the partial melting of juvenile crustal rocks at low pressure. Combined with the regional geological data, we suggest that the Taipingtun granite porphyry was formed in an extensional tectonic environment, and possibly related to the subducted Palaeo‐Pacific Ocean Plate in the Early Cretaceous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Meiling Cu‐polymetallic deposit is located in the Kalatag Cu metallogenic belt of the East Tianshan, Xinjiang, NW China. Multiple‐stage hydrothermal activities have resulted in the silicification, chlorite alteration and sericite alteration in this deposit. At least three mineralization stages are recorded: (a) a phase comprising quartz–pyrite veining, (b) a quartz–chalcopyrite–pyrite–sphalerite phase and (c) a quartz–calcite phase, respectively. LA–ICP–MS zircon U–Pb dating yielded 302 ± 2.1 Ma for an ore‐bearing quartz porphyry and 296 ± 3.2 Ma for a post‐mineralization diorite porphyry dyke, respectively, indicating that the copper mineralization took place during the Late Carboniferous period (302–296 Ma). Fluid evolution during the three stages of mineralization was determined by a detailed fluid inclusion study: (a) Stage I fluids were trapped under two‐phase conditions, as evidenced by the coexistence of vapour‐rich (type II) inclusions (Th = 183–242°C, average salinity = 4.8 wt% NaCl equiv.), liquid‐rich (type I) inclusions (Th = 171–259°C, average salinity = 5.3 wt% NaCl equiv.), and daughter‐bearing (type III) inclusions (Th = 192–208°C, average salinity = 8.6 wt% NaCl equiv.). (b) Stage II fluid inclusions in quartz were also trapped under two‐phase conditions (boiling), as identified by the coexistence of V‐ and L‐type fluid inclusions; L‐type inclusions Th between 136 and 218°C (average = 189°C), with salinities of 2.2–7.6 wt% NaCl equiv. (average = 3.8 wt% NaCl equiv.). V‐type inclusions homogenized temperatures between 153 and 226°C (average = 192°C), with salinities of 2.4–6.7 wt% NaCl equiv. (average = 3.5 wt% NaCl equiv.). (c) Stage III fluids are represented by inclusions in barren quartz–carbonate veinlets, characterized by homogenization temperatures ranging from 98 to 177°C (average = 135°C) and salinities between 0.5 and 3.2 wt% NaCl equiv. (average = 1.9 wt% NaCl equiv.). The initial hydrothermal fluids are characterized by low–intermediate temperature, low‐salinity and near‐neutral pH condition, belonging to a H2O–NaCl bearing hydrothermal system. The mineralization of the Meiling deposit occurred at a shallow crustal level (~0.5 km), and the decrease of temperature was likely an important factor responsible for metal accumulation and deposition in the subvolcanic hydrothermal system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dating multiple geological events in single samples using thermochronology and geochronology is relatively common, but it is only with the recent advent of triple quadrupole laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) that in situ rubidium--strontium (Rb--Sr) dating has become a more commonly applied and powerful tool to date K-rich or Rb-bearing minerals. Here, we date two generations of mineral assemblages in individual thin sections using the in situ Rb--Sr method. Two distinct mineral assemblages, both probably associated with Au mineralization, are identified in samples from the Tropicana gold mine in the Albany--Fraser Orogen, Western Australia. For Rb--Sr purposes, the key dateable minerals are two generations of biotite as well as additional phengite associated with the younger assemblage. Our results reveal that the first, coarse-grained generation of biotite grains records a minimum age of 2535 ± 18 Ma, coeval with previous 40Ar/39Ar biotite, rhenium--osmium (Re--Os) pyrite and uranium--lead (U--Pb) rutile results. The second, fine-grained and recrystallized generation of biotite grains record an age of 1207 ± 12 Ma across all samples. Phengite and muscovite yielded broadly similar results at ca. 1.2 Ga, but data are overdispersed for a single coeval population of phengite and show elevated age uncertainties for muscovite. We propose that the ca. 2530 Ma age recorded by various geochronometers represents cooling and exhumation and that the age of ca. 1210 Ma is related to major shearing associated with the regional deformation as part of Stage II of the Albany--Fraser Orogeny. This