Tectonic systems and the deposition of iron-formation

Abstract

The iron-formation group of chemically precipitated cherty iron-rich sediments ranges in age from Early Precambrian to Recent and is composed of a variety of lithological facies. Iron-formations are classified as Lake Superior and Algoma types to emphasize the contrasting conditions in the spectrum of sedimentary-tectonic environments in which they formed. Thick stratigraphic units of Lake Superior type iron-formation, which form the most extensive iron ranges of the world, are part of sedimentary-tectonic systems that developed along the margins of cratons or continental platforms and were deposited over extended periods of time under relatively stable tectonic conditions. The Algoma type iron-formations were deposited with volcanic rocks and greywacke in various tectonic-volcanic systems, formed under more dynamic tectonic conditions, but are otherwise comparable to present day spreading ridges on the ocean floor. The thick sequences of Lake Superior type iron-formation deposited between 2.7 and 2.0 Ga form part of major sedimentary-tectonic systems that extended along the margins of continents. Direct biogenic factors and the composition of the atmosphere probably had only limited influence on the precipitation of these chemical sediments.