Apatite–Albite Metasomatites (Aceites) of the Eastern Aldan–Stanovoy Shield

Abstract

This paper summarizes the findings of research on Riphean ore-bearing apatite–albite metasomatites (aceites) identified in metamorphic, volcanic and intrusive rocks in the eastern Aldan–Stanovoy Shield. The characteristic features of lithological and structural control of aceites, their mineral and petrochemical composition, geochemical associations, ontogeny, metasomatic zoning, and geochemical specialization are outlined. Aceites in metamorphic rocks are assigned to the albite–chlorite–apatite facies and in igneous rocks to the albite–apatite facies. Apatite–albite metasomatites host mineralization of two types: uranium (in aceites after metamorphic rocks) and uranium–rare earth element–rare metal (in aceites after volcanic and intrusive rocks).