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Carlin-type gold deposits are among the most important gold-bearing hydrothermal ore systems and are mainly located in Nevada, USA, and southwestern China. However, the source and evolution of the ore-forming fluids for these deposits remain controversial, especially those found within China. In this study, lithium and oxygen isotopic analyses of quartz-hosted fluid inclusions are used to elucidate the source and evolution of the giant Shuiyindong Carlin-type gold deposit. Fluid inclusions trapped in quartz of three distinct genetic stages have low salinity (0.8–6.3wt% NaCl equiv.) and moderate temperature (154–343 °C), but display variable Li and O isotope signatures. The Li and O isotopes of stage I fluids (δ7Li values from + 5.1 to + 9.1‰; δ18O values from + 6.3 to + 10.0‰) indicate predominantly a magmatic source for the initial ore-forming fluids. The large variations of Li and O isotopes of stage II fluids (δ7Li values from + 9.3 to + 16.0‰; δ18O values from + 0.1 to + 7.7‰) suggest that the fluids are controlled by mixing of magmatic fluids and meteoric water, which in turn triggered the precipitation of gold-bearing sulfides. The isotopic compositions of stage III fluids (δ7Li values from + 15.5 to + 22.8‰; δ18O values from − 5.4 to − 2.8‰) confirm that the final fluids are dominated by meteoric water. Furthermore, this work demonstrates that the combined Li–O isotopic analysis of fluid inclusions is a powerful tracer to decode the source and evolution of ore-forming fluids in hydrothermal mineralizing systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gold in Carlin-type gold ores is commonly hosted in the arsenian pyrite rim, but the formation of arsenian pyrite and its contribution to Au adsorption are poorly understood. Based on our previous NanoSIMS Au mapping, we conducted SEM and HR-TEM analyses to examine the Au deportment and nanoscale texture of individual auriferous arsenian pyrite grains from the giant Carlin-type Lannigou gold deposit, SW China. The results indicate that the arsenian pyrite rim is composed of numerous nanoparticulate pyrite grains (rather than a single crystal), and gold nanoparticles (Au0) occur mainly in sub-rim with the highest Au content, which are porous and have lower degrees of order. We propose that nanoparticulate arsenian pyrite attachment and aggregation is the main mechanism for the arsenian pyrite rim growth, and such mechanism is crucial for the Au efficient enrichment for this giant gold deposit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of Carlin-type gold deposits is poorly constrained, mainly due to the lack of accurate ages for gold mineralization. The Youjiang basin, SW China, represents the world's second-largest Carlin-type gold province after NV, USA. In this paper, we use hydrothermal apatite U–Th–Pb dating to systemically determine the mineralization ages of five Carlin-type gold deposits, namely, Shuiyindong, Jinfeng, Zimudang, Linwang, and Jinya, in the Youjiang basin. The hydrothermal apatite is characterized by intimate intergrowth with gold-bearing sulfides, presence of primary fluid inclusions, irregular morphology and cathodoluminescence zoning, and MREE-enriched composition patterns, indicating that it is clearly associated and coeval with gold mineralization. The concentrations of lattice-bound U and Th in the apatite are highly variable, making it suitable for in situ secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) U–Th–Pb dating. The dating results of hydrothermal apatite from the five deposits show that they formed at ca. 150–140 Ma, contemporary with the widespread felsic magmatism and associated W–Sn mineralization to the east of the Youjiang basin, probably in response to slab breakup of the Paleo-Pacific oceanic plate beneath the South China continental plate. Our case story suggests that hydrothermal apatite could be a robust chronometer for age dating of sedimentary rock-hosted gold mineralization worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magmatic sources of porphyry deposits in postcollisional settings remain controversial. We have used new and published petrological and geochemical data for the Eocene–Oligocene porphyry Cu ± Mo ± Au deposits in the Sanjiang region, SW China, to address this outstanding issue. New data for three deposits (Machangqing, Tongchang, and Beiya) in the Ailaoshan–Red River porphyry Au-Cu-Mo belt (southern part of the Sanjiang region) suggest that ore-forming porphyries were emplaced at ~ 35 Ma, have high (87Sr/86Sr)i (0.7068–0.7071) and negative εNd(t) (− 6.9 to − 5.0), low zircon εHf(t) (− 5.3 to 4.5), and relatively high δ18O (5.9–9.0‰). Magmatic amphibole phenocryst compositions indicate that the parental magmas are all relatively oxidized (ΔFMQ = 1.7 ± 0.6), and H2O-rich (3.8 ± 0.3 wt% H2O). These results are consistent with those estimated from zircon compositions (ΔFMQ = 1.8 ± 0.8) and high whole-rock Sr/Y ratios (75 ± 31), respectively. Based on the new and published data, we suggest that the parental magmas for the Ailaoshan–Red River porphyry Au-Cu-Mo belt were derived from a preserved juvenile arc lower-crust and the underlying metasomatized subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) attributed to a Neoproterozoic subduction event, whereas the parental magmas for the Yulong porphyry Cu-Mo belt (northern part of the Sanjiang region) originated from the Permian–Triassic juvenile arc lower-crust and metasomatized SCLM. Additionally, parental magmas for these porphyry deposits are all oxidized and H2O-rich, and we attribute such characteristics to inheritance from mixed mantle-crust sources that were modified by previous oceanic slab subduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porphyry Mo deposits have traditionally been classified into two major classes, arc-related and Climax-type, based on the tectonic setting and chemistry of associated intrusions. Although there is a consensus that porphyry Mo systems were formed by the optimal coincidence of geological processes operating at different scales, it is unclear what key parameter(s) render systems productive and whether the two classes of porphyry Mo deposits are unique in their mode of formation, or if they share fundamentally similar geological processes. These questions are important as a clearer understanding of the optimum conditions for the formation of porphyry Mo deposits is a prerequisite for more efficient exploration. This contribution presents a detailed assessment of the factors affecting the formation of porphyry Mo deposits through the investigation of barren and mineralized intrusions from the arc-related Songbei-Yangjiazhangzi-Lanjiagou (SYL) ore zone and the Climax-type Hashitu deposit of northeastern China. Our results show that the syn-mineralization intrusions from the SYL ore zone are quite evolved (SiO2 ~ 75 wt%; Na2O+K2O ~ 8.7 wt%) and are characterized by apparent light rare earth element (LREE) enrichments (LaN/YbN = 2.7–33.1) and moderate negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.4–0.7). They show enriched zircon Hf isotopic compositions [εHf(t) = –11.9 to –4.8], indicating their parental magmas were likely derived from an ancient crustal source. Melt inclusions from the SYL syn-mineralization intrusions contain negligible F and Cl. In contrast, Hashitu syn-mineralization intrusions are characterized by weak LREE enrichments (LaN/YbN = 2.2–6.9) and strong negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.02–0.10), with SiO2 and Na2O+K2O contents similar to the SYL syn-mineralization intrusions. They show depleted zircon Hf isotopic compositions [εHf(t) = 3.1–5.0], indicating their parental magmas were likely derived from a juvenile crustal source. Melt inclusions from the Hashitu syn-mineralization intrusions contain up to 0.4 wt% F and 0.03 to 0.09 wt% Cl. However, in both cases, the syn-mineralization intrusions are Mo-poor (1–7 ppm Mo), oxidized (above the quartz-fayalite-magnetite buffer), water-saturated (4.4–7.8 wt% H2O), and were emplaced at palaeodepths of 3.3 to 8.3 km. These data imply that magma source composition is not a key factor in the formation of porphyry Mo deposits. In contrast, magma oxygen fugacity, water content, and emplacement depth appear to play fundamental roles in the formation of porphyry Mo deposits of both arc-related and Climax-type. Within individual deposits, no systematic differences between pre- and syn-mineralization intrusions are observed in terms of magma source, fractionation degree, oxygen fugacity, emplacement depth, and volatile and Mo contents. Instead, a crucial apparent difference lies in the geometry of the intrusions, i.e., pre-mineralization intrusions generally occur as flat, ponded bodies, whereas syn-mineralization intrusions commonly develop as small stocks or dikes. Our results, in combination with an examination of other porphyry Mo systems, suggest that the sudden depressurization of magma chambers and subsequent venting of voluminous fluids along focusing structures (such as small stocks or dikes) most likely plays a critical role in the formation of porphyry Mo deposits of both arc-related and Climax-type. The findings of this study indicate that fluid processes in the shallow crust are pivotal for the formation of porphyry Mo deposits and that settings with ideal magmatic-hydrothermal architectures are most likely to develop into productive porphyry Mo systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genesis of the giant Ag-Cu-Pb-Zn polymetallic mineralization in the northern Lanping basin, Southwest China, remains controversial. To address the sources of metals, a systematic study on Hg