Alkali Granite Research Articles

Bands of Zircon, Allanite and Magnetite in Paleozoic Alkali Granite in the Chungju Unit, South Korea, and Origin of REE Mineralizations

High-grade Zr–Nb–Y–rare earth element (REE) mineralization occurs as zircon–allanite–magnetite bands in layered Paleozoic alkali rocks which intruded the Gyemyeongsan Formation of the Chungju unit, South Korea. The mineralization period and genesis have been controversial. We investigated the petrological and mineralogical properties of the newly discovered zircon–allanite–magnetite bands and the geochronological properties of zircon within the bands in the alkali granite. We analyzed the zircon with laser ablation multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-MC-ICP-MS). The repeated quartz–feldspar-rich layers in the alkali granite show grain-sized grading textures and equilibrium igneous textures. Magnetite and allanite grains in these layers varied in size and exhibited isolated, aggregated, and coalesced textures. In addition, the settling texture of zircon grains onto the other minerals was observed. These observations could reasonably be explained by the process of gravitational accumulation during the solidification of magma. The 206Pb/238U ages obtained from zircon from the zircon–allanite–magnetite-rich layer and the alkali aplite were 331.1 ± 1.5 Ma and 334.5 ± 8.9 Ma, respectively. Therefore, we suggest that the Zr–Y–Nb–REE mineralization developed in the alkali rocks and the Gyemyeongsan Formation in the Chungju unit were formed by fractional crystallization of alkali magma and hydrothermal fluids which evolved from alkali magma fractional crystallization, respectively. The correlation between alkaline granite and REