Abstract
Abstract Geochemical dispersion patterns of major elements in altered granitic wall rocks of two Highland Valley porphyry copper deposits are documented. K2O and K2O/Na2O ratios consistently increase from the outer margins of the deposits to the inner zones of intense hydrothermal alteration and metallization. In contrast, concentrations of Na2O, CaO, MgO and total Fe (as Fe2O3) decrease inward. These geochemical variations are explained in relation to prevalent alteration assemblage and primary lithology. It is concluded that the use of major element halos is more advantageous and less time-consuming than quantitative mineralogical techniques in delineating epigenetic wall-rock anomalies and proximity to mineralization.
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