Geology and characteristics of petrographic rocks in the region of Trepça, Kosovo

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of this paper is to accomplish a thorough identification of rock types occurring within the Mitrovica region by describing in detail all encountered varieties. The authors aim to determine the discontinuity or continuity of all inter-formational boundaries, crucial for accurate delineation on the ground and complete reflection on a 1:25000 scale map. Additionally, the objective is to identify the nature of contact between rock types and provide a detailed their description. Methods. Field exploration in the Mitrovica region was conducted for several months. Rock identification involved detailed sampling and petrographic analysis, including thin section preparation of magmatic rocks. The method included sample preparation, polarized light source interactions with minerals and observation of optical properties. Key properties observed are birefringence, interference colors, extinction angles, identification and analysis. Findings. Based on the study of stratigraphic units and geological descriptions of mineral outcrop areas, various types of rocks through petrographic microscope preparation, as well as chemical and geochemical analyses, have been differentiated. The Mitrovica area encompasses the following lithostratigraphic units: harzburgite, gabbro, diabase, metasandstone, sandstone, quartzite and grainstone with calcium (Aeolisaccus sp.; Bioclastic grainstone with dacycladal algae and small milliolides; Salpin-goporella sp.). Originality. The originality of the research lies in employing an optical microscope for the precise identification of rocks. Through the re-search carried out in the study area, we obtained a comprehensive petrographic description of mineral composition, texture, and mineralization, facilitating the assessment of the area exploitation potential. Practical implications. The petrographic exploration yielded the conclusion that the Pb-Zn mineralization is present in the study area, which is a sig-nificant finding for the advancement of the mining sector and the local community, provided that environmental preservation measures are upheld and responsible methods of area exploitation are implemented.