Metallogenetic Mn-model of the Rhyacian-aged Buritirama Formation, Carajás domain (Amazon Craton)

Abstract

The Mn-bearing Buritirama Formation is composed of clastic and chemical metasedimentary rocks representing a Rhyacian platformal basin (ca. 2.18–2.06 Ga) that limits the northern border of the Archean-Paleoproterozoic Carajás domain with the Paleoproterozoic Bacajá domain in the southern Amazon Craton, northern Brazil. The Buritirama Formation is divided into three main stratigraphic units. The Lower and Upper units consist of a basal quartzite followed by carbonate–silicate rocks (marls), dolomitic marbles (dolostone) and minor biotite schist while the Intermediate Unit consists of Mn-carbonate rocks topped by a supergene Mn-oxide deposit (Cenozoic age). These rocks were deformed and metamorphosed during the Transamazonian event (ca. 2.06 Ga).Geochemical data from dolomitic marbles (Lower Unit) exhibit negative Ce anomalies, high Y/Ho ratios (ca. 48) and seawater-like REE + Y patterns that reinforce an open platform setting for the Buritirama basin. Positive δ13C values (+3.2‰ to +5.0‰ V-PDB) for dolomitic marbles are considered to be an expression of the Lomagundi Carbon Isotopic Excursion. The metallogenesis of Mn-carbonate rocks is evaluated based on redox-sensitive trace elements (e.g. Zn and Ni), PAAS-normalized REE + Y patterns and δ13C values (−2.56‰ to +0.15‰ V-PDB) and point out to a classical multi-stage redox-controlled Mn-model involving: i) a primary hydrothermal fluid source related to ocean vents and/or normal faults; ii) microbially-mediated reduction of Mn-oxides particles at the ocean bottom; and iii) reactions between Mn2+ and CO32− (organic matter and seawater related), giving rise to diagenetic Mn-carbonates. The Rhyacian age, Mn deposits, and presence of Lomagundi-like δ13C allows to correlate the Buritirama Formation with the Águas Claras Formation within the Carajás domain further south, thus establishing an important metalliferous event that was up to now largely overlooked within the southern Amazon Craton.