is the first time that an age of ca. 1210 Ma has been identified in the Tropicana Zone, which may have ramifications for constraining the timing of mineralization in the region. The in situ Rb--Sr technique is currently the only tool capable of resolving both geological events in these rocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The southern Yidun Terrane formed in response to the westward subduction of the Garzê–Litang oceanic lithosphere. The Xiuwacu pluton, consisting of the Late Triassic biotite granite and Late Cretaceous monzogranite porphyry, is located in the northern portion of the southern Yidun Terrane. It hosts the Late Cretaceous quartz‐vein‐type Mo–W deposit genetically related to the intraplate monzogranite porphyry. However, the petrogenesis and magmatic fertility of the biotite granite remain unclear. Sixteen zircons from the biotite granite yield a weighted mean 206Pb/238U age of 217 ± 1.2 Ma, indicating that the biotite granite emplaced synchronously with the arc‐related andesites and porphyries in the southern Yidun Terrane. Unlike these slab melt‐derived adakitic rocks, the Xiuwacu biotite granites show typical I‐type granite affinities, with relatively high SiO2 contents, low Sr/Y ratios, and high Y contents. These granites display depleted zircon Hf isotopic signatures (ƐHf(t) = 0.6–3.8) but enriched whole‐rock Sr–Nd and zircon O isotopic signatures, suggesting that the mixing between juvenile materials and external enriched melts might have contributed to the generation of biotite granite. Moreover, they show relatively high Al2O3/(FeOT + MgO + TiO2), Th/Yb, and Th/Nb ratios, which are collectively indicative of the input of sediment melts extracted from subducting slab into the melt source of biotite granite. The high MgO, TiO2, F, and Cl contents of biotite and the excess Al of plagioclase suggest that the Xiuwacu biotite granites formed under high oxygen fugacities, magmatic water contents, and volatiles components and they might have Cu prospecting potentials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesozoic magmatism and lithospheric destruction in East China exerted significant control on gold metallogeny. Here, we investigate the mineralogy, geochemistry, geochronology, and isotopic systematics of the Dongyang gold deposit in southeast China to constrain its origin and geodynamics. This is a newly discovered epithermal gold deposit along the Circum–Pacific metallogenic belt and is characterized by intense silicification and sericitization. The C–H–O isotope data suggest deep magmatic sources of the ores and indicate that the ore‐forming fluids comprised a mixture of magmatic water and meteoric water. The S–Pb values of the pyrite indicate magmatic origin for the sulfur, and deposit was derived mostly from crustal sources, mixed with mantle materials. The Rb–Sr dating of the pyrite from the ore deposit shows an age of 164.2 ± 9.9 Ma, whereas the zircon U–Pb SHRIMP ages of the rhyolite porphyry is 160.9 ± 0.5 Ma, suggesting that the timing of mineralization is close to that of the crystallization of the dykes. In conjunction with previous studies on similar deposits, we suggest that the gold mineralization was the response of continental lithospheric thinning in southeast China triggered by the subduction of the Palaeo‐Pacific Ocean Plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Dacaoping and Sadaigoumen Mo deposits were recently discovered along the northern margin of the North China Craton. The newly determined Re–Os isochronous age of molybdenite from the Dacaoping Mo deposit is ca. 147 Ma, and the Re–Os model age of molybdenite from the Sadaigoumen Mo deposit is ca. 248 Ma, which represents two of their respective mineralization stages. Combined with previous data, we suggest four phases of mineralization in the Dacaoping and Sabagaogoumen Mo deposits; these phases are 248, 236, 147, and 140 Ma. The Early Triassic monzogranite and Early Cretaceous granodiorite in the Dacaoping Mo deposit and the Middle Triassic monzogranite in the Sabagaogoumen Mo deposit are I‐type granite with similar geochemical characteristics. The Triassic granites formed in a collisional–post‐collisional setting between the North China Plate and the Siberian Plate, and the Cretaceous granodiorite formed from the rapid thinning of the lithosphere. The partial melting