Pub Date : 2026-01-18DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2026.107124
Yan Luan , Zhen-Ye Zhang , Yi-Jun Wang , Xiao-Hui Sun , Matthew J. Brzozowski , Chang-Zhi Wu
The Wajilitag intrusion is one of the most important mafic–ultramafic layered intrusions in the Tarim Large Igneous Province (LIP) as it hosts significant Fe–Ti–V mineralization. Despite this, the ubiquitous zoned clinopyroxene in this intrusion have largely been overlooked, limiting our understanding of the magmatic processes by which it formed. Here, we utilize major- and trace-element compositions of clinopyroxene to assess the petrogenetic evolution of Wajilitag, including the pressure–temperature conditions of crystallization, the magmatic processes by which it evolved, and the processes that led to the formation of Fe–Ti–V mineralization. Four types of zoned clinopyroxene are identified based on texture and zoning patterns. Type 1 clinopyroxene is characterized by abrupt zones and contains rounded, irregularly resorbed high-Mg cores (Mg# = 80.5–85.2) surrounded by low-Mg rims (Mg# = 66.1–77.5). Type 2–1 clinopyroxene is characterized by oscillatory zoning in which the mantle (Mg# = 73.8–80.3) has notably higher Mg contents than the core (Mg# = 72.7–77.1) and rim (Mg# = 70.7–75.1). Type 2–2 clinopyroxene exhibits normal zoning, in which Mg# and Cr contents gradually decrease from the core through the mantle to the rim. Type 3 clinopyroxene displays prism sector ({-111}) and hourglass sector ({010} and {110}) zoning, the presence of which implies a low to moderate degree of undercooling (ΔT = 40–51 °C). Type 4 clinopyroxene is euhedral and exhibits complex zoning (Mg# = 70.7–77.7). Clinopyroxene-only thermobarometry for mafic rocks at Wajilitag delineate two distinct magma reservoirs — (1) a deep, high-temperature magma chamber at ∼ 9.9 km depth and (2) a shallow, low-temperature magma chamber at ∼ 5.9 km depth. The parental magma in the deep chamber was likely more primitive than that in the shallow chamber, forming the Cr–Mg-rich core of type 1 clinopyroxene; the more evolved nature of the magma in the shallow chamber formed Cr–Ni-depleted clinopyroxenes represented by clinopyroxene types 2–4 and the rim of type 1. The H2O contents of the parental magmas range from 1.3–2.3 wt% (average = 1.8 wt%) in the deep magma chamber and 0.8–3.0 wt% (average = 2.0 wt%) in the shallow chamber. Iron–Ti oxides in the Wajilitag intrusion crystallized from an Fe–Ti-rich, oxidized, and hydrous magma at pressures and temperatures of 0.4–1.6 kbar and 1096–1137℃, respectively, and then accumulated during magma replenishment and vigorous convection. The complex textural and compositional characteristics of clinopyroxene at Wajilitag indicate that the intrusion represents an open magmatic plumbing system beneath the Tarim LIP that was periodically replenished by evolved and hydrous magmas.
{"title":"Complex magmatic processes recorded by zoned clinopyroxene in the Wajilitag mafic–ultramafic intrusion of the Permian Tarim Large Igneous Province, northwest China","authors":"Yan Luan , Zhen-Ye Zhang , Yi-Jun Wang , Xiao-Hui Sun , Matthew J. Brzozowski , Chang-Zhi Wu","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2026.107124","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2026.107124","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Wajilitag intrusion is one of the most important mafic–ultramafic layered intrusions in the Tarim Large Igneous Province (LIP) as it hosts significant Fe–Ti–V mineralization. Despite this, the ubiquitous zoned clinopyroxene in this intrusion have largely been overlooked, limiting our understanding of the magmatic processes by which it formed. Here, we utilize major- and trace-element compositions of clinopyroxene to assess the petrogenetic evolution of Wajilitag, including the pressure–temperature conditions of crystallization, the magmatic processes by which it evolved, and the processes that led to the formation of Fe–Ti–V mineralization. Four types of zoned clinopyroxene are identified based on texture and zoning patterns. Type 1 clinopyroxene is characterized by abrupt zones and contains rounded, irregularly resorbed high-Mg cores (Mg# = 80.5–85.2) surrounded by low-Mg rims (Mg# = 66.1–77.5). Type 2–1 clinopyroxene is characterized by oscillatory zoning in which the mantle (Mg# = 73.8–80.3) has notably higher Mg contents than the core (Mg# = 72.7–77.1) and rim (Mg# = 70.7–75.1). Type 2–2 clinopyroxene exhibits normal zoning, in which Mg# and Cr contents gradually decrease from the core through the mantle to the rim. Type 3 clinopyroxene displays prism sector ({-111}) and hourglass sector ({010} and {110}) zoning, the presence of which implies a low to moderate degree of undercooling (ΔT = 40–51 °C). Type 4 clinopyroxene is euhedral and exhibits complex zoning (Mg# = 70.7–77.7). Clinopyroxene-only thermobarometry for mafic rocks at Wajilitag delineate two distinct magma reservoirs — (1) a deep, high-temperature magma chamber at ∼ 9.9 km depth and (2) a shallow, low-temperature magma chamber at ∼ 5.9 km depth. The parental magma in the deep chamber was likely more primitive than that in the shallow chamber, forming the Cr–Mg-rich core of type 1 clinopyroxene; the more evolved nature of the magma in the shallow chamber formed Cr–Ni-depleted clinopyroxenes represented by clinopyroxene types 2–4 and the rim of type 1. The H<sub>2</sub>O contents of the parental magmas range from 1.3–2.3 wt% (average = 1.8 wt%) in the deep magma chamber and 0.8–3.0 wt% (average = 2.0 wt%) in the shallow chamber. Iron–Ti oxides in the Wajilitag intrusion crystallized from an Fe–Ti-rich, oxidized, and hydrous magma at pressures and temperatures of 0.4–1.6 kbar and 1096–1137℃, respectively, and then accumulated during magma replenishment and vigorous convection. The complex textural and compositional characteristics of clinopyroxene at Wajilitag indicate that the intrusion represents an open magmatic plumbing system beneath the Tarim LIP that was periodically replenished by evolved and hydrous magmas.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"189 ","pages":"Article 107124"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146039370","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-17DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107091
Iqtidar Hussain , Huan Li , Mohamed Faisal , Asad Khan , Mohammad Naseer , Jubril Izge Hassan , Hasnain Ali
