A step metallogenetic model for gold deposits in the northwestern Shandong Peninsula, China

Abstract

Based on our study of the nature and variation of mineralization-controlling faults in their deep extension and the spatial distribution of gold orebodies in the northwestern Shandong Peninsula (NSP), here we propose that the gold deposits in the Jiaojia gold belt are controlled by listric faults and the gold deposits in the NSP are controlled by extensional fault system. We also suggest that there is a multiple mineralization space in the deep part of the NSP gold belt. As steps or benches occur along the deep extention of the listric fault where its dipping angle changes from steep to gentle, a number of gold deposits are correspondingly distributed as a steplike pattern, which is named as a step metallogenetic model for gold deposits in the NSP. The gold deposits in Shandong Peninsula were formed in the Cretaceous when the crust in the region experienced extention and thinning following the strong collision between North China Plate and Yangtze Plate during the Triassic. Crust anataxis, fluid remobilization, and extention-detachement of the crust are the leading factors for the gold mineralization.