of the lower crust is the main reason for their formation, and small amounts of mantle‐derived components were added. Compared to other Mo deposits in the region, we can further divide these Mo deposits into three phases, namely, (a) Triassic (ca. 248–223 Ma), (b) Early–Middle Jurassic (ca. 187–165 Ma), and (c) Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous (ca. 155–130 Ma), which are consistent with the times of magmatic activity. These activities occurred during the collision and post‐collision between the North China Plate and the Siberian Plate after the Paleo‐Asian Ocean's closure, intracontinental orogeny, and rapid thinning of the lithosphere, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cuihongshan deposit is a giant Fe‐polymetallic skarn deposit located in the northern zone of the Lesser Xing'an–Zhangguangcai Range (LXZR), NE China. It is predominantly hosted in skarn contact zones between marble and alkali‐feldspar granites and monzogranites, with minor in fracture zones of granodiorites. Because of dense vegetation cover, complex intrusions, and contact relation between orebodies and rocks, the metallogenesis of the deposit is poorly understood. Here, we present detailed whole‐rock geochemistry, zircon U–Pb geochronology of granitoids, and molybdenite Re–Os isotopic dating data. All of the granitoids in the Cuihongshan deposit area are silica and potassium rich, highly fractionated, showing affinities to high‐fractionated I‐type granites. However, compared with the other granitoids, the Late Triassic alkali‐feldspar granites have higher differentiation index, stronger enrichment in F, W, Mo, Pb, Th, U, and volatiles with partial mineralization. The zircon U–Pb dating of the granodiorite, monzogranite, and alkali‐feldspar granite yielded weighted average ages of 493 ± 4, 194 ± 1, and 204 ± 1 Ma, respectively. The Re–Os dating of molybdenites from the Cuibei and Cuizhong ore sections yielded isochron ages of 205 ± 2 and 204 ± 4 Ma, respectively, which are consistent with the emplacement age of the alkali‐feldspar granite. Combined with the lines of evidence from the contact relationship between the orebodies and alkali‐feldspar granite, the disseminated mineralization and the enrichment in ore‐forming elements and volatiles in the alkali‐feldspar granite, these indicate that the Late Triassic alkali‐feldspar granite rather than the monzogranite as previously reported, has a close genetic relationship with the Cuihongshan deposit. In addition, the alkali‐feldspar granites occur as apophyses and dikes, but the Late Cambrian and Early Jurassic granitoids occur as batholiths. This indicates that, according to the theory that "small intrusions form large deposits", a potential Late Triassic (~204 Ma) buried batholith might have provided abundant ore‐forming materials. However, the top parts of the Late Cambrian and Early Jurassic granitoids have been denudated, which is unfavourable for significant deposit preservation and mineralization related to the 2 stages of granitoids. This study gives a significant suggestion that exposed, and blind apophyses and dikes should be further considered in the exploration and study of metal deposits in NE China. Three phases of mineralization occurred in the LXZR in the Triassic–Jurassic, namely, porphyry–skarn Cu–Mo polymetallic mineralization (~250–240 Ma), skarn Fe–Pb–Zn polymetallic mineralization (~204–190 Ma), and porphyry Mo polymetallic mineralization (~180–160 Ma). On the basis of regional data, the LXZR experienced subduction and collisional settings during ~260–185 Ma and ~180–160 Ma, respectively. Hence, the Early Triassic (~250–240 Ma) and Late Triassic–Early Jurassic (~204–190 Ma) mineralizations represented by the Baoshan and Cuihongshan deposits, respectively, are related to the early and late subduction of the oceanic plate between the Songliao and Jiamusi massifs beneath the Songliao Massif, respectively. This also indicates a potential mineralization in the LXZR in the Middle Triassic. However, the genesis of the late large‐scale porphyry Mo polymetallic deposits (~185–160 Ma; e.g., Daheishan, Luming, Huojihe, Xinghualong, Xingshan, and Wulugetushan deposits) is constrained by the collision of the Songliao and Jiamusi massifs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Jinchanghe Fe-Cu-Pb-Zn polymetallic deposit is