The Kohistan terrane of northern Pakistan, one of the largest Cretaceous island-arc complexes, is well documented in terms of tectono-magmatic evolution, yet its metallogenic framework remains poorly constrained. The Danyore Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan hosts Cu-Au-bearing quartz veins associated with Mesozoic gabbro-diorite intrusions of the Ladakh-Kohistan arc. The age, petrogenesis, and ore-forming processes of this system have not previously been established. Here, we integrate field observations, petrography, whole-rock geochemistry, LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb geochronology, zircon and sulfide geochemistry, and S-Pb isotopic data to constrain the evolution of the host rocks and the origin of mineralization. Zircon U–Pb dating indicates Early Cretaceous crystallization ages (∼110 Ma) for the host rocks, while geochemical signatures reveal a calc-alkaline arc affinity, derived from a depleted mantle source metasomatized by slab-derived fluids and modified through fractional crystallization in a continental margin setting. The sulfide mineralization occurs in NW- and NE-trending quartz veins dominated by chalcopyrite, pyrite, and bornite with notable gold enrichment, accompanied by phyllic, propylitic, and carbonatization alteration. Sulfur and lead isotope compositions suggest mixed mantle and crustal sources, including contributions from granitoids of the Kohistan Batholith. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the Danyore Valley mineralization represents an Early Cretaceous, structurally controlled, arc-related Cu–Au vein system, thereby reducing metallogenic uncertainty within the Kohistan terrane and highlighting its exploration potential.
{"title":"Cu-Au vein-type mineralization in the Danyore Valley, Kohistan arc, northern Pakistan: Insights from geochemistry, geochronology, and sulfide alteration","authors":"Iqtidar Hussain , Huan Li , Mohamed Faisal , Asad Khan , Mohammad Naseer , Jubril Izge Hassan , Hasnain Ali","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107091","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107091","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Kohistan terrane of northern Pakistan, one of the largest Cretaceous island-arc complexes, is well documented in terms of tectono-magmatic evolution, yet its metallogenic framework remains poorly constrained. The Danyore Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan hosts Cu-Au-bearing quartz veins associated with Mesozoic gabbro-diorite intrusions of the Ladakh-Kohistan arc. The age, petrogenesis, and ore-forming processes of this system have not previously been established. Here, we integrate field observations, petrography, whole-rock geochemistry, LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb geochronology, zircon and sulfide geochemistry, and S-Pb isotopic data to constrain the evolution of the host rocks and the origin of mineralization. Zircon U–Pb dating indicates Early Cretaceous crystallization ages (∼110 Ma) for the host rocks, while geochemical signatures reveal a calc-alkaline arc affinity, derived from a depleted mantle source metasomatized by slab-derived fluids and modified through fractional crystallization in a continental margin setting. The sulfide mineralization occurs in NW- and NE-trending quartz veins dominated by chalcopyrite, pyrite, and bornite with notable gold enrichment, accompanied by phyllic, propylitic, and carbonatization alteration. Sulfur and lead isotope compositions suggest mixed mantle and crustal sources, including contributions from granitoids of the Kohistan Batholith. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the Danyore Valley mineralization represents an Early Cretaceous, structurally controlled, arc-related Cu–Au vein system, thereby reducing metallogenic uncertainty within the Kohistan terrane and highlighting its exploration potential.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"189 ","pages":"Article 107091"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146039305","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-11DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107095
Fenghua Gu , Xiang Fang , Juxing Tang , Pan Tang , Hongjin Chen , Aorigele Zhou , Miao Sun , Zhengkun Yang
The Jiama giant copper polymetallic deposit is one of the most important deposits in the Gangdise metallogenic belt, which consists of hornfels-type Cu-Mo, skarn-type Cu-polymetallic, porphyry-type Mo-Cu, and distal vein-type Au orebodies with associated Ag, W, and Bi mineralizations. This deposit develops a large number of copper sulfides, such as bornite, juxingite and chalcopyrite. This study carried out LA-ICP-MS and EPMA analyses on the aforementioned copper sulfides to (1) assess the elements’ partitioning and distribution pattern in the mineral assemblage, (2) trace the ore-forming material source, (3) decipher the metallogenetic physicochemical environment, and (4) ascertain the gold enrichment mechanism. The study results show that both bornite and juxingite are enriched in Bi, in particular with the juxingite, whose Bi peak content reaches 80425 ppm. Besides, as the most important gold carrier in the Jiama deposit, bornite contains significantly more Au and Ag contents than those in other sulfides, and the content of Bi, Au and Ag in bornite shows a decreasing trend from the distal skarn to the proximal skarn. In contrast to bornite and juxingite, chalcopyrite possesses much lower Bi, Au and Ag contents. Elemental correlation analysis shows that the contents of Au and Ag in bornite and chalcopyrite are positively correlated with those of the elements, such as Bi, Te and Se, which could be indicative of the spatial location of mineralization. The δ34S values of the most sulfide samples in Jiama deposit range from −3.42 to −0.9, which are similar to those in the porphyry of the Gangdise metallogenic belt, indicating an ore-forming material source of the neogenic lower crust with addition of the mantle-derived materials. Locally, some bornite samples possess much lower δ34S values (−7.52 to −6.81), which implies that there maybe a mixing of the organic sulfur from the wall rocks of the Linbuzong Formation or sulfur isotope fractionation caused by cooling. The formation temperature of bornite-chalcopyrite assemblages ranges from 236℃ to 345℃, and the mineral assemblages reveal that the log fS2 was greater than −12 during the main stage of skarn mineralization, while the fS2 was less than −11 during the late mineralization of skarn. The gold enrichment in bornite and juxingite was closely relevant to existence of the Bi-Au melt. During the mineralization process, Bi melts scavenged Au from hydrothermal fluids, and the fluctuation of oxygen fugacity led to precipitation of the Bi-Au melts and enrichment of gold in bornite. With the temperature cooling, the juxingite exsolved from the bornite and captured the residual gold in the fluid.
