OUTLINE OF METALLOGENY OF THE POLISH CARPATHIANS – ORE DEPOSIT MODELS AND THE POSSIBILITY OF DISCOVERY HIDDEN ORE DEPOSITS

Abstract

There are numerous manifestations of ore mineralization in the Polish part of the Carpathians. In the past there were episodes of mining activity too. Iron ores were mined in Tatra Mountains and Outer Carpathians) as well as a small scale exploitation of polymetallic lodes was undertaken (Tatra, Pieniny). Currently there is a lack documented deposits of metallic ores in this area. Former deposits were of small size, in addition, often significantly exhausted and did not meet current quality requirements. The last exploration works for ore deposits were carried out in the twentieth century, especially in the period after World War II. However, but they have not led to discovery of new deposits. The increasing demand for metals and the development of technologies allowing the use of ore with low levels of metals and profitable exploitation of small “hidden” deposits gives rise to reconsider the possibility of occurrence of ore deposits in the Carpathians. This paper focuses on two major topics. The first one is a discussion and analysis of available source materials and data on the old deposits and identified occurrences of ore mineralization. An attempt their interpretation in relation to the contemporary models of deposits was made. The current models geotectonic construction of the Carpathians and their development, was taken into account. The second topic, based on the results presented analyzes and thoughts, focuses to select some areas, which are prospective for the occurrence of ore deposits, especially deposits located at greater depths than previously sought. In these areas (the Bystre thrust, the area from Krynica to Wysowa as well as the zone with andesite occurrences in the Pieniny Klippen Belt) it is recommended to perform exploration, both in terms of their deep geological conditions as well as some geochemical surveys, using modern research methods.