located in the northern Baoshan block in the Sanjiang metallogenic belt, southwestern China, and is one of the major large-scale Pb-Zn polymetallic deposits. This region is characterized by numerous diabase intrusions; however, research work is limited. This study elucidated systematic geochemistry and chronology of the diabase closely associated with orebodies in Jinchanghe to provide constraints for magma evolution. The results indicated that the Jinchanghe diabase was enriched in CaO, MgO, and Al2O3 and depleted in TiO2 and P2O5. Large ion lithophile elements were depleted, while for high field strength elements, the ratio of LREEs but depleted in HREEs. The zircon U-Pb dating results suggested that the diabase age could be divided into two stages, indicating the occurrence of two-stage tectonic-magmatic events in the Late Triassic and Early Cretaceous. The results also suggested that the metallogenic age of the Jinchanghe deposit is the Early Cretaceous. Moreover, the age was closely related to the collision after the closure of the mid-Tethys Ocean in the Early Cretaceous. Therefore, the results of this study provide new evidence for the tectonic-magmatic evolution and mineralization of the Baoshan block. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Kultuma deposit is among the largest and most representative Au–Cu–Fe–skarn deposits situated in Eastern Transbaikalia. However, its genetic classification is still a controversial issue. The deposit is confined to the similarly named massif of the Shakhtama complex, which is composed mainly of quartz monzodiorite-porphyry and second-phase monzodiorite-porphyry. The magmatic rocks are characterized by a low Fe2O3/FeO ratio, low magnetic susceptibility and belong to meta-aluminous, magnesian high-potassic calc-alkalic reduced granitoids of type I. The results of 40Ar-39Ar and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) U-Pb dating showed that the formation of magmatic rocks proceeded during the Late Jurassic time: 161.5–156.8 Ma. Relatively low Ce/Ce*, Eu/Eu* and Dy/Yb ratios in the zircons indicate that the studied magmatic rocks were formed under relatively reduced conditions and initially contained a rather low amount of magmatic water. A mineralogical–geochemical investigation allowed us to outline five main stages (prograde skarn, retrograde skarn, potassic alteration, propylitic (hydrosilicate) alteration and late low-temperature alteration) of mineral formation, each of them being characterized by a definite paragenetic mineral association. The major iron, gold and copper ores were formed at the stage of retrograde skarn and potassic alteration, while the formation of polymetallic ores proceeded at the stage of propylitic alteration. The obtained timing of the formation of retrograde skarn (156.3 Ma) and magmatic rocks of the Shakhtama complex, along with the direct geological observations, suggest their spatial–temporal and genetic relationship. The data obtained on the age of magmatic rocks and ore mineralization are interpreted as indicating the formation of the Kultuma deposit that proceeded at the final stages of collision. Results of the investigation of the isotope composition of S in sulfide minerals point to their substantial enrichment with the heavy sulfur isotope (δ34S from 6.6 to 16‰). The only exclusion with anomalous low δ34S values (from 1.4 to 3.7‰) is pyrrhotite from retrograde skarns of the Ochunogda region. These differences are, first of all, due to the composition of the host rocks. Results of the studies of C and O isotope composition allow us to conclude that one of the main sources of carbon was the host rocks of the Bystrinskaya formation, while the changes in the isotope composition of oxygen are mainly connected with decarbonization processes and the interactions of magmatic fluids, host rocks and meteoric waters. The fluids that are responsible for the formation of the mineral associations of retrograde skarns and the zones of potassic alteration at the Kultuma deposit were reduced, moderately hot (~360–440 °C) and high-pressure (estimated pressure is up to 2.4 kbar). The distinguishing features of the fluids in the zones of potassic alteration at the Ochunogda region are a lower concentration and lower estimated pressure values (~1.7 kbar). The propylitic alteration took place with the participation