Genetic modeling and prospecting criteria: An example of syngenetic vs. epigenetic ore formation

The paper presents the importance of mineral deposit modeling, based on the elucidation of key elements of its origin, for the development of reliable criteria for prospecting of new deposits and orebodies of this type. On the example of the Kremikovtsi carbonate-hosted IF-barite-polymetallic deposit, it is shown that the adoption of a well-grounded syngenetic or epigenetic concept for its origin is crucial for successful prospecting activity. Based on the developed model for a sedimentary-exhalative (SEDEX) origin of the deposit (i.e. syngenetic to the carbonate host), the key factors controlling ore formation are specified, and an optimal strategy for future prospecting in the region is proposed.