Fast Variscan anticlockwise P-T-t path in the Eastern Alps: evidence from metasedimentary rocks and metamorphic veins of the Silvretta thrust sheet

Abstract

In the South-Western part of the Silvretta thrust sheet (Pischa area), metasedimentary rocks and metaso-matie veins show evidence of a Variscan anticlockwise P-T-t path, which differs from previously proposed P-T-t paths in the pre-Mesozoic basements of the Alps. The prograde path corresponds to a HT-LP metamorphism illustrated by sillimanite blastesis after andalusite. Maximum temperature (ca. 550 °C) is constrained by the stability of staurolite and muscovite. After temperature climax, pressure increased quasi-isothermally to P max of ca. 0.5–0.6 GPa. P max is limited by phase relations and fluid inclusion data. The prograde path is characterized by the development of an S2 schistosity and mineral lineation L2 oriented E-W, and by the formation of a first generation of quartz-andalusite veins (type 2 quartz veins) parallel to the S2. The decompression path ends in the stability field of andalusite and is characterized by extensional structures such as symmetric and asymmetric foliation boudinage showing a stretching direction still oriented E-W. The extensional structures also result in the formation of quartz-andalusite-muscovite aggregates. Shear bands affecting both metapelites and type 1 and 2 quartz veins indicate a top to the W-SW sense of shear. The last generation of quartz-andalusite veins (type 3) strikes N-S and vertically cross cuts the foliation. Phase relations suggest that the Silvretta thrust sheet underwent an anticlockwise P-T path, probably a result of magmatism and/or nappe emplacement. The prograde part of this P-T loop developed between 320 and 300 Ma, and cooling already occurred at ca. 300 Ma. Therefore, the Variscan cycle was fast in this part of the Alps.