of reduced lower-temperature (~280–320 °C) and lower-pressure (1–1.2 kbar) fluids saturated with carbon dioxide, which were later on diluted with meteoric waters to become more water-rich and low-temperature (~245–260 °C). The studies showed that the main factors that affected the distribution and specificity of mineralization are magmatic, lithological and structural–tectonic ones. Results of the studies allow us to classify the Kultuma deposit as a Au–Cu–Fe–skarn deposit related to reduced intrusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The boundary between the Gondwana and Yangtze plate is still controversial. In southwest China, the Sanjiang region marks the collision zone which accreted several blocks coming from the northern Gondwana margin. In this region, subduction of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean and associated continental blocks during the Triassic Period led to the formation of an N–S trending complex involving intrusive and volcanic rocks. The intrusive rocks are important for constraining the evolution of the Paleo-Tethyan in southwestern China. This study presents new geochronological, geochemical, and Sr-Nd-Hf isotopic data of granite porphyries from northern Lancangjiang, in order to discuss the origin of these granites and their tectonic significance. Representative samples of the Zengudi and the Tuobake granite porphyries from the Yezhi area yielded weighted mean 206Pb/238U ages of 247–254 Ma and 246 Ma, respectively. The Zengudi granite porphyries display zircon ԐHf(t) values of −12.94 to −2.63, ԐNd(t) values of −14.5 to −9.35, and initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios of 0.708 to 0.716. The Tuobake granite porphyries have zircon ԐHf(t) values of −14.06 to −6.55, ԐNd(t) values of −10.9 to −9.41, and initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios of 0.716 to 0.731. Both the Zengudi and Tuobake granite porphyries exhibit strongly peraluminous signatures with high A/CNK nAl2O3/(K2O + Na2O + K2O) ratios (1.07–1.86 and 0.83–1.33, respectively). These granites are enriched in Rb and Th, and depleted in Ti, Nb, Ta, Sr, and P, with negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* < 0.61). These geochemical and isotopic data indicate that the primary magma of the granite porphyries originated from partial melting of ancient continental crust as a result of basaltic magma underplating and underwent fractionation crystallization during their emplacement. We propose that the Triassic subduction of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean led to crust shortening and thickening in the Sanjiang region, while the northern Lancangjiang area was involved in the continental collision after the subduction of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean before 254 Ma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The northern flank of the North China Craton (NCC) hosts a linear zone of gold, molybdenum, silver, lead, and zinc polymetallic ore deposits. Among these, the Yingfang Pb-Zn-Ag deposit is located in the central part of the Yanshan–Liaoxi metallogenic belt (YLMB) which extends for approximately 1000 km and forms part of the major mineralized zone. In this study, we characterize the mineralization and trace the ore genesis based on new sulfur and lead isotopic geochemistry and evaluate the timing of mineralization from Rb-Sr isotope dating of sulfides. The pyrite δ34S values range from +3.2‰ to +5.8‰ with a mean at +4.07‰, close to the values of mantle and meteorite sulfur. The 206Pb/204Pb values range from 16.833 to 18.956, 207Pb/204Pb from 15.374 to 15.522, and 208Pb/204Pb from 37.448 to 37.928. Five samples of sulfide, from the Yingfang deposit, yield a Rb-Sr isochron age of 135.7 ± 4.1 Ma. This age is close to the age of the adjacent Niujuan Ag-Au deposit and the associated Er'daogou granite, suggesting a close relationship between magmatism and metallogeny in this region. The S and Pb isotopes of the regional silver polymetallic deposits show similar sources of ore-forming materials. According to a compilation of the available age data on the Mesozoic ore deposits in the northern flank of the NCC, we divide the mineralization into the following four periods: 240–205 Ma, 190–160 Ma, 155–135 Ma, and 135–100 Ma. Mesozoic magmatism and mineralization in the Yingfang deposit mainly