{"title":"In situ compositions and sulfur isotopes of the copper sulfides from the Jiama giant copper polymetallic deposit: implications for ore-forming material sources, gold enrichment mechanism and mineral exploration","authors":"Fenghua Gu , Xiang Fang , Juxing Tang , Pan Tang , Hongjin Chen , Aorigele Zhou , Miao Sun , Zhengkun Yang","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107095","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107095","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Jiama giant copper polymetallic deposit is one of the most important deposits in the Gangdise metallogenic belt, which consists of hornfels-type Cu-Mo, skarn-type Cu-polymetallic, porphyry-type Mo-Cu, and distal vein-type Au orebodies with associated Ag, W, and Bi mineralizations. This deposit develops a large number of copper sulfides, such as bornite, juxingite and chalcopyrite. This study carried out LA-ICP-MS and EPMA analyses on the aforementioned copper sulfides to (1) assess the elements’ partitioning and distribution pattern in the mineral assemblage, (2) trace the ore-forming material source, (3) decipher the metallogenetic physicochemical environment, and (4) ascertain the gold enrichment mechanism. The study results show that both bornite and juxingite are enriched in Bi, in particular with the juxingite, whose Bi peak content reaches 80425 ppm. Besides, as the most important gold carrier in the Jiama deposit, bornite contains significantly more Au and Ag contents than those in other sulfides, and the content of Bi, Au and Ag in bornite shows a decreasing trend from the distal skarn to the proximal skarn. In contrast to bornite and juxingite, chalcopyrite possesses much lower Bi, Au and Ag contents. Elemental correlation analysis shows that the contents of Au and Ag in bornite and chalcopyrite are positively correlated with those of the elements, such as Bi, Te and Se, which could be indicative of the spatial location of mineralization. The δ<sup>34</sup>S values of the most sulfide samples in Jiama deposit range from −3.42 to −0.9, which are similar to those in the porphyry of the Gangdise metallogenic belt, indicating an ore-forming material source of the neogenic lower crust with addition of the mantle-derived materials. Locally, some bornite samples possess much lower δ<sup>34</sup>S values (−7.52 to −6.81), which implies that there maybe a mixing of the organic sulfur from the wall rocks of the Linbuzong Formation or sulfur isotope fractionation caused by cooling. The formation temperature of bornite-chalcopyrite assemblages ranges from 236℃ to 345℃, and the mineral assemblages reveal that the log <em>f</em>S<sub>2</sub> was greater than −12 during the main stage of skarn mineralization, while the <em>f</em>S<sub>2</sub> was less than −11 during the late mineralization of skarn. The gold enrichment in bornite and juxingite was closely relevant to existence of the Bi-Au melt. During the mineralization process, Bi melts scavenged Au from hydrothermal fluids, and the fluctuation of oxygen fugacity led to precipitation of the Bi-Au melts and enrichment of gold in bornite. With the temperature cooling, the juxingite exsolved from the bornite and captured the residual gold in the fluid.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"189 ","pages":"Article 107095"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145981696","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-09DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107083
Yu Zhou , Yong Zhang , Zhe Xu , Fangrong Zhang , Jiayong Pan , Haotong Dai , Fushen Zhang , Wei Wan , Bin He , Cong Liu
The Hailuoling Nb–Ta deposit in the Wuyi metallogenic belt of South China represents a typical granite-related rare-metal system that has recently been recognized to host associated Li mineralization. To constrain its metallogenic evolution, we integrate petrological, geochronological, and geochemical data. LA–ICP–MS U–Pb dating of monazite and columbite–tantalite indicates that the porphyritic biotite monzogranite crystallized at 147.2 ± 1.9 Ma, whereas Nb–Ta mineralization occurred at 144.4 ± 2.1 Ma, both during the Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous transition. Li-bearing micas including protolithionite, zinnwaldite, lithium phengite, and lithium muscovite, in mineralized granite replace primary biotite, feldspar, and quartz and display irregular grain boundaries and well-developed compositional zoning, providing textural evidence for hydrothermal metasomatism. Mica compositions define a systematic evolutionary trend characterized by increasing SiO2 and decreasing FeO contents, while trace element data reveal an initial enrichment followed by depletion of Li, Nb, and Ta. These features support a two-stage model involving an early post-magmatic hydrothermalism stage followed by a later hydrothermal metasomatism stage. Hydrothermal micas are characterized by Nb/Ta ratios of 0.5–2.5 and K/Rb ratios of 8–12. Comparative analyses with micas from unmineralized granites and from the Maoping and Xianghualing deposits highlights the necessity of overprinting by late-stage magmatic–hydrothermal fluids, in combination with external fluid input, to achieve economically significant rare-metal enrichment in early intrusions that did not independently reach ore-forming thresholds. We conclude that the interplay between magmatic differentiation and hydrothermal overprinting is critical for the mobilization and concentration of rare metals in certain granitic systems.