isotope compositions was conducted for the Cu-dominated deposit at Baiyangping and the Pb-Zn-dominated deposits at Fulongchang and Liziping. The Cu deposit shows positive Δ199Hg signatures (0.14 ± 0.13‰), in contrast to the Δ199Hg of the Pb-Zn deposits (− 0.09 ± 0.06‰). As positive Δ199Hg values are commonly observed in marine sediments and the Lanping Triassic marine sedimentary rocks show exclusively positive Δ199Hg signals (0.03 ± 0.07‰), the Hg in Cu ores was mainly sourced from the Triassic strata. The negative Δ199Hg signals observed in the Pb-Zn deposits, typical of terrestrial Hg, agree roughly with those of the Jurassic to Paleocene terrestrial sedimentary rocks (− 0.05 ± 0.08 ‰), indicating that the terrestrial strata provided the Hg in Pb-Zn ores. Compared to the source rocks, the Cu deposit shows isotopically lighter Hg enrichments (δ202Hg = − 2.30 ± 0.35‰), possibly resulting from fractionations induced by Hg2+ sorption, organic complexation, and precipitation of Hg-bearing sulfides. The Pb-Zn deposits show comparable or slightly heavier δ202Hg (− 0.56 ± 0.48‰); moreover, δ202Hg values of late-stage sulfides are higher than early-stage δ202Hg values, suggesting that the δ202Hg variation was primarily caused by sulfide precipitation. Thus, Hg isotope data indicate that separate hydrothermal events resulted in Cu and Pb-Zn mineralization. More importantly, this study reveals the great potential of Hg isotopes to discriminate sedimentary sources of metals for low-temperature hydrothermal deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The late Mesozoic antimony (Sb) mineralization belt in South China hosts a large portion of the world's Sb reserves. However, the source and mineralization processes of these Sb deposits remain controversial. Here, we measured mercury (Hg) concentrations and isotopic compositions of stibnite in the Banpo Sb-only and Woxi Sb-polymetallic ore deposits, as well as associated rocks in the Yangtze Block in order to constrain the metal sources and ore formation processes in the South China Sb mineralization belt. Stibnite samples from both deposits exhibit significant enrichment in Hg (4.23–50.6 ppm) and have higher δ202Hg values (−0.47‰ to 2.03‰) than the studied Precambrian basement rocks (−1.42‰ to 0.59‰), Paleozoic sedimentary rocks (−2.40‰ to −0.32‰), and other natural Hg reserves (e.g., marine and continental systems). This indicates that significant mass-dependent fractionation of Hg isotopes occurred during hydrothermal processes. Negative to slightly positive Δ199Hg values of −0.17‰ to 0.02‰ were obtained for stibnite from the studied deposits, similar to values for the Precambrian basement rocks, but different from those of the Paleozoic sedimentary rocks and data previously reported for mantle materials. This suggests that Precambrian basement rocks were the source of Hg and associated metals. Our data and the tectonic evolution of South China indicate that late Mesozoic asthenospheric upwelling, in response to the Paleo-Pacific oceanic slab foundering, generated heat that drove the circulation of fluids in the basement and crustal basinal rocks. These fluids leached Sb, Hg, and other metals from the Precambrian basement rocks and formed the world-class Sb mineralization belt in South China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been well established that metal and sulfur sources in mineral deposits can be very difficult to identify, especially for ore deposits hosted in sedimentary rocks. Using the world's largest Sb deposit at Xikuangshan in southern China as a case study, this study combined Hg isotopes and in situ sulfur isotope measurements to constrain the sources of Sb and sulfur. A variation of 1.1‰ in δ202Hg (0.04 to 1.15‰) was observed in stibnite ore samples, suggesting that mass-dependent fractionation of Hg isotopes occurred during the formation of the deposit. Significant mass-independent fractionation of Hg isotopes, with △199Hg ranging from − 0.03 to − 0.17‰, was also observed in the ore samples, suggesting that Hg transported by the ore fluids was inherited from Proterozoic basement metamorphic rocks as these rocks show similar △199Hg signatures (− 0.03 to 0.07‰). In situ sulfur isotope measurements yielded δ34S values that cluster in the range of + 6.8 to + 10.2‰, providing evidence that sulfur contained in ore fluids may also have been dominantly derived from underlying Proterozoic basement metamorphic rocks (δ34S = +5.6 to + 11.5‰). Using the new results from Hg and S isotopes, we proposed that deep-circulated meteoric water mobilized Sb, Hg, and S from the Proterozoic metamorphic basement, ascended along deep faults, and subsequently deposited Sb at favorable structural zones as a result of boiling of the hydrothermal fluids, generating the world-class Xikuangshan Sb deposit. This study also highlights the combined use of Hg-S isotopes as a novel method to provide new and additional insights into the source regions of ore materials for sedimentary-hosted Sb deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Xikuangshan Sb deposit in central Hunan, South China is the largest Sb deposit in the world, which has supplied more than 50% of the world's Sb and with total Sb metal reserves of about 2.5 Mt. However, the age of this deposit is still not well constrained due to a lack of suitable minerals for reliable radiometric dating, which hampered the generation of a generally accepted genetic model of mineralization. Since the fluid-inclusion data suggest that the temperature of ore-forming fluids in the Xikuangshan deposit is up to 360 °C, zircon (U-Th)/He thermochronometry with the closure temperature of 160–200 °C was chosen here to elucidate the age of Sb mineralization. Detrital zircons in the altered host rocks from the Xikuangshan deposit yielded two (U-Th)/He age populations of 156–117 and 97–86 Ma. The older age population (156–117 Ma), which is well in accordance with previous Sm-Nd dating on hydrothermal calcite (156–124 Ma), probably represents the timing of main-stage Sb mineralization in the Xikuangshan Sb deposit, while the younger zircon (U-Th)/He ages may result from partial loss of He in zircon caused by the distal effect of deep-seated intrusions beneath the deposit. This study demonstrates that the (U-Th)/He dating of zircon in altered host rocks can be viable for constraining the timing of low-temperature mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The Jinding deposit contains high content of associated critical metal Cd, Tl, Ag. • The enrichment of Fe assists incorporation of components Ge + Mn + Pb + As + Tl. • The enrichment of Cd assists incorporation of components Cu + Ag + Sb. • Cd and Fe zonation at sphalerite indicate a potential exploration deposit. The Jinding deposit is well-known to contain high concentrations of metals Zn, Pb, Cd, Tl, Ag, etc. in the world. The associated critical metals and their substitution mechanisms were wildly concerned. This study investigated and compared sphalerites using a combination of textural, trace element, and sulfur isotopic analyses to give insights into element substitution mechanisms and possible sources of ore-forming fluids and to constrain processes involved in ore genesis of the world-class Jinding sediment-hosted Zn-Pb deposit. LA-ICP-MS analyses reveal chemical zoning in the sphalerites together with the coupling of two main groups of trace elements substitution mechanisms: one is Fe + Ge + Mn + Pb + As + Tl and vacancies to substitute Zn, and the other is Cd + Cu + Ag + Sb to substitute Zn. The incorporation of trace elements is facilitated by the replacement of Zn by Cd and Fe. These two group elements have distinct color oscillatory zonation and are intertwined in the trace element LA-ICP-MS element maps. The sulfur isotopic values show high isotope fractionation in the sphalerite from −28.4 to −0.5 ‰, suggesting a bacteriogenic sulfur origin at Jinding. Sphalerite sample has observed that sulfur isotope is correlated with Fe concentration and anti-correlated with Cd concentration. These variations in isotope fractionation and trace element disequilibrium partitioning were interpreted as the effects of temperature and pH with less influence from sulfur activity. These variability zones of sphalerite alternately enriched in Cd- and Fe-related elements suggested that ore fluids may flow from metal-fertile sedimentary/basement sequences during their ascent, and colloform sphalerite was likely formed by a high degree of supercooling, over-saturation, and rapid mixing between bacteriogenic sulfur and metal-rich in spaces of collapse dome. Based on our observations, we suggested that these variability zones of layered sphalerite alternately enriched in Cd and Fe would likely provide useful insight for a potential economic Zn-Pb and associated critical metals mineral exploration deposit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Huichizi granite complex is the largest Paleozoic I-type intrusion located in the North Qinling orogenic belt (NQB). In this study, we present systematic geochemical element data, zircon U-Pb ages, Lu-Hf isotopic data, and Sr-Nd isotopic data for the Huichizi granites. In terms of mineral and chemical compositions, these granites are biotite monzonitic and alkali-feldspar granites, both of which are characterized by high TiO2 and total alkali contents and low MgO, TiO2, and TFeO contents. These granites are weakly peraluminous (A/CNK values are 1-1.06 for biotite monzonitic granites and 1.04-1.09 for alkali-feldspar granites) and possess the geochemical characteristics of adakitic rocks, e.g., high Sr contents (319 ppm-633 ppm), Sr/Y ratios (18.5-174), and (La/Yb)N ratios (17.6-57) and low MgO (0.04 wt.