took place at 245 Ma and 145–135 Ma. We correlate the Pb-Zn-Ag mineralization to metallogeny associated with large-scale inhomogeneous lithosphere thinning beneath the NCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constraining the duration of magmatism is of vital importance to the understanding of the magmatic-hydrothermal mineral system. The Bozhushan batholith, located in the middle section of the southeastern Yunnan ore district, mainly consists of biotite monzogranite and monzogranite. Many Sn–W–polymetallic deposits are developed around the Bozhushan batholith, but their temporal and genetic relationships remain controversial. LA-ICP-MS U–Pb zircon and monazite dating were respectively conducted on the same two samples, yielding weighted mean 206Pb/238U zircon ages of 85.1 ± 0.7 and 85.6 ± 0.9 Ma, and weighted mean 206Pb/238U monazite ages of 87.1 ± 0.9 and 88.1 ± 1.1 Ma. The crystallization ages of S-type granites obtained from the zircon U–Th–Pb system and monazite U–Th–Pb system are consistent within the analytical errors. After combining the new ages obtained in this study with recently published U–Pb zircon and cassiterite ages from the giant Baniuchang Ag–Sn–Pb–Zn deposit in the north, and U–Pb zircon and Re-Os molybdenite ages from the large Guanfang W deposit in the south, a temporal framework of magmatism-mineralization in the Bozhushan region has been established. The duration of magmatic activity at Bozhushan is about 7 Ma, with W mineralization occurring at ca. 92 Ma and Sn mineralization at 88–87 Ma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents new Sm–Nd and U–Pb geochronological data on rocks of the poorly studied Pados-Tundra Cr-bearing complex. It is part of the Notozero mafic–ultramafic complex (western Kola Peninsula) and occurs at the border of the Paleoproterozoic Lapland Granulite Belt and the Archean Belomorian composite terrain. The Pados-Tundra complex hosts two major zones, the Dunite and Orthopyroxenite Blocks. Dunites are associated with four levels of chromite mineralization. Isotope Sm–Nd studies of dunites, harzburgites, and orthopyroxenites from the central part of the complex have been carried out. The isochron Sm–Nd age on 11 whole-rock samples from a rhythmically layered series of the complex is 2485 ± 38 Ma; the mineral Sm–Nd isochron for harzburgites shows the age of 2475 ± 38 Ma. It corresponds with the time of large-scale rifting that originated in the Fennoscandian Shield. When the rhythmically layered series of the intrusion and its chromite mineralization were formed, hornblendite dykes intruded. The U–Pb and Sm–Nd research has estimated their age at ca. 2080 Ma, which is likely to correspond with the occurrence of the Lapland–Kola Ocean. According to isotope Sm–Nd dating on metamorphic minerals (rutile, amphibole), the age of postmetamorphic cooling of rocks in the complex to 650–600 °C is 1872 ± 76 Ma. The U–Pb age on rutile from a hornblendite dyke (1804 ± 10 Ma) indicates further cooling to 450–400 °C. The conducted research has determined the early Proterozoic age of rocks in the rhythmically layered series in the Pados-Tundra complex. It is close to the age of the Paleoproterozoic ore magmatic system in the Fennoscandian Shield that developed 2.53–2.40 Ga ago. Later episodes of alterations in rocks are directly related to main metamorphic episodes in the region at the turn of 1.9 Ga. Results of the current study expand the geography of the vast Paleoproterozoic East Scandinavian Large Igneous Province and can be applied for further studies of similar mafic–ultramafic complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Daocheng batholith consists of granite, granodiorite and K-feldspar megacrystic granite, which is located in the north Yidun Arc. It is a barren batholith in contrast to plutons of the same age that contain major copper deposits, such as Pulang to the south. In the Daocheng, abundant mafic microgranular enclaves (MMEs) mainly developed within granodiorite and K-feldspar megacrystic granite, which are characterized by quenched apatite, quartz eyes and plagioclase phenocrysts. LA-ICP-MS zircon U–Pb dating of host granodiorite yielded ages ranging from 223 Ma to 210 Ma, with a weighted mean of 215.3 ± 1.8 Ma. Zircons from MMEs yielded ages ranging from 218 Ma to 209 Ma, with a weighted mean of 214.2 ± 1.4 