{"title":"Magmatic and hydrothermal superimposition in Nb-Ta-Li mineralization at the Hailuoling deposit, South China: Records from columbite-tantalite chronology and mica chemistry","authors":"Yu Zhou , Yong Zhang , Zhe Xu , Fangrong Zhang , Jiayong Pan , Haotong Dai , Fushen Zhang , Wei Wan , Bin He , Cong Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107083","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107083","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Hailuoling Nb–Ta deposit in the Wuyi metallogenic belt of South China represents a typical granite-related rare-metal system that has recently been recognized to host associated Li mineralization. To constrain its metallogenic evolution, we integrate petrological, geochronological, and geochemical data. LA–ICP–MS U–Pb dating of monazite and columbite–tantalite indicates that the porphyritic biotite monzogranite crystallized at 147.2 ± 1.9 Ma, whereas Nb–Ta mineralization occurred at 144.4 ± 2.1 Ma, both during the Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous transition. Li-bearing micas including protolithionite, zinnwaldite, lithium phengite, and lithium muscovite, in mineralized granite replace primary biotite, feldspar, and quartz and display irregular grain boundaries and well-developed compositional zoning, providing textural evidence for hydrothermal metasomatism. Mica compositions define a systematic evolutionary trend characterized by increasing SiO<sub>2</sub> and decreasing FeO contents, while trace element data reveal an initial enrichment followed by depletion of Li, Nb, and Ta. These features support a two-stage model involving an early post-magmatic hydrothermalism stage followed by a later hydrothermal metasomatism stage. Hydrothermal micas are characterized by Nb/Ta ratios of 0.5–2.5 and K/Rb ratios of 8–12. Comparative analyses with micas from unmineralized granites and from the Maoping and Xianghualing deposits highlights the necessity of overprinting by late-stage magmatic–hydrothermal fluids, in combination with external fluid input, to achieve economically significant rare-metal enrichment in early intrusions that did not independently reach ore-forming thresholds. We conclude that the interplay between magmatic differentiation and hydrothermal overprinting is critical for the mobilization and concentration of rare metals in certain granitic systems.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"189 ","pages":"Article 107083"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145950229","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-05DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2026.107108
Shuai Zhang, Xiaomeng Sun, Xi Xu, Qinfu Liu
The North China Craton (NCC) experiences two major coal-forming episodes: the Late Carboniferous–Early Permian and the Early–Middle Jurassic. Despite the tectonically active setting of the NCC during the Middle Jurassic, volcanic-ash-altered kaolinitic layers and an enrichment of critical metals are notably lacking in Middle Jurassic coal seams relative to those of the Carboniferous–Permian, and the causes of this disparity remain unclear. This study investigates the contributions of inorganic inputs during peat accumulation and the influence of hydrothermal activity on Middle Jurassic coal seams in the Ordos Basin, aiming to clarify the geological controls underlying this disparity. The clastic materials of the coal and partings were derived from the weathering of uplifts around Ordos Basin, without a critical metals-rich source rocks therein. The peat accumulation during the Middle Jurassic did not coincide with intensive magmatic events in adjacent tectonic domains (Mongol–Okhotsk, Paleo-Pacific, and Bangong-Nujiang Tethys), resulting in limited volcanic ash input. Although the No. 6 coal seam contains XRD-detectable apatite, it is authigenic, forming during peat deposition or early diagenesis, and is not significantly enriched in rare earth elements. Moreover, the intense Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous magmatic–hydrothermal activity linked to rollback of the subducted Paleo-Pacific Plate in the eastern NCC did not extend to the Ordos Basin. Therefore, the lack of volcanic-ash-altered kaolinitic layers and an enrichment of critical metals in the Middle Jurassic coal seams is primarily attributed to the limited supply of critical metal-enriched detrital material and volcanic ash, and negligible hydrothermal influence during and after peat accumulation.