%-0.83 wt.%), Y (3.0 ppm-17.2 ppm), and heavy rare-earth element (HREE) contents. This indicates that these rocks were most likely derived from the partial melting of a thickened lower crust. In situ zircon U-Pb dating of these granites yields Early Caledonian ages (437 Ma for biotite monzonitic granites and 424 Ma for alkali-feldspar granites), indicating that the Huichizi granitic complex is the product of multi-periodic magmatism. The positive but varying zircon εHf(t) values (+0.6 to +8.5) suggest that this thickened lower crust was mainly juvenile, i.e., accreted from depleted mantle during the Neo-Mesoproterozoic Period, but involved the ancient recycled crust. Biotite monzonitic granites formed during crust thickening at the extrusion stage, whereas the alkali granites formed during crust thickening at the extension stage (post extrusion). The Huichizi granite complex witnessed the process of extrusion to extension because of the collision between the NCB and the Qinling microcontinent in the Caledonian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lanuoma and Cuona sediment-hosted Pb-Zn deposits hosted by Upper Triassic limestone and sandstone, respectively, are located in the Changdu area, SW China. Mercury concentrations and Hg isotopic compositions from sulfide minerals and potential source rocks (e.g., the host sedimentary rocks and the metamorphic basement) were investigated to constrain metal sources and mineralization processes. In both deposits, sulfide minerals have higher mercury (Hg) concentrations (0.35 to 1185 ppm) than the metamorphic basement rocks (0.05 to 0.15 ppm) and sedimentary rocks (0.02 to 0.08 ppm). Large variations of mass-dependent fractionation (3.3‰ in δ202Hg) and mass-independent fractionation (0.3‰ in Δ199Hg) of Hg isotopes were observed. Sulfide minerals have Hg isotope signatures that are similar to the hydrothermal altered rocks around the deposit, and similar to the metamorphic basement, but different from barren sedimentary rocks. The variation of ∆199Hg suggests that Hg in sulfides was mainly derived from the underlying metamorphic basement. Mercury isotopes could be a geochemical tracer in understanding metal sources in hydrothermal ore deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur isotope signatures of Au-bearing pyrite from Lannigou Au deposit, a typical Carlin-type Au deposit in SW China, provide valuable information about the origin of the ore-forming minerals. Analysis by NanoSIMS was used to determine S isotope compositions of Au-bearing pyrite and to map the grain-scale distributions of Au, Cu, As and S in pyrite from the deposit. Based on different textural pattern of pyrites revealed by back-scattered electron (BSE) images, they are divided into three types: Py-1 diagenetic pyrite without core-rim structure, Py-2 pyrite with an Au-free core and a rhythmically-zoned Au-bearing rim, Py-3 Au-bearing pyrite with rhythmic zoning across the entire grain. The element distributions and S isotope compositions of four paragenetic stages are recognized on the basis of textural observation. Py-1 grains and the Au-free homogeneous cores of zoned crystals were formed in Stage 1 while the Au-bearing rims of the zoned crystals with rhythmic zonation of As and Cu, and to a lesser degree Au, were formed in two superimposed stages: stage 2 formed the inner zone that is enriched in As alone; and stage 3 formed the outer zone that is enriched in both Au and As. Other sulfides such as realgar, cinnabar and stibnite are formed in the last stage. The relationship between Au and As distributions in pyrite rim is complicated, changing from coupled to decoupled at the nanoscale. Such complexity is interpreted to reflect fluctuation of fluid composition and temperature with time, which in turn affect the modes of occurrence of As and Au. It is inferred that As mainly occurs in the crystal lattice replacing S whereas Au is mainly present as nanoparticles that were trapped in pyrite during crystal growth. The Au-bearing rims of the zoned pyrite crystals are characterized by highly variable δ 34 S values from 1.1 to 18.1‰, which exceed the values of the Triassic calcareous host rocks (10–14‰). In contrast, the δ 34 S values of the Au-free cores of zoned pyrite crystals vary over a narrower interval and are mainly between 6 and 12‰, close to the values of pyrite crystals in the sedimentary country rocks. Our new analyses also reveals that the δ 34 S values of the Au-bearing fluids generally increase during the formation of the deposit. The observed S isotope variations are consistent with mixing between a magmatic-related fluid with mantle-like δ 34 S value (∼0‰) and a sedimentary or deep basin brine fluid with elevated δ 34 S value (>18‰), with an increasing contribution from the latter with time. The notably varied values of δ 34 S and the disseminations of Au and other trace elements such as As and Cu in pyrite crystals indicate that the process responsible for Au precipitation in this deposit occurred in an open hydrothermal system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

B Retraction Note to b : B Mineralium Deposita (2022) 57:399-415 b https://doi.org/10.1007/s00126-021-01070-3 The Editors-in-Chief have retracted this article because Table 2 contains data used in a previously published article (Liu et al. [1]). All authors agree to this retraction and to the wording of this retraction notice. [Extracted from the article]

The Paleo-Tethyan arc belt is host to a small number of porphyry Cu deposits the key controls on which remains poorly understood. It has been hypothesized that the Paleo-Tethyan arc magmas were reduced and therefore less fertile for porphyry Cu formation but few studies have been conducted to directly assess the magmatic oxygen fugacity. We investigate the magma fertility of eastern Paleo-Tethyan arc igneous rocks in the Sanjiang region, SW China, represented by the Maoding (268.3 ± 2.3 Ma), Suwalong (275.6 ± 1.4 Ma to 264.7 ± 1.4 Ma) and Baimaxueshan (255.7 ± 1.5 Ma to 249.3 ± 1.1 Ma) granitoids. They have geochemical features consistent with typical continental arc rocks, formed from partial melting of the mantle wedge, with increasing contamination of crust-derived melts over time. The presence of amphibole, high Sr/Y ratios (35 ± 20, n = 17), and lack of negative Eu anomalies (Eu N /Eu N ⁎ = 1.04 ± 0.3, n = 17) are consistent with derivation from hydrous magmas. Zircons from the intrusive rocks have relatively low Eu N /Eu N ⁎ (mostly <0.4) ratios and calculated ΔFMQ values (−2.1 ± 1.2, n = 86). Combined with apatite microphenocrysts with extremely low sulfur contents (< 0.12 wt% SO 3), it suggests that the intrusions originated from water-rich but reduced arc magmas, that were less fertile for porphyry Cu formation. Our study highlights that magmatic f O 2 is probably a critical control on the prospectivity of arc systems and confirms that zircon and apatite compositions can be used to evaluate porphyry Cu fertility. • The Paleo-Tethyan arc igneous rocks were dated from ~275 to 249 Ma. • They were derived from partial melting of mantle wedge during MASH processes. • These arc magmas were reduced and less fertile for porphyry Cu formation. • Zircon and apatite compositions can be used to evaluate porphyry Cu fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Pyrite of Carlin-type Au deposits in the Youjiang Basin were analyzed by Nano-SIMS. • The δ34S values Au-bearing pyrite of Linwang vary inversely with Au concentrations. • Initial auriferous fluids of Linwang were sourced from magmatic-hydrothermal systems. • Reduced sulfur in ore-forming fluids of Badu was dominated by sedimentary sulfur. • Sedimentary sulfur contamination result in variable δ34S values of Au-bearing pyrite. The Youjiang Basin in Southwest China is the world's second largest Carlin-type gold (Au)-producing region. However, the source of reduced sulfur that accounts for Au transport in ore-forming fluids remains controversial. Finely characterizing the sulfur isotopic compositions (δ34S values) in micron-scale zonation of Au-bearing pyrite is the key to clearly identify sulfur source. Here, we used high-resolution nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry (Nano-SIMS) to characterize the temporal variation in δ34S values and its relationship with metal contents across Au-bearing pyrite from the Linwang and Badu deposits in the Youjiang Basin, with the aim of monitoring the source and evolution of reduced sulfur in auriferous fluids. The Au-bearing pyrite rims in the Linwang deposit contain three growth stages that record episodic injections of Au- and As-rich fluids. Within these rims, the δ34S values vary inversely with Au concentrations. The inner rims with the high Au contents have δ34S values of −1.7‰ to +3.3‰ that are comparable to those of magmatic sulfur. The outer rims with decreasing Au contents have δ34S values of +1.3‰ to +15.7‰ that gradually approach those of pre-ore pyrite in the host rock. Such a variation indicates that the reduced sulfur in the initial Au-bearing ore-forming fluids was primarily originated from deep magmatic-hydrothermal systems while the host rock-derived 34S-enriched sulfur increasingly dominated through fluid-rock interactions during mineralization. In contrast, Au-bearing pyrite from the Badu deposit has positive δ34S values ranging from +9.0‰ to +25.8‰, which overlap those of diagenetic pyrite in the Devonian sedimentary rocks. Combining the intimate spatial association between Au mineralization and the Devonian strata, we propose that the initial ore-forming fluids have leached substantial sulfur from the Devonian strata. Significant contaminations of sedimentary sulfur