Metallogenic provinces of the Cordillera of western North and South America

Abstract

It is now possible to use newly available information to extend the study of metallogenic provinces throughout the Cordillera of western North and South America, encompassing approximately one-half of the “circle of fire” surrounding the Pacific Ocean. This study confirms the concept that a theory of metallogenesis requires a primitive sub-crustal heterogeneity of metals. The study further indicates that, in this area, a subduction process related to a plate tectonic hypothesis is incompatible with observed relationships of tectonism, magmatism, and metallogenesis. Attempts to maintain this hypothesis undoubtedly hinder the development of metallogenic theory.