{"title":"Why Middle Jurassic coal seams generally lack volcanic-ash-altered kaolinitic layers and critical metals enrichment compared to the Carboniferous-Permian in the Ordos Basin, North China?","authors":"Shuai Zhang, Xiaomeng Sun, Xi Xu, Qinfu Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2026.107108","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2026.107108","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The North China Craton (NCC) experiences two major coal-forming episodes: the Late Carboniferous–Early Permian and the Early–Middle Jurassic. Despite the tectonically active setting of the NCC during the Middle Jurassic, volcanic-ash-altered kaolinitic layers and an enrichment of critical metals are notably lacking in Middle Jurassic coal seams relative to those of the Carboniferous–Permian, and the causes of this disparity remain unclear. This study investigates the contributions of inorganic inputs during peat accumulation and the influence of hydrothermal activity on Middle Jurassic coal seams in the Ordos Basin, aiming to clarify the geological controls underlying this disparity. The clastic materials of the coal and partings were derived from the weathering of uplifts around Ordos Basin, without a critical metals-rich source rocks therein. The peat accumulation during the Middle Jurassic did not coincide with intensive magmatic events in adjacent tectonic domains (Mongol–Okhotsk, Paleo-Pacific, and Bangong-Nujiang Tethys), resulting in limited volcanic ash input. Although the No. 6 coal seam contains XRD-detectable apatite, it is authigenic, forming during peat deposition or early diagenesis, and is not significantly enriched in rare earth elements. Moreover, the intense Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous magmatic–hydrothermal activity linked to rollback of the subducted Paleo-Pacific Plate in the eastern NCC did not extend to the Ordos Basin. Therefore, the lack of volcanic-ash-altered kaolinitic layers and an enrichment of critical metals in the Middle Jurassic coal seams is primarily attributed to the limited supply of critical metal-enriched detrital material and volcanic ash, and negligible hydrothermal influence during and after peat accumulation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"189 ","pages":"Article 107108"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145950195","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107079
Xuan Wu , Li-Xing Li , Jing-Wen Mao , Hou-Min Li , Yu-Bo Ma , Yi Wang , Yang Dai , Xiao-Hui Wang
Phosphate deposits of both sedimentary and igneous origins are the most important sources of phosphorus in the world. Neoarchean metamorphic series-hosted apatite-magnetite deposits in the northern North China Craton (NCC) are important sources of P and Fe. However, the genesis of some deposits remains controversial, as they are proposed to have formed through sedimentary-metamorphic processes in the phosphorus-deficient Neoarchean environment. The Wulanwusu P-Fe deposit in the Jianping area is a typical example, with the P-Fe mineralization typically composed of plagioclase, amphibole, biotite, apatite and Fe-Ti oxides. This study aims to constrain the geological controls on P-Fe mineralization through petrographic, geochronological, and geochemical analyses of P-Fe ores. Zircon U-Pb geochronology yielded a weighted crystallization age at 1730 ± 6 Ma, precisely constraining the timing of mineralization to the late Paleoproterozoic. Petrographic observations, whole-rock and apatite geochemistry collectively indicate that the mineralization is associated with a mafic magmatic event, supporting its classification as a late Paleoproterozoic igneous P-Fe deposit. Our results clearly rule out a previously suggested link between P-Fe mineralization and metamorphosed Neoarchean volcano-sedimentary rocks. The Nd-Hf isotopic compositions suggest that the parental magma was derived from an enriched subcontinental lithospheric mantle source. Combined with geochronological and geochemical evidence, these results indicate that the formation of the Wulanwusu P-Fe deposit is linked to the late Paleoproterozoic AMCG suite magmatism in the northern NCC and occurred in a post-collisional extensional stage following the convergence of the eastern and western blocks of the NCC.
{"title":"Geochronology and geochemistry of the Wulanwusu P-Fe deposit, northern North China Craton: Evidence for a genetic link to the Paleoproterozoic anorthosite-mangerite-charnockite-granite (AMCG) suite","authors":"Xuan Wu , Li-Xing Li , Jing-Wen Mao , Hou-Min Li , Yu-Bo Ma , Yi Wang , Yang Dai , Xiao-Hui Wang","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107079","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107079","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Phosphate deposits of both sedimentary and igneous origins are the most important sources of phosphorus in the world. Neoarchean metamorphic series-hosted apatite-magnetite deposits in the northern North China Craton (NCC) are important sources of P and Fe. However, the genesis of some deposits remains controversial, as they are proposed to have formed through sedimentary-metamorphic processes in the phosphorus-deficient Neoarchean environment. The Wulanwusu P-Fe deposit in the Jianping area is a typical example, with the P-Fe mineralization typically composed of plagioclase, amphibole, biotite, apatite and Fe-Ti oxides. This study aims to constrain the geological controls on P-Fe mineralization through petrographic, geochronological, and geochemical analyses of P-Fe ores. Zircon U-Pb geochronology yielded a weighted crystallization age at 1730 ± 6 Ma, precisely constraining the timing of mineralization to the late Paleoproterozoic. Petrographic observations, whole-rock and apatite geochemistry collectively indicate that the mineralization is associated with a mafic magmatic event, supporting its classification as a late Paleoproterozoic igneous P-Fe deposit. Our results clearly rule out a previously suggested link between P-Fe mineralization and metamorphosed Neoarchean volcano-sedimentary rocks. The Nd-Hf isotopic compositions suggest that the parental magma was derived from an enriched subcontinental lithospheric mantle source. Combined with geochronological and geochemical evidence, these results indicate that the formation of the Wulanwusu P-Fe deposit is linked to the late Paleoproterozoic AMCG suite magmatism in the northern NCC and occurred in a post-collisional extensional stage following the convergence of the eastern and western blocks of the NCC.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107079"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925298","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107084
Lanfang He , Ping Shen , Liang Li , Sihao Wang , Xiaochi Liu , Rujun Chen , Kezhang Qin
The Koktokay (KOK) pegmatite field in the Altai Metallogenic Belt in Xinjiang is one of the largest beryllium mines in the world, as well as an important lithium, niobium, and tantalum deposit for China. The KOK No. 3 pegmatite ring is a very typical pegmatite ring among the world’s pegmatite systems. Great progress has been achieved in studies of the KOK rare metal ore deposit, but the metallogenic model and controlling structure of the deposit remain controversial. In addition, the prospects of mineral resources in the KOK district and vicinity are unclear. In this study, we propose a metallogenic model for understanding the rare metal mineral system of the KOK based on an metallogenic electromagnetism study using multiscale electromagnetic exploration and petro-electromagnetism analyses. The geo-electrical structure of the shallow part (to 1,000 m) and deep part (to 30 km) of the KOK rare metal mining district are explored through audio magnetotelluric sounding (AMT) and broadband frequency magnetotelluric sounding (BMT). The results of petro-electromagnetism analyses (complex impedance measurements) of rock samples show that the KOK pegmatite has low-resistivity properties. Resistivity contour maps at iso-depths of 200 m and 400 m from AMT exploration show that a high-resistivity granite mass surrounds the KOK pegmatite field. The pegmatite, along with the wall rocks, are characterized as medium to relatively low resistivity. The BMT results reveal low-resistivity bodies within a depth range of 15–30 km in the southern part of the KOK pegmatite field, which are speculated to reflect residual magma chambers based on the comprehensive interpretation from geophysical, geochemical and geological analysis. The BMT results also indicate resistivity differences between the pathway from the speculated ancient magma chambers to the terminal mineral deposits and surrounding rocks. The source of this system is speculated as a magma chamber, which features low resistivity and lies in the lower crust of the south of the No. 3 pegmatite deposit. Geochemical analysis results indicate that the rare metal pegmatite has experienced highly differentiated evolution. Based on a comprehensive understanding of the geophysical observations and geochemical constraints, we conclude that the mineral system of the rare metal pegmatite at the KOK is controlled by a magmatic system. The KOK No. 3 pegmatite deposit lies in the north of the pegmatite field. We suggest that the south of the KOK pegmatite field also has favorable resource potential.