erased the primary sulfur isotopic signals of the initial auriferous fluids. Our interpretations of these two deposits may also apply to other Carlin-type Au deposits in the Youjiang Basin, where δ34S values of Au-bearing pyrite show host rock-dependent variations. This study demonstrates that high-resolution Nano-SIMS sulfur isotope and elemental analysis of Au-bearing pyrite is a potent tool for tracing the source and evolution of reduced sulfur in ore-forming fluids for sedimentary-host Au deposits worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fe-Cu deposits in the Kangdian Fe-Cu metallogenic province, SW China, are hosted in Paleoproterozoic meta-volcanic-sedimentary sequences and are spatially associated with coeval mafic intrusions. Several well-known examples are the giant Lala, Dahongshan, and Yinachang deposits. They have a common paragenetic sequence of an early Fe-oxide stage associated with sodic alteration and a late Cu-sulfide stage associated with potassic-carbonate alteration. Magnetite dominates the Fe-oxide stage of these deposits but is also present in the Cu-sulfide stage of the Lala deposit. This study uses trace element compositions of magnetite to examine the nature and origin of the ore-forming fluids. The magnetite has variable concentrations of Ti, Al, Mg, Mn, Si, V, Cr, Ca, Co, Ni, Sc, Zn, Cu, Mo, Sn, and Ga, which are thought to have been controlled mainly by fluid compositions and/or intensive parameters (e.g., temperature and oxygen fugacity ( fO)). Fluid-rock interaction and coprecipitating mineral phases appear to be less important in controlling the magnetite compositions. Magnetite grains in the Fe-oxide stage of the Lala and Dahongshan deposits have comparable trace element compositions and were likely precipitated from chemically similar fluids. High Ni contents of magnetite in both deposits, coupled with previous isotopic data and the fact that the two deposits are spatially associated with coeval mafic intrusions, strongly suggest that the ore-forming fluids were genetically related to the mafic magmas that formed the intrusions. Magnetite grains in the Fe-oxide stage of the Yinachang deposit have much lower V and Ni but higher Sn and Mo contents than those of the Lala and Dahongshan deposits and are thus thought to have precipitated from more oxidized and Mo-Sn-rich fluids that may have evolved from relatively felsic magmas. Magnetite grains from the Cu-sulfide and Fe-oxide stages of the Lala deposit are broadly similar in composition, but those in the Cu-sulfide stage have slightly higher Cu, Zn, and Mn and are thought to have crystallized from relatively low-temperature and Cu-Zn-Mn-rich fluids evolved from the fluids of the early Fe-oxide stage. Our results show that magnetite from the Fe-Cu deposits in the Kangdian Province, banded iron formation, Fe skarn deposits, diabase-hosted hydrothermal Fe deposits, and magmatic deposits has significantly different compositions. We propose that covariations of Co-Ni, Zn-Sn, and Co/Ni-Mn can be used to effectively discriminate different deposit types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The differences in mineral composition were related to temperature, alteration and hydrothermal fluid. • Ag ranges n*103 ∼ n*104 ppm in galena, n*10 ~ n*103 ppm in sphalerite and pyrite. Sphalerite has higher Au and Ag. • Silver occurs as a solid solution in samples with massive textures and as micro-inclusions in alteration samples. • The minor and trace elements are typical characteristics of massive sulfide deposits in the LSKD. Sphalerite, pyrite and galena are common sulfide minerals in Zn–Pb–(Ag) deposits, containing minor and trace elements that can be used to constrain the ore-forming processes. The Lengshuikeng Ag–Pb–Zn deposit (LSKD) is one of the largest silver deposits in China. The mode of silver occurrence in sulfides remains unclear except for individual silver minerals. In this study, we analyzed the minor and trace element contents of sulfide minerals from massive, vein, and veinlet-disseminated ores by in-situ laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA–ICP–MS). The elemental compositions of sulfide minerals are variable. Combining petrographic observations and previous studies, we suggest that the sulfide minerals from two types of mineralization (porphyry and strata-bound types) were formed in a same hydrothermal system, and their content of minor and trace elements mainly is influenced by temperature, alteration of wall rocks and composition change of hydrothermal fluid. The Ag content in galena ranges n*103 ∼ n*104 ppm, whereas that in both sphalerite and pyrite ranges from n*10 ∼ n*103 ppm. Except for galena, a higher content of gold (mean = 0.76 ppm) and silver (mean = 151 ppm) occurs in sphalerite compared with the content of gold (mean = 0.26 ppm) and silver (mean = 69.9 ppm) in pyrite. Generally, altered samples display higher Ag and Au contents in pyrite and sphalerite. Silver occurs in the form of a solid solution in sulfides from samples with massive textures, and as micro-inclusions in sulfides from altered samples. The contents of minor and trace elements (e.g. Cd and In) and their ratios (Ga/In, Zn/Cd and Cd/Fe) are not always sensitive to the temperature and processes of deposit formation. We suggest that sulfides from samples with massive texture and limited alteration are suitable for determining the genetic type of the deposit. Our results show that the hydrothermal fluid is a magmatic fluid related to porphyry granite in the LSKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dolerite dike swarms are widespread across the North China Craton (NCC) of Hebei Province (China) and Inner Mongolia. Here, we report new geochemical, Sr–Nd–Pb isotope, and U–Pb zircon ages for representative samples of these dikes. Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) U–Pb analysis yielded consistent Permian ages of 274.8 ± 2.9 and 275.0 ± 4.5 Ma for zircons extracted from two dikes. The dolerites have highly variable compositions (SiO2 = 46.99–56.18 wt.%, TiO2 = 1.27–2.39 wt.%, Al2O3 = 14.42–16.20 wt.%, MgO = 5.18–7.75 wt.%, Fe2O3 = 8.03–13.52 wt.%, CaO = 5.18–9.75 wt.%, Na2O = 2.46–3.79 wt.%, K2O = 0.26–2.35 wt.%, and P2O5 = 0.18–0.37 wt.%) and are light rare earth element (LREE) and large ion lithophile element (LILE, e.g. Rb, Ba, and K, and Pb in sample SXG1-9) enriched, and Th and high field strength element (HFSE, e.g. Nb and Ta in sample SXG1-9, and Ti) depleted. The mafic dikes have relatively uniform (87Sr/86Sr)ivalues from 0.7031 to 0.7048, (206Pb/204Pb)ifrom 17.77 to 17.976, (207Pb/204Pb)ifrom 15.50 to 15.52, (208Pb/204Pb)ifrom 37.95 to 38.03, and positive ϵNd(t) (3.6–7.3), and variable neodymium model ages (TDM1 = 0.75–0.99 Ga, TDM2 = 0.34–0.74 Ga). These data suggest that the dike magmas were derived from partial melting of a depleted region of the asthenospheric mantle, and that they fractionated olivine, pyroxene, plagioclase, K-feldspar, and Ti-bearing phases without undergoing significant crustal contamination. These mafic dikes within the NCC formed during a period of crustal thinning in response to extension after Permian collision between the NCC and the Siberian Block. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkaline intrusions in the eastern Shandong Province consist of quartz monzonite and granite. U-Pb zircon ages, geochemical data, and Sr-Nd-Pb isotopic data for these rocks are reported in the present paper. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) U-Pb zircon analyses yielded consistent ages ranging from 114.3 ± 0.3 to 122.3 ± 0.4 Ma for six samples of the felsic rocks. The felsic rocks are characterised by a wide range of chemical compositions (SiO = 55.14-77.63 wt. %, MgO = 0.09-4.64 wt. %, FeO = 0.56-7.6 wt. %, CaO = 0.40-5.2 wt. %), light rare earth elements (LREEs) and large ion lithophile elements (LILEs) (i.e., Rb, Pb, U) enrichment, as well as significant rare earth elements (HREEs) and heavy field strength (HFSEs) (Nb, Ta, P and Ti) depletion, various and high (Sr/Sr) ranging from 0.7066 to 0.7087, low ε (t) values from −14.1 to −17.1, high neodymium model ages (T = 1.56-2.38Ga, T = 2.02-2.25Ga), Pb/Pb = 17.12-17.16, Pb/Pb = 15.44-15.51, and Pb/Pb = 37.55-37.72. The results suggested that these rocks were derived from an enriched crustal source. In addition, the alkaline rocks also evolved as the result of the fractionation of potassium feldspar, plagioclase, +/− ilmenite or rutile and apatite. However, the alkaline rocks were not affected by crustal contamination. Moreover, the generation of the alkaline rocks can be attributed to the structural collapse of the Sulu organic belt due to various processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-orogenic mafic rocks from Northeast China consist of swarms of dolerite dikes. We report a new U–Pb zircon age, as well as whole-rock geochemical and Sr–Nd–Hf isotopic data. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA–ICP–MS) U–Pb zircon analysis yielded an age of 210.3 ± 1.5 million years (i.e. Triassic) for these mafic dikes. Most Dalian mafic rocks exhibit low K2O + Na2O contents, and span the border between alkaline and calc-alkaline rock associations in the total alkali–silica diagram. The investigated dikes are also characterized by relatively high (87Sr/86Sr)i ratios (0.7061–0.7067) and negative ϵNd (t) (−4.7 to −4.3) and ϵHf (t) values (−4.1 to −1.1), implying that they were derived from an enriched lithospheric mantle source. The mafic dikes are characterized by relatively low MgO (4.65–5.44 wt.%), Mg# (41–44), and compatible element content [such as Cr (89.9–125 ppm) and Ni (56.7–72.2 ppm)], which are the features of an evolved mafic magma. No evidence supports the idea that the mafic rocks were affected by significant assimilation or crustal contamination during emplacement. We conclude that the dolerites formed in a post-orogenic extensional setting, related to lithospheric delamination or ‘collapse’ of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB), also termed the Xingmeng Orogenic Belt in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-orogenic mafic dikes are widespread across eastern Shandong Province, North China Craton, eastern China. We here report new U–Pb zircon ages and bulk-rock geochemical and Sr–Nd–Pb isotopic data for representative samples of these rocks. LA-ICP-MS U–Pb zircon analysis of two mafic dike samples yields consistent ages of 118.7 ± 0.25 million years and 122.4 ± 0.21 million years. These Mesozoic mafic dikes are characterized by high (87Sr/86Sr) i ranging from 0.7082 to 0.7087, low ϵNd(t) values from −17.0 to −17.5, 206Pb/204Pb from 17.14 to 17.18, 207Pb/204Pb from 15.44 to 15.55, and 208Pb/204Pb from 37.47 to 38.20. Our results suggest that the parental magmas of these dikes were derived from an ancient, enriched lithospheric mantle source that was metasomatized by foundered lower crustal eclogitic materials prior to magma generation. The mafic dikes underwent minor fractionation during ascent and negligible crustal contamination. Combined with previous studies, these findings provide additional evidence that intense lithospheric thinning beneath eastern Shandong occurred at ∼120 Ma, and that this condition was caused by the removal/foundering of the lithospheric mantle and lower crust. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Geochronological, geochemical, and whole-rock Sr–Nd isotopic analyses were performed on a suite of Palaeozoic nepheline syenites from Zijinshan to characterize their ages and petrogenesis. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry U–Pb zircon analyses yield consistent ages of 525.7 ± 2.8 million years for a sample (HYK01). These intrusive rocks belong to the foid syenite magma series in terms of K2O + Na2O contents (14.3–15.2 wt.%) and to the shoshonitic series based on their high K2O contents (5.42–5.61 wt.%). The nepheline syenites are further characterized by high light rare earth element contents [(La/Yb) N  = 29.1–36.1]; show modest negative Eu anomalies (δEu = 0.5–0.6) and positive anomalies in Rb, Th, U, Pb, Zr, and Hf; are depleted in Ba and high field strength elements (P and Ti). In addition, all the nepheline syenites in this study display relatively low radiogenic Sr (87Sr/86Sr) i (0.7042–0.7043) and positive ϵNd (t) (0.7–0.8). These results suggest that the nepheline syenites were derived from depleted continental crust. The parent magmas likely experienced fractional crystallization of plagioclase, Ti-bearing oxides (e.g. rutile, ilmenite, and titanite), apatite, and zircon during ascent, with negligible crustal contamination before final emplacement at a high crustal level. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The Xihuashan tungsten deposit, Jiangxi province, China, is a world-class vein-type ore deposit hosted in Cambrian strata and Mesozoic granitic intrusions. There are two major sets of subparallel ore-bearing quartz veins. The ore mineral assemblage includes wolframite and molybdenite, with minor amounts of arsenopyrite, chalcopyrite, and pyrite. There are only two-phase aqueous-rich inclusions in wolframite but at least three major types of inclusions in quartz: two- or three-phase CO-rich inclusions, two-phase pure CO inclusions and two-phase aqueous inclusions, indicating boiling. Fluid inclusions in wolframite have relatively higher homogenization temperatures and salinities (239-380°C, 3.8-13.7 wt.% NaCl equiv) compared with those in quartz (177-329°C, 0.9-8.1 wt.% NaCl equiv). These distinct differences suggest that those conventional microthermometric data from quartz are not adequate to explain the ore formation process. Enthalpy-salinity plot shows a linear relationship, implying mixing of different sources of fluids. Although boiling occurred during vein-type mineralization, it seems negligible for wolframite deposition. Mixing is the dominant mechanism of wolframite precipitation in Xihuashan. δS values of the sulfides range from −1.6 to +0.1‰, indicative of a magmatic source of sulfur. δO values of wolframite are relatively homogeneous, ranging from +4.8‰ to +6.3‰. Oxygen isotope modeling of boiling and mixing processes also indicates that mixing of two different fluids was an important mechanism in the precipitation of wolframite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenian pyrite in the Shuiyindong Carlin-type gold deposit in Guizhou, China, is the major host for gold with 300 to 4,000 ppm Au and 0.65 to 14.1 wt.% As. Electron miroprobe data show a negative correlation of As and S in arsenian pyrite, which is consistent with the substitution of As for S in the pyrite structure. The relatively homogeneous distribution of gold in arsenian pyrite and a positive correlation of As and Au, with Au/As ratios below the solubility limit of gold in arsenian pyrite, suggest that invisible gold is likely present as Au in a structurally bound Au complex in arsenian pyrite. Geochemical modeling using the laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) analysis of fluid inclusions for the major ore forming stage shows that the dominant Au species were Au(HS) (77%) and AuHS (23%). Gold-hydroxyl and Gold-chloride complexes were negligible. The ore fluid was undersaturated with respect to native Au, with a saturation index of −3.8. The predominant As species was HAsO. Pyrite in the Shuiyindong deposit shows chemical zonation with rims richer in As and Au than cores, reflecting the chemical evolution of the ore-bearing fluids. The early ore fluids had relatively high activities of As and Au, to deposit unzoned and zoned arsenian pyrite that host most gold in the deposit. The ore fluids then became depleted in Au and As and formed As-poor pyrite overgrowth rims on gold-bearing arsenian pyrite. Arsenopyrite overgrowth aggregates on arsenian pyrite indicate a late fluid with relatively high activity of As. The lack of evidence of boiling and the low iron content of fluid inclusions in quartz, suggest that iron in arsenian pyrite was most likely derived from dissolution of ferroan minerals in the host rocks, with sulfidation of the dissolved iron by HS-rich ore fluids being the most important mechanism of gold deposition in the Shuiyindong Carlin-type deposit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesozoic mafic dikes in the Gan-Hang tectonic belt (GHTB) provide an opportunity to explore both the nature of their mantle source(s) and the secular evolution of the underlying Mesozoic lithospheric mantle in the region. The geochronology and primary geochemical and Sr–Nd–Pb isotopic compositions of Group 1 (middle section of GHTB) and Group 2 (the rest of the section) dolerite dikes spanning the GHTB were investigated. K–Ar ages indicate that dikes of both groups were emplaced during the Cretaceous (131–69 Ma). The dikes are doleritic in composition and are enriched in both large ion lithophile elements (LILEs; e.g. Rb, Ba, and Pb) and light rare earth elements (LREEs), with a wide range of Eu anomalies, but are depleted in high field strength elements (HFSEs; e.g. Nb, Ta, and Ti) and heavy rare earth elements (HREEs). Dikes sampled in the middle section of the GHTB (Group 1) show more pronounced REE differentiation and a greater contribution from crustal material than those from the east and west sections (Group 2) and are similar to GHTB volcanic rocks in exhibiting a slight enrichment in LREEs. The dolerites are further characterized by a wide range in 87Sr/86Sr i  = 0.7041–0.7110, 143Nd/144Nd i  = 0.511951–0.512758, ϵNd t  = –10.4 to +5.6, and Pb isotopic ratios (206Pb/204Pb i  = 18.1–18.3, 207Pb/204Pb i ≈ 15.6, and 208Pb/204Pb i  = 38.2–38.7). The dikes have undergone fractional crystallization of olivine, clinopyroxene, plagioclase, and Ti-bearing phases, except for dikes from the Anding area, which possibly experienced fractionation of plagioclase. Geochemically, all the dike samples originated from mantle sources ranging in composition from depleted to enriched that contained a component of foundered lower crust; crustal contamination during the ascent of these magmas was negligible. In the context of the late Mesozoic lithospheric extension across South China, mafic dike magmatism was likely triggered by the reactivation of deep faults, which promoted foundering of the lower crust and subsequent mantle upwelling in the GHTB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ziyang area is one of the two major regions of central China subjected to selenium (Se) poisoning. Systematic studies of Se contents of different lithologies from this area indicate that Lower Cambrian, carbonaceous, and siliceous strata host the highest Se contents (with Se contents of up to 278 ppm). We have investigated their geochemical characteristics (major and trace elements, and Si and O isotopes), origin, and sedimentary environment of formation. The siliceous rocks are characterized by a wide range in major elements, and are enriched in Se, Ba, Cu, Ni, V, As, Sb, and U relative to average continental crust. They are also enriched in light rare earth elements relative to heavy rare earth elements (LaN/YbN = 1.64–35.7) and show weak or moderate negative Ce anomalies and strong positive Eu anomalies. δ30SiNBS-28 and δ18OV-SMOW values range from –0.3‰ to 0.6‰ and 16.1‰ to 21.7‰, respectively. The homogenization temperatures of inclusions within the studied samples range from 113°C to 319°C, and their salinities from 1.2 to 13.7 wt.% NaCl equivalent. Our results suggest that the studied siliceous rocks resulted from hydrothermal sedimentation in a relatively anoxic semi-deep sea sedimentary environment. The hydrothermal fluid responsible for Se-mineralization involved the mixing of low-temperature high-salinity fluid, low-temperature low-salinity fluid, and a high-temperature low-salinity basinal fluid in the NaCl–(KCl)–H2O system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Precambrian mafic dykes in the North China Craton (NCC) consist of dolerite. Geochronological, geochemical, and whole-rock Sr–Nd isotopic analyses were performed on this suite of mafic dykes to characterise their ages and petrogenesis. Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) U–Pb zircon analyses yield consistent ages ranging from 837.9±4.8Ma to 2510±18Ma for seven of the mafic dykes (SHS01, TDG01, LJZ01, LQS02, HB02, WJ01, and DST01) from NCC. Based on these, the mafic dykes can be divided into three groupings: ~2.4–2.5Ga, ~1.8–1.9Ga and 0.8–1.0Ga. The studied dykes belong to the alkaline and sub-alkaline magma series in terms of K2O+Na2O contents (2.6–6.2wt.%), and to the Tholeiitic, calc-alkaline and high-K calc-alkaline series based on their K2O contents (0.1–2.1wt.%). The mafic dykes are further characterised by low and variable light rare earth elements (~2.4–2.5Ga mafic dykes, (La/Yb)N =3.83–10.4; ~1.8–1.9Ga mafic dykes, (La/Yb)N =1.45–2.35); 0.8–1.0Ga mafic dykes, (La/Yb) N =0.66–4.27, show variable Eu anomalies (δEu=0.94–1.35, 0.77–1.21; 0.92–1.28, respectively), positive anomalies in Ba, U, La and Pb, and are depleted in Rb and high field strength elements (Nb, Ta, Ti, and minor Zr and Hf). In addition, the studied mafic dykes all display relatively low radiogenic Sr [(87Sr/86Sr)i =0.6747–0.6921; 0.7017–0.7025; 0.7005–0.7049, respectively for the ~2.4–2.5Ga, ~1.8–1.9Ga and 0.8–1.0Ga mafic dyke groups] and large εNd (t) (13.2–13.5; 10.4–11.8; 6.5–8.5, respectively). These results suggest that all the mafic rocks were derived from a depleted mantle source hybridised by foundered lower crust. The parent mafic magmas likely experienced fractional crystallisation of olivine, pyroxene, hornblende, plagioclase and Fe–Ti oxides (e.g., rutile, ilmenite, titanite, etc.) during dyke ascent, with negligible evidence for crustal contamination prior to emplacement at a high crustal level. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Mesozoic post-collisional andesites occur in the Gerze area within the Qiangtang Terrane of northern Tibet, China. Geochronological, geochemical, and whole-rock Sr–Nd isotopic analyses were performed on this suite of volcanic rocks to characterize their petrogenesis. Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry U–Pb zircon analyses yielded consistent ages ranging from 122.4±0.4Ma to 124.4±0.4Ma for two andesite samples (JC01 and GZ01). The andesites belong to the alkaline and sub-alkaline magma series in terms of K2O+Na2O contents (4.7–10wt.%), and belong to the high-K calc-alkaline and calc-alkaline series on the basis of their high K2O contents (1.0–3.3 wt.%). The volcanic rocks are further characterized by the enrichment of light rare earth elements [(La/Yb)N =7.4–11.5] and large-ion lithophile elements (e.g., Rb), slightly negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* =0.79–0.94), and negative anomalies in high field strength elements (e.g., Nb, Ta, and Ti) relative to primitive mantle. The samples show slightly elevated (87Sr/86Sr)i values that range from 0.7049 to 0.7057, and low ε Nd(t) values of −3.4 to 0.7. These results suggest that the rocks were derived from a compositionally heterogeneous mantle source and that their parent magmas are basalt magma. The parent mafic magmas may have undergone fractional crystallization of olivine, pyroxene, hornblende, and to a lesser extent, plagioclase during ascent through the thickened crustal pile, with minor or no crustal contamination, before the finally erupting as andesites. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

TPost-orogenic intrusive complexes from the Sulu belt of eastern China consist of pyroxene monzonites and dioritic porphyrites. We report new U-Pb zircon ages, geochemical data, and Sr-Nd-Pb isotopic data for these rocks. Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry U-Pb zircon analyses yielded a weighted mean 206Pb/238U age of 127.4 ± 1.2 Ma for dioritic porphyrites, consistent with crystallization ages (126 Ma) of the associated pyroxene monzonites. The intrusive complexes are characterized by enrichment in light rare earth elements and large ion lithophile elements (i.e. Rb, Ba, Pb, and Th) and depletion in heavy rare earth elements and high field strength elements (i.e. Nb, Ta, P, and Ti), high (87Sr/86Sr)i ranging from 0.7083 to 0.7093, low εNd(t) values from ε14.6 to - 19.2, 206Pb/204Pb = 16.65-17.18, 207Pb/204Pb = 15.33-15.54, and 208Pb/204Pb = 36.83-38.29. Results suggest that these intermediate plutons were derived from different sources. The primary magma-derived pyroxene monzonites resulted from partial melting of enriched mantle hybridized by melts of foundered lower crustal eclogitic materials before magma generation. In contrast, the parental magma of the dioritic porphyrites was derived from partial melting of mafic lower crust beneath the Wulian region induced by the underplating of basaltic magmas. The intrusive complexes may have been generated by subsequent fractionation of clinopyroxene, potassium feldspar, plagioclase, biotite, hornblende, ilmenite, and rutile. Neither was affected by crustal contamination. Combined with previous studies, these findings provide evidence that a Neoproterozoic batholith lies beneath the Wulian region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Post-orogenic granitic and associated mafic rocks from northeastern (NE) China consist of granodiorite and gabbro intrusions. We report here upon new U–Pb zircon ages, geochemical data and Sr–Nd–Hf isotopic data for these rocks. LA-ICP-MS U–Pb zircon analysis yields an age of 262.8±1.0Ma for the granitic rocks, and a uniform age of 262.1±0.7Ma for the gabbro. Most of the granitic and mafic rocks are characterised by low K2O+Na2O, and pertain to the subalkaline series in the total alkali–silica diagram. The granodiorite samples show low (87Sr/86Sr) i ranging from 0.700 to 0.705, positive ε Nd(t) values from +0.3 to +0.8, and large variation in ε Hf(t) values of between −4.0 and +2.5, indicating that both newly underplated basalt (70–80%) and ancient lower crustal sources (20–30%) contributed to their origin. Furthermore, positive ε Hf(t) values with two-stage model ages (T DM2) of 1123–1260Ma, together with Nd model ages (960–1000Ma), suggest an important episode of crustal growth during the Meso-Neoproterozoic beneath the Songliao Block. In contrast, the investigated gabbro is characterised by relatively high (87Sr/86Sr) i ratios (0.707–0.708), negative ε Nd(t) (−5.9 to −5.3) and ε Hf(t) values (−5.0 to −2.3), implying that this was derived from an enriched mantle source. The geochemical data indicate that the granitic magmas underwent separation of clinopyroxene, hornblende, K-feldspar, plagioclase, Ti-bearing phases (e.g., rutile, ilmenite, titanite), apatite and zircon during their evolution. Whereas the gabbro is characterised by low MgO (2.92–3.92wt.%), Mg# (35–41) and compatible elements content, such as Cr (10–68ppm), Co (16–31ppm) and Ni (5.7–33ppm), features of a more evolved mafic magma. There is no evidence that the granitic and mafic rocks were affected by crustal contamination during emplacement. Our interpretation is that the two coeval intrusive suites were both formed in a post-orogenic extensional setting, related to lithospheric delamination or ‘collapse’ of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) (Xingmeng orogenic Belt in China). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Over the past decade, as one of nontraditional stable isotopes, Mo isotope has developed rapidly and now become an important geochemical proxy to trace paleo-oceanic and atmospheric evolution through geological history. In this paper, Early Cambrian formations in southern China are investigated. The results indicate that δ97/95Mo values of Early Cambrian seawater may have been larger than 1.4‰, values that are close to those of the modern ocean. It was also found that the variations in Mo isotope composition in samples from two sections (Huangjiawan and Gezhongwu in Guizhou) were closely related to changes in redox conditions during sedimentary processes. Combining our results with existing data, a preliminary model for the evolution of seawater Mo isotope composition through geological history was provided. It indicated that Mo isotopic variations were generally consistent with the evolution of atmospheric oxygen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Late Mesozoic (122.5–127 Ma) mafic dykes (dolerite-porphyries) in the Beibo gold district, Shandong Province, eastern North China Craton, can be subdivided into two groups (high-K and low-K) based upon K2O content. They are characterised by enrichment in light rare earth element (LREE) and some large ion lithophile elements (LILEs) (e.g., Rb, Ba and Sr), similar concentrations of heavy rare earth elements (HREEs), high (87Sr/86Sr) i ranging from 0.7094 to 0.7101, low ε Nd(t) values from −15.3 to −13.9, 206Pb/204Pb=16.98–17.70, 207Pb/204Pb=15.47–15.55 and 208Pb/204Pb=37.61–37.89. In addition, the high-K dolerite-porphyries are distinguished by negative Eu, Nb, Ta, P anomalies in chondrite-normalised REE and primitive-mantle-normalised trace element diagrams. These features suggest that they were derived from a common, enriched garnet-lherzolite mantle beneath the North China Craton, and that this was metasomatised by multiple enrichment events induced by hybridism of foundering lower crust at mantle depths. The low-K dolerite-porphyries were produced by 10–15% partial melting of the garnet-lherzolite source that had undergone metasomatism by carbonate-rich fluids producing secondary phlogopite and amphibole, whereas the high-K group was derived by relatively low-degree (3–5%) partial melting of a source that had experienced metasomatism by a carbonate-rich fluid with crystallisation of only secondary amphibole. The Pd-subgroup platinum-group element (PPGE) (Rh, Pt and Pd) enrichment and Ir-subgroup platinum-group element (IPGE) (Ir and Ru) depletion of these mafic dykes suggest derivation from an S-unsaturated magma. Geochemical and PGE features indicate that fractionation of olivine, clinopyroxene, hornblende, plagioclase, ilmenite, titanite, apatite, laurite and Os–Ir–Ru alloys was important in the formation of the high-K mafic magma. Additionally, separation of all the above phases with the exception of plagioclase and apatite played an important role in the origin of low-K dolerite-porphyries. Minor crustal contamination also occurred during ascent of these mafic magmas. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Herein we present new U–Pb zircon ages, whole-rock geochemical data and Nd–Sr–Hf isotopic data for an Early Palaeozoic monzogranite batholith from the Tengchong–Baoshan Block, Western Yunnan Province, China. Mineralogical and geochemical features suggest that this granitoid is a high-K, calc-alkaline, I-type granite. SHRIMP and laser ablation ICP-MS (LA-ICP-MS) analysis of zircon yields ages of between 499±5Ma and 502±5Ma, for three samples from the batholith. The monzogranite is characterised by high initial 87Sr/86Sr (0.7132–0.7144), negative ε Nd(t) (−9.7 to −9.40) and ε Hf(t) (−10 to −13.1), and is interpreted to derive from remelting of pre-existing Palaeoproterozoic, high-K, metabasaltic rocks of the upper crust. The granitoid magma underwent extensive fractional crystallisation of biotite±hornblende, ilmenite, titanite, K-feldspar and plagioclase during emplacement. The crystallisation temperature of the magma lies in the range 633–733°C, however, there is no evidence to suggest crustal assimilation occurred during its ascent. Like the ∼500Ma, I-type granite of this study, there occur numerous granitoid rocks of Early Palaeozoic age (490–470Ma) in adjacent regions across the entire Tengchong–Baoshan Block (). This episode of plutonism is coeval with the widespread granitoid magmatism found throughout the Indian Plate and the Himalayan Orogenic Belt that are both subordinate parts of the ancient, Gondwana supercontinent. We infer, therefore, that the Tengchong–Baoshan Block may also have formed part of Gondwana, and that it separated from this supercontinent along with other crustal blocks during the Late Palaeozoic. Moreover, based on the findings of this study, we document the occurrence of arc-related magmatism in the Tengchong–Baoshan Block during the late Palaeoproterozoic. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Geogas prospecting is a relatively new technique in exploration for deep-seated and concealed mineral deposits. Now, the technique is to reveal the presence of concealed ore bodies by analyzing the element concentrations of substances that are transported by geogas from concealed ore bodies to the Earth''s surface. However, the element concentrations provide us with limited information about the concealed ore bodies. In our work, to investigate the category, size, shape, chemical component of geogas particles, copper grids for transmission electron microscopy measurement were directly used to capture the geogas-carried solid particles in Quaternary sediments overlying the Changkeng concealed gold deposit, Guangdong Province, South China. In the samples, we found Au, PbSO4, WO3, Fe2O3, SiO2, TiO2, and Al2O3 particles, etc. using a transmission electron microscopy. Of which, gold particles, and Hg-, Zn-, Pb-, W-bearing particles may originate from concealed ore bodies and can provide more direct information than those provided by element concentrations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Shuiyindong is one of the largest and highest grade, stratabound Carlin-type gold deposits in China. It is hosted in Permian bioclastic limestone near the axis of an anticline. Hydrothermal calcite is common on the periphery of central zones of ferroan carbonate dissolution that provided the main source of iron that was sulfidized during gold deposition. These calcite veins contain relatively high concentrations of rare earth elements with MREE-enriched patterns, and yield Sm-Nd isochron ages of 134±3 Ma to 136±3 Ma, with significant different initial εNd values of −12.9 and −2.0, respectively. These ages are interpreted to record age of decarbonation and gold deposition during the late stages of Yanshanian Orogeny. The initial Nd isotopic compositions of the calcites suggest that Nd was primarily derived from the Permian Longtang Formation that hosts all ore bodies at the deposit. This study shows that Sm-Nd isotopic compositions of hydrothermal calcites can be used to constrain the age and source of Nd in Carlin-type gold deposits. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Post-orogenic alkaline intrusions and associated mafic dikes from the Sulu orogenic belt of eastern China consist of quartz monzonites, A-type granites and associated mafic dikes. We report here U–Pb zircon ages, geochemical data and Sr–Nd–Pb–Hf isotopic data for these rocks. The SHRIMP U–Pb zircon analyses yield consistent ages ranging from 120.3±2.1 Ma to 126.9±1.9 Ma for five samples from the felsic rocks, and two crystallization ages of 119.0±1.7 Ma and 120.2±1.9 Ma for the mafic dikes. The felsic rocks and mafic dikes are characterized by high (87Sr/86Sr)i ranging from 0.7079 to 0.7089, low ε Nd(t) values from −15.3 to −19.2, 206Pb/204Pb=16.54–17.25, 207Pb/204Pb=15.38–15.63, 208Pb/204Pb=37.15–38.45, and relatively uniform ε Hf(t) values of between −21.6±0.6 and −23.7±1.0, for the magmatic zircons. The results suggest that they were derived from a common enriched lithospheric mantle source that was metasomatized by foundered lower crustal eclogitic materials before magma generation. Geochemical and isotopic characteristics imply that the primary magma to these rocks originated through partial melting of ancient lithospheric mantle that was variably hybridized by melts derived from foundered lower crustal eclogite. The mafic dikes may have been generated by subsequent fractionation of clinopyroxene, whereas the felsic rocks resulted from fractionation of potassium feldspar, plagioclase and ilmenite or rutile. Both were not affected by crustal contamination. Combined with previous studies, these findings provide new evidence that the intense lithospheric thinning beneath the Sulu belt of eastern China occurred between 119 and 127 Ma, and that this was caused by the removal of the lower lithosphere (mantle and lower crust). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper the authors present the REE concentrations and Sr and Nd isotopic compositions of fluorites from the Bailashui tin deposit of the Furong ore field, southern Hunan Province. The results showed that the total amount of REE in fluorites is usually low, ranging from 0.705 to 8.785 μg/g with the chondrite-normalized REE distribution patterns similar to those of the Qitianling granites in the study area, characterized by LREE-enrichment patterns with pronounced negative Eu anomalies. The fluorites vary in Sr isotopic composition within the range of 0.7083–0.7091, the values are lower than those of the granites and higher than those of the host carbonate rocks in this area. The ɛNd( t) values of fluorites vary between −9.4 and +10.3, revealing that both the crust-and mantle-source materials were involved in the ore-forming hydrothermal fluids. Combined with previous studies on this ore deposit, the Bailashui tin deposit is temporally and spatially closely related with granitic magmatism in this area. The hydrothermal fluorites are the product of fluid/rock interactions between granitic magmatic hydrothermal fluid and marine carbonate rocks. The REE and F in the ore-forming fluid were derived from the granites, whereas Sr in the ore-forming fluid came mainly from the granitic magmatic hydrothermal fluid and marine carbonate rocks, although variations in Sr isotopic composition cannot be explained by a simple mixture of these two end-members. Evidence demonstrated that the ore-forming fluids are of crustal-mantle mixing origin, but that the fluids were probably incompletely homogenized and this may be caused by inhomogeneous mixing of the fluids of different sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The No. 302 uranium deposit, located in Guangdong Province, is a typical granite-type uranium ore deposit. REE geochemical characteristics of the wall rocks, pitchblende, altered rocks, calcite and fluorite from this deposit have been systematically studied in this paper. The result showed that the alkali-metasomatic granites and other altered rocks have the same REE distribution patterns as Indosinian granites. It is indicated that the hydrothermal ore-forming solution had altered the Indosinian granites, and ore-forming materials may directly originate from the Indosinian granites. Calcite and fluorite of different stages are the products derived from the same source but different stages. The evolution and degassing of the mineralizing solution might