Ma. Geochemical analyses show that granodiorite is high-K, calc-alkaline and I-type, with SiO2 contents ranging from 67.90% to 70.54%. These rocks are metaluminous to marginally peraluminous (A/CNK = 0.98–1.00) and moderately rich in alkalis with K2O ranging from 3.28% to 4.59% and Na2O ranging from 3.18% to 3.20%, with low MgO (1.08%–1.29%), Cr (12.7 ppm–16.8 ppm), Ni (5.19 ppm–6.16 ppm) and Mg# (35–49). The MMEs have relatively low SiO2 contents (56.34%–60.91%), higher Al2O3 contents (16.06%–17.98%), higher MgO and FeO abundances and are metaluminous (A/CNK = 0.82–0.83). The MMEs and host granodiorite are enriched in light rare-earth elements (LREEs) relative to heavy rare-earth elements (HREEs), with slightly negative Eu anomalies, and enriched in Th, U and large ion lithophile elements (LILEs; e.g., K, Rb and Pb), and depleted in high field strength elements (HFSEs; e.g., Nb, Ta, P and Ti), showing affinities typical of arc magmas. The zircon εHf(t) values (−6.28 to −2.33) and ancient two-stage Hf model ages of 1.92 to 1.25 Ga, indicating that the magmas are generally melts that incorporated significant portions of Precambrian crust. The relatively low silica contents and high Mg# values of the MMEs, and the linear patterns of MgO, Al2O3 and Fe2O3 with SiO2 between the MMEs and host granodiorite, showing the formation of MMEs are genetically related to magma mixing. The Daocheng granodiorite is characterized by much lower zircon Ce4+/Ce3+ (average of 3.53) and low fO2 value (average of ∆FMQ = –10.84), whereas the ore-bearing quartz monzonite porphyries in the Pulang copper deposit are characterized by much higher zircon Ce4+/Ce3+ (average of 52.10) and high fO2 value (average of ∆FMQ = 2.8), indicating the ore-bearing porphyry intrusions had much higher fO2 of magma than the ore-barren intrusions considering that the high oxygen fugacity of the magma is conducive to mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicocarbonate pegmatites from the southern Grenville Province have provided exceptionally large crystal specimens for more than a century. Their mineral parageneses include euhedral calc–silicate minerals such as amphibole, clinopyroxene, and scapolite within a calcite matrix. Crystals can reach a meter or more in long dimension. Minor and locally abundant phases reflect local bedrock compositions and include albite, apatite, perthitic microcline, phlogopite, zircon, tourmaline, titanite, danburite, uraninite, sulfides, and many other minerals. Across the Adirondack Region, individual exposures are of limited aerial extent (<10,000 m2), crosscut metasedimentary rocks, especially calc–silicate gneisses and marbles, are undeformed and are spatially and temporally associated with granitic pegmatites. Zircon U–Pb results include both Shawinigan (circa 1165 Ma) and Ottawan (circa 1050 Ma) intrusion ages, separated by the Carthage-Colton shear zone. Those of Shawinigan age (Lowlands) correspond with the timing of voluminous A-type granitic magmatism, whereas Ottawan ages (Highlands) are temporally related to orogenic collapse, voluminous leucogranite and granitic pegmatite intrusion, iron and garnet ore development, and pervasive localized hydrothermal alteration. Inherited zircon, where present, reflects the broad range of igneous and detrital ages of surrounding rocks. Carbon and oxygen isotopic ratios from calcite plot within a restricted field away from igneous carbonatite values to those of typical sedimentary carbonates and local marbles. Collectively, these exposures represent a continuum between vein-dyke and skarn occurrences involving the anatexis of metasedimentary country rocks. Those of Ottawan age can be tied to movement and fluid flow along structures accommodating orogenic collapse, particularly the Carthage-Colton shear zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lyangar W-Mo skarn deposit is located in the Nuratau area (western Uzbekistan), South Tianshan Orogen. The skarn system is distributed along the contact zone between the Aktau granitoid and the upper Paleozoic sedimentary rocks. Six molybdenite samples from the Lyangar deposit yielded a Middle Permian Re-Os isochron age of 268.0 ± 12.0 Ma (MSWD = 0.43) and a weighted mean age of 263.8 ± 1.5 Ma (MSWD = 0.22). Molybdenites have low Re contents (12.49 to 16.65 ppm), indicative of a continental crust-dominated