{"title":"Metallogenic electromagnetism study reveals the pegmatite rare metal mineral system in Koktokay, Altai, Western China","authors":"Lanfang He , Ping Shen , Liang Li , Sihao Wang , Xiaochi Liu , Rujun Chen , Kezhang Qin","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107084","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107084","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Koktokay (KOK) pegmatite field in the Altai Metallogenic Belt in Xinjiang is one of the largest beryllium mines in the world, as well as an important lithium, niobium, and tantalum deposit for China. The KOK No. 3 pegmatite ring is a very typical pegmatite ring among the world’s pegmatite systems. Great progress has been achieved in studies of the KOK rare metal ore deposit, but the metallogenic model and controlling structure of the deposit remain controversial. In addition, the prospects of mineral resources in the KOK district and vicinity are unclear. In this study, we propose a metallogenic model for understanding the rare metal mineral system of the KOK based on an metallogenic electromagnetism study using multiscale electromagnetic exploration and petro-electromagnetism analyses. The geo-electrical structure of the shallow part (to 1,000 m) and deep part (to 30 km) of the KOK rare metal mining district are explored through audio magnetotelluric sounding (AMT) and broadband frequency magnetotelluric sounding (BMT). The results of petro-electromagnetism analyses (complex impedance measurements) of rock samples show that the KOK pegmatite has low-resistivity properties. Resistivity contour maps at <em>iso</em>-depths of 200 m and 400 m from AMT exploration show that a high-resistivity granite mass surrounds the KOK pegmatite field. The pegmatite, along with the wall rocks, are characterized as medium to relatively low resistivity. The BMT results reveal low-resistivity bodies within a depth range of 15–30 km in the southern part of the KOK pegmatite field, which are speculated to reflect residual magma chambers based on the comprehensive interpretation from geophysical, geochemical and geological analysis. The BMT results also indicate resistivity differences between the pathway from the speculated ancient magma chambers to the terminal mineral deposits and surrounding rocks. The source of this system is speculated as a magma chamber, which features low resistivity and lies in the lower crust of the south of the No. 3 pegmatite deposit. Geochemical analysis results indicate that the rare metal pegmatite has experienced highly differentiated evolution. Based on a comprehensive understanding of the geophysical observations and geochemical constraints, we conclude that the mineral system of the rare metal pegmatite at the KOK is controlled by a magmatic system. The KOK No. 3 pegmatite deposit lies in the north of the pegmatite field. We suggest that the south of the KOK pegmatite field also has favorable resource potential.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107084"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925300","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107061
Yu-Fang Zhong , Yuan-Yuan Liu , Chang-Qian Ma , Kai-Pei Lu , Lian-Xun Wang
Large volumes of Late Mesozoic granites are exposed in South China, associated with extensive polymetallic (W, Sn, U, Ni, Ta, Li, REE) mineralization. However, the genetic relationships between barren granitoids and variously mineralized granitoids within a composite pluton require further research. Additionally, in a certain mining district, the genetic relationships among adjacent, contemporaneous plutons are poorly constrained. Some of these plutons are barren, while others host tungsten deposits, and still others contain Nb-Ta deposits. In this study, we focus on three Late Jurassic granite plutons in the Yichun mining district, and conduct a comprehensive investigation of these plutons. This includes LA-ICP-MS zircon and monazite U-Pb dating, as well as analyses of zircon Hf isotopes and trace elements, whole-rock geochemistry, and Nd isotopes on representative granite samples. Based on our new data and previously published studies, and from the insights of the mush model and magma plumbing systems, we propose the following key inferences: (1) Multiple emplacements of magma batches drove extensive in-situ differentiation within a magma reservoir. (2) Highly fractionated granites and main-phase granitoids within a composite pluton may have been derived from different magma reservoirs; more evolved magmas likely originated from a deeper magma reservoir. (3) The degree of magmatic evolution serves as a crucial factor governing the diversity of W and Ta-Nb mineralization within rare-metal granites. (4) In South China, extremely fractionated granitoids can serve as important indicators for tungsten (W) deposit exploration, and the Yichun district remains prospective for large-scale tungsten deposits at depth. This study provides critical insights into the evolution of granitic magmas and their associated metallogenic processes, thus holding important implications for regional mineralization exploration.
{"title":"Unraveling the petrogenetic links: Late Jurassic Barren Granites, W-bearing granites, and Nb-Ta-Li- mineralized granites in Yichun Mining District, South China","authors":"Yu-Fang Zhong , Yuan-Yuan Liu , Chang-Qian Ma , Kai-Pei Lu , Lian-Xun Wang","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107061","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107061","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Large volumes of Late Mesozoic granites are exposed in South China, associated with extensive polymetallic (W, Sn, U, Ni, Ta, Li, REE) mineralization. However, the genetic relationships between barren granitoids and variously mineralized granitoids within a composite pluton require further research. Additionally, in a certain mining district, the genetic relationships among adjacent, contemporaneous plutons are poorly constrained. Some of these plutons are barren, while others host tungsten deposits, and still others contain Nb-Ta deposits. In this study, we focus on three Late Jurassic granite plutons in the Yichun mining district, and conduct a comprehensive investigation of these plutons. This includes LA-ICP-MS zircon and monazite U-Pb dating, as well as analyses of zircon Hf isotopes and trace elements, whole-rock geochemistry, and Nd isotopes on representative granite samples. Based on our new data and previously published studies, and from the insights of the mush model and magma plumbing systems, we propose the following key inferences: (1) Multiple emplacements of magma batches drove extensive in-situ differentiation within a magma reservoir. (2) Highly fractionated granites and main-phase granitoids within a composite pluton may have been derived from different magma reservoirs; more evolved magmas likely originated from a deeper magma reservoir. (3) The degree of magmatic evolution serves as a crucial factor governing the diversity of W and Ta-Nb mineralization within rare-metal granites. (4) In South China, extremely fractionated granitoids can serve as important indicators for tungsten (W) deposit exploration, and the Yichun district remains prospective for large-scale tungsten deposits at depth. This study provides critical insights into the evolution of granitic magmas and their associated metallogenic processes, thus holding important implications for regional mineralization exploration.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107061"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925301","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107100
HuiHui Rao , JiaXin Luo , MaoYong He , YuanYuan Cheng , Hong Chang , Zhengyan Li , Jin Wen , Yinggao Liu , Jinrui Chen
<div><div>Potash, a strategic mineral resource that impacts the development of global agriculture and industry, has received considerable attention regarding its worldwide distribution, genesis, and exploration prospects. Influenced by various tectonic events and climatic changes throughout geological history, the distribution of potash resources exhibits significant spatio-temporal characteristics. Potash deposits have been documented in a variety of basin types globally, including stable cratonic basins, continental rift systems, foreland basins, intermontane depressions, and other tectonic settings. The metallogenic epochs range from the Cambrian of the Paleozoic to the Quaternary of the Cenozoic, with potash formation primarily occurring in the Paleozoic, followed by the Mesozoic, and the least quantity formed in the Cenozoic. Based on the unique metallogenic environments and occurrence characteristics of these mineral deposits, potash deposits can be classified into three main types: marine, continental, and marine-continental transitional facies. Among them, marine potash deposits are large in scale and mainly formed in stable cratonic basins. Continental potash deposits, on the other hand, are smaller in scale and mostly distributed in intermountain depression basins within continents, and primarily characterized by salt lake potash. Marine-continental transitional potash deposits exhibit both marine and continental features, are mostly distributed in continental rifts or marine-continental transitional zones, and have complex metallogenic processes. Previous studies indicate that potash deposit formation results from the interplay of multiple ore-controlling factors, including tectonics, paleoclimate conditions, material sources, paleogeographic environment, and marine geochemistry. The metallogenic regularity is primarily determined by the interaction of the three dynamic systems of “tectonics-climate--material source” in specific spatio-temporal context. As a result, potash deposits across different global regions and geological periods generally exhibit significant diversity in metallogenic patterns, reflecting their unique mineralization environments and evolutionary histories of tectonic processes. This heterogeneity in genetic mechanisms means that a single metallogenic model cannot universally explain the formation of all global potash deposits. Consequently, worldwide potash exploration faces substantial challenges. Moreover, the specificity of these mineralization mechanisms further exacerbates the highly uneven distribution of global potash resources, creating severe challenges for countries with urgent food security needs in achieving sustainable potash supply. Consequently, building upon existing resource development, it is necessary to systematically enhance potash exploration potential and ensure sustainable supply capacity through deep potash exploration, AI-powered predictions, rational utilization of unexploited potassium
{"title":"Spatio-temporal distribution patterns, genesis, metallogenic regularity, and prospects of global potash resources","authors":"HuiHui Rao , JiaXin Luo , MaoYong He , YuanYuan Cheng , Hong Chang , Zhengyan Li , Jin Wen , Yinggao Liu , Jinrui Chen","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107100","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107100","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Potash, a strategic mineral resource that impacts the development of global agriculture and industry, has received considerable attention regarding its worldwide distribution, genesis, and exploration prospects. Influenced by various tectonic events and climatic changes throughout geological history, the distribution of potash resources exhibits significant spatio-temporal characteristics. Potash deposits have been documented in a variety of basin types globally, including stable cratonic basins, continental rift systems, foreland basins, intermontane depressions, and other tectonic settings. The metallogenic epochs range from the Cambrian of the Paleozoic to the Quaternary of the Cenozoic, with potash formation primarily occurring in the Paleozoic, followed by the Mesozoic, and the least quantity formed in the Cenozoic. Based on the unique metallogenic environments and occurrence characteristics of these mineral deposits, potash deposits can be classified into three main types: marine, continental, and marine-continental transitional facies. Among them, marine potash deposits are large in scale and mainly formed in stable cratonic basins. Continental potash deposits, on the other hand, are smaller in scale and mostly distributed in intermountain depression basins within continents, and primarily characterized by salt lake potash. Marine-continental transitional potash deposits exhibit both marine and continental features, are mostly distributed in continental rifts or marine-continental transitional zones, and have complex metallogenic processes. Previous studies indicate that potash deposit formation results from the interplay of multiple ore-controlling factors, including tectonics, paleoclimate conditions, material sources, paleogeographic environment, and marine geochemistry. The metallogenic regularity is primarily determined by the interaction of the three dynamic systems of “tectonics-climate--material source” in specific spatio-temporal context. As a result, potash deposits across different global regions and geological periods generally exhibit significant diversity in metallogenic patterns, reflecting their unique mineralization environments and evolutionary histories of tectonic processes. This heterogeneity in genetic mechanisms means that a single metallogenic model cannot universally explain the formation of all global potash deposits. Consequently, worldwide potash exploration faces substantial challenges. Moreover, the specificity of these mineralization mechanisms further exacerbates the highly uneven distribution of global potash resources, creating severe challenges for countries with urgent food security needs in achieving sustainable potash supply. Consequently, building upon existing resource development, it is necessary to systematically enhance potash exploration potential and ensure sustainable supply capacity through deep potash exploration, AI-powered predictions, rational utilization of unexploited potassium","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107100"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925372","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107089
Xiaodan Liu , Guanglai Li , Xiaofei Hao , Shicheng Wang , Jialin Zhong , Yongle Yang , Ji Zhang , Chao Huang
The Baituyingzi tungsten-polymetallic deposit, located on the northern margin of the North China Craton, is the region's only large-scale tungsten deposit. This deposit features two distinct mineralization types: porphyry-style molybdenum (Mo) mineralization and tungsten (W) mineralization within silicified fracture zones. This study focuses on the tungsten mineralization within silicified fracture zones in which wolframite is the primary ore mineral, with subordinate scheelite. Wolframite crystallized during the oxide stage exhibited Fe/Mn molar ratios of 0.04–0.44. U–Pb dating of wolframite yielded a low-intercept Tera-Wasserburg age of 222.2 ± 4.1 Ma. This indicates that the deposit is one of the few large-scale tungsten deposits formed during the Indosinian period in China. The scheelite in the deposit can be classified into four distinct generations, each exhibiting unique geochemical characteristics. Sch-I is notably enriched in Nb and Na but depleted in Sr and Mo. It displays high total rare earth element (REE) contents with negligible light-to-heavy REE fractionation (LREE/HREE = 0.92–1.15) and a weak negative Eu anomaly (δEu = 0.67–0.88). With the evolution of fluids, the Nb and Na contents Sch-II and Sch-III gradually decrease, while Sr and Mo contents show an overall significant increase. The total REE content decreases to 44.19 ppm–296.24 ppm (Sch-II) and 12.29 ppm–115.02 ppm (Sch-III), exhibiting a positive Eu anomaly. In Sch-Ⅳ, the REE content further decreases, Sr content also declines, while Mo content increases significantly (Mo/W ratio: 0.48–1.46), with some phases transitioning to powellite (W). During this stage, Mo extensively substitutes for W and incorporates into the scheelite structure.
A comprehensive geochemical and geochronological data analysis indicates that the Baituyingzi W polymetallic deposit synchronized with the Indosinian orogeny (222.2 ± 4.1 Ma) following the final closure of the Paleo-Asian Ocean along the NCC-Siberia collision zone. Mineralisation occurred during post-collisional extensional tectonics, with ore-forming fluids evolving from reduced to oxidized conditions during the main metallogenic stage. Late-stage meteoric fluids remobilised Mo from earlier porphyry mineralisation, triggering scheelite dissolution-reprecipitation and subsequent tungstite–molybdenite formation.
{"title":"Metallogenic age and fluid evolution of the Baituyingzi W-polymetallic deposit, northern margin of North China Craton: constraints from wolframite U–Pb chronology and scheelite geochemistry","authors":"Xiaodan Liu , Guanglai Li , Xiaofei Hao , Shicheng Wang , Jialin Zhong , Yongle Yang , Ji Zhang , Chao Huang","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107089","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107089","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Baituyingzi tungsten-polymetallic deposit, located on the northern margin of the North China Craton, is the region's only large-scale tungsten deposit. This deposit features two distinct mineralization types: porphyry-style molybdenum (Mo) mineralization and tungsten (W) mineralization within silicified fracture zones. This study focuses on the tungsten mineralization within silicified fracture zones in which wolframite is the primary ore mineral, with subordinate scheelite. Wolframite crystallized during the oxide stage exhibited Fe/Mn molar ratios of 0.04–0.44. U–Pb dating of wolframite yielded a low-intercept Tera-Wasserburg age of 222.2 ± 4.1 Ma. This indicates that the deposit is one of the few large-scale tungsten deposits formed during the Indosinian period in China. The scheelite in the deposit can be classified into four distinct generations, each exhibiting unique geochemical characteristics. Sch-I is notably enriched in Nb and Na but depleted in Sr and Mo. It displays high total rare earth element (REE) contents with negligible light-to-heavy REE fractionation (LREE/HREE = 0.92–1.15) and a weak negative Eu anomaly (δEu = 0.67–0.88). With the evolution of fluids, the Nb and Na contents Sch-II and Sch-III gradually decrease, while Sr and Mo contents show an overall significant increase. The total REE content decreases to 44.19 ppm–296.24 ppm (Sch-II) and 12.29 ppm–115.02 ppm (Sch-III), exhibiting a positive Eu anomaly. In Sch-Ⅳ, the REE content further decreases, Sr content also declines, while Mo content increases significantly (Mo/W ratio: 0.48–1.46), with some phases transitioning to powellite (W). During this stage, Mo extensively substitutes for W and incorporates into the scheelite structure.</div><div>A comprehensive geochemical and geochronological data analysis indicates that the Baituyingzi W polymetallic deposit synchronized with the Indosinian orogeny (222.2 ± 4.1 Ma) following the final closure of the Paleo-Asian Ocean along the NCC-Siberia collision zone. Mineralisation occurred during post-collisional extensional tectonics, with ore-forming fluids evolving from reduced to oxidized conditions during the main metallogenic stage. Late-stage meteoric fluids remobilised Mo from earlier porphyry mineralisation, triggering scheelite dissolution-reprecipitation and subsequent tungstite–molybdenite formation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107089"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925798","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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