induce LREE enrichment to varying degree. Mantle fluid and a large volume of mineralizer may be the crucial factors controlling uranium mineralization, and the hydrothermal solution with mineralizer played an important role in U transport and concentration. Meanwhile, the degassing of CO2 might promote U and REE precipitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The selenium isotopic ratios have been measured in the Yutangba Se deposit, Hubei Province, China. The results show that the δ82/76SeNIST values vary from -12.77‰ to 4.93‰, which is the largest Se isotopic variation found so far in natural terrestrial samples. The sample Ytb-5 of high-selenium carbonaceous shale has the lightest Se isotopic composition with a δ82/76SeNIST value of -12.77‰. On the basis of variations of Se isotope in the deposit along with other geological and geochemical evidence, the ‘redox model’ is suggested to favor the explanation of the occurrence of native Se in the deposit. The application to the Yutangba Se deposit with the discovery of large Se isotopic fractionation for natural samples indicates the potential of Se isotope as a new geochemical tracer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bancun diabase dyke and the Bali hornblende gabbro dyke in western Fujian Province were emplaced in the Early and Late Cretaceous periods, respectively; the former is designated to calc-alkaline series and the latter to K-high-calc-alkaline rock series. Both the dykes are characterized by such geochemical characteristics as high Al and Na2O>K2O. As for the Bancun dyke, Al2O3=16.32%−17.54% and K2O/Na2O=0.65−0.77; as for the Bali dyke, Al2O3=16.89%−17.81% and K2O/Na2O=0.93−0.99. Both the Bancun and Bali mafic dykes are relatively enriched in LILE and LREE, but depleted in HSFE, displaying the geochemical characteristics of continental marginal arc, with high initial Sr isotopic ratios and low ɛNd( t) values. The (87Sr/86Sr)i ratios of the Bancun diabase dyke are within the range of 0.708556–0.70903 and their ɛNd( t) values vary between −6.8 and −6.3; those of the Bali hornblende dyke are within the range of 0.710726–0.710746 and their ɛNd( t) values are −4.7–−4.9, showing the characteristics of enriched mantle EM II. The isotope and trace element data showed that the mafic dykes have not experienced obvious crustal contamination, and metasomatism caused by subduction fluids is the main factor leading to LILE and LREE enrichments. The enriched mantle is the source region for the mafic dykes, and mixing of subduction fluid metasomatized enriched mantle and EM II-type mantle constituted the mantle source region of both the Bancun and Bali mafic dykes. Upwelling of the asthenosphere mantle provided sufficient heat energy for the generation of magmas. In accordance with the discrimination diagram of their tectonic settings as well as their trace element geochemical characteristics, it is considered that the dykes both at Bancun and Bali possess the characteristics of continental marginal arc, revealing the tectonic environment of formation of the mafic dykes, the continental dynamic background as an intraplate tensional belt in which the mafic dykes were emplaced. Meanwhile, it is also indicated that the tensional tectonic stress mechanism is responsible for the formation of the mafic dykes in western Fujian Province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkali-rich intrusive rocks in western Yunnan were derived from an enriched lithospheric mantle (EM II) source. The data available indicated they are alkali-rich (K2O + Na2O > 8wt%) and shoshonitic. Although formed in a within-plate environment they exhibit signatures of arc magmatic rocks, such as high amounts of LILE and LREE relative to the HFSE and HREE, and thus high Ba/Nb, Ba/Zr, Sr/Y, La/Yb ratios as well as mimic chondrite-normalized REE and primitive mantle-normalized trace element patterns of subducted sediments, and they fall in the collision- or arc-related tectonic setting field on all discrimination diagrams. This might suggest the enrichment be related to the substantial extent of sediment contamination by the Mesozoic Tethyan subduction processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

REE and other trace elements in ores, wall rocks, alkaline volcanic rocks and diabase dikes have been determined in the Yinachang Fe-Cu-REE deposit. Comparative studies of REE and trace element geochemical characteristics of these geological bodies indicate that the ores and alkaline volcanic rocks contain abundant REE and Y (65.9 - 4633) x 10-6, with higher abundances of As, Mo, Nb, Co and U than those of the crust. Their chondrite-normalized patterns show a strong enrichment of LREE and a positive Eu anomaly, in contrast to those of the dolomites which are characterized by slight LREE enrichment and moderate negative Eu anomaly. The REE patterns of ores are similar to those of hydrothermal sediment cores in the East Pacific Rise, whereas the REE patterns of dolomites are similar to those of PAAS (Post-Archean Average Shale). In combination with the geological setting of the deposit, the primary ore-forming fluids might have higher REE and volatile elements, and might have been derived from mantle degassing, or the alkaline volcanic magmas. The Yinachang Fe-Cu-REE ore deposit is considered to be of volcanic exhalation-hydrothermal sedimentary origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Causes of Keshan–Beck disease (KBD) are still being probed and monitored in China. Relationships between trace elements from eco-environmental systems and KBD are poorly understood although relationships between environmental Se and human health have received extensive attention. In order to investigate relationships between eco-environmental geochemistry and KBD, we selected the Chousang KBD area in Yao County, Shaanxi Province, China, as an example of a prevailing KBD area applying I–Se-rich salts instead of utilizing Se-rich fertilisers on food crops to prevent local residents from developing KBD before 1995. Environmentally geochemical samples (rocks, soils, plants and children’s hair) were collected from the Chousang KBD area. Soils in the study area contain 0.11±0.02 µg Se g-1, 0.75±0.11 µg Mo g-1, and 34.5±1.5 µg B g-1 on average, indicating that the study area is a deficient-Se–Mo–B area. Se (0.07±0.007 µg g-1), Mo (0.35±0.09 µg g-1) and B (3±0 µg g-1) contents are low in wheat and corn used as a daily main food staple of local inhabitants. It is indicated that the study area is deficient in environmental Se–Mo–B for the local residents. Se contents of children’s hair from the Yangyuan Elementary School in the study area range from 0.09 to 0.26 µg Se g-1 with an average of 0.165±0.05 µg Se g-1 (n=10) in this KBD endemic area. Due to the low levels of Se, Mo and B available in soils and rocks, crops including wheat and corn are deficient in these elements, accordingly, the deficiency of Se, Mo and B in this area may be linked to the daily consumption of wheat and corn deficient in Se, Mo and B. Therefore, local inhabitants should be encouraged to fertilise mixtures of Se, Mo and B on crop plants in order to avoid development of KBD and guarantee a good harvest of crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on the emplacement ages of lamproites in the Guinzhou Province in China. Influence of the whole-rock Sm-Nd and Rb-Sr isochron methods in constraining the lamproites; Occurrence of intrusive activities of lamproites in the region; Emplacement of the upwelling of hot materials derived from the deep mantle from the Late Cambrian to the Early Ordovician.

The Ankang black shales in P. R. of China provides an important example of natural geological materials containing toxic elements. This paper presents the results of environmental geochemical research on black shales, soils, waters and edible plants in the Ankang area, Shaanxi Province, P. R. of China. The study area lies in the northern margin of the Yangtze Platform; there are black shales which contains black shale, carbonaceous rocks and coal in the Cambrian Donghe Formation throughout the area. Mean trace element concentrations of the coal were high. Soils derived from these rocks tend to reflect their extreme geochemical composition. Chemical analysis of common plant species in the Ankang area showed a heterogeneous distribution of Se, Mo, and V within a single and among plant species. Selenium was more concentrated in radish than in legumes, and in potato more than in green vegetable. High V concentrations were found in two kinds of Chinese tea. Legume had more Mo in the seed than potato, although Mo concentrations in radish vary. Higher concentrations of Se and Mo are present in the leaf of radish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the diagenetic-metallogenic ages of pyritic cherts and implications in Mojiang nickel-gold deposit in Yunnan Province, China. Formation of nickel-gold-bearing pyritic cherts; Initiation of deep-water cherts from Jinchang Rock Formation; Use of the tectonic method in the analysis.

Presents a study that described the geological and geochemical characteristics of cherts and their genesis to understand the metallogenic rule of the Mojiang gold deposit in China. Major element geochemical characteristics; Trace elements contents; Oxygen isotopic composition and the equilibrium temperature.

Presents a study that analyzed the trace elements in fluid inclusions from the Carlin-type gold deposits in southwestern Guizhou Province, China. Experimental conditions; Limit of instrumental determination and blank determination of leach solution; Contents of trace elements in quartz fluid inclusions from the Carlin-type gold deposits.