source. The molybdenite δ34S values fall inside a narrow range (1.0 to 3.8‰; average 2.3‰), implying that the ore metals were likely derived from the granite intrusion. We concluded that the Lyangar W-Mo deposit was formed in a post-collisional setting caused by continental collision between the Tarim and Kazakhstan cratons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The newly discovered Magushan Cu-Mo polymetallic deposit, located in southeastern Anhui, eastern China, is a middle-scale skarn-type polymetallic deposit with different ore types of veinlets-disseminated skarn (the primary type), quartz veins, and porphyry. LA-ICP-MS zircon U–Pb analyses yielded a crystallization age of 135.7 ± 1.5 Ma for the ore-related granodiorite in Magushan. The granodiorites are I-type granites in nature, characterized by metaluminous and high-K calc-alkaline characteristics. They are enriched in large ion lithophile elements (LILEs, e.g., Ba, Th, and U) and light rare earth elements (LREEs), and depleted in high field strength elements (NFSEs, e.g., Nb, Ta, and Ti) and heavy rare earth element (HREEs), with slightly negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.81–0.86). These granodiorites show high Mg# (mainly > 40) values, high MgO (1.73–1.96 wt. %) and low Na2O (<4.21 wt. %) contents, with whole-rock (87Sr/86Sr)i ratios (0.708877 to 0.710398), negative εNd(t) values of −5.4 to −5.2, and negative zircon εHf(t) values of −4.60 to −1.37, with old two-stage Hf model ages (TDM2) between 1.2‒1.5 Ga. Besides, they are characterized by high radiogenic Pb isotopic compositions with (206Pb/204Pb)i = 18.44–18.56, (207Pb/204Pb)i = 15.66–15.67, and (208Pb/204Pb)i = 38.77–38.87. These granodiorites are characterized by high zircon Ce4+/Ce3+ ratios (average 893) and Eu/Eu* ratios (average 0.51), indicating high magmatic oxygen fugacities. The distinct geochemical and isotopic features suggest that the Magushan granodiorites could be formed by metasomatized mantle-derived magmas, mixing with materials from Neoproterozoic crust that is widely distributed in the Southern Anhui. This study concludes that the formation of the Magushan Cu-Mo polymetallic deposits may largely depend on an oxidizing environment and multi-sources mixed of mantle- and crust-derived materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recently discovered Dongbulage Mo-polymetallic deposit is located in the southern part of the Great Xing'an Range, northeast China. Mineralization is closely related to the emplacement of Middle–Late Jurassic granitoids. In order to understand the petrogenetic link between mineralization and host granitoids, this study presents new zircon U–Pb ages, bulk-rock geochemistry, and molybdenite Re–Os ages for the Dongbulage deposits. LA-ICP-MS zircon U–Pb dating of the monzogranite and syenogranite intrusions yielded two weighted mean 206Pb/238U ages: of 164 ± 2 Ma and 165 ± 3 Ma, respectively. The subvolcanic rocks (red porphyritic granite and rhyolite) yielded a time interval between 161 ± 2 and 162 ± 3 Ma. In addition, molybdenite from the Dongbulage deposit gave a Re–Os isochron age of 162.6 ± 1.5 Ma, which was interpreted as the age of the mineralization. The new geochronology has established the close temporal and genetic relationships between the mineralization event and the emplacement of the Middle–Late Jurassic granitoids. Bulk-rock geochemistry shows that the Dongbulage granitoids are characterized by high SiO2, K2O, and A/CNK [Al2O3/(CaO + Na2O + K2O)(molar ratio)] values, and low TiO2, CaO, and MgO values, indicating a metaluminous to peraluminous, high-K calc-alkaline affinity. The granitoids also featured enrichments of large ion lithophile elements and light rare earth elements (LREE), and a relative depletion of high field strength elements (HFSE), along with an increasing negative δEu anomaly. The high differentiation index (DI), ranging from 81.75 to 94.76, and obvious fractionation between LREE and HREE, indicate that the Dongbulage granitoids are highly fractionated, metaluminous–peraluminous, and high-K calc-alkaline I-type granites. Combined with the regional geology, the Dongbulage granitoids may have formed during post-orogenic extension that followed the Mongol–Okhotsk Ocean closure coeval with subduction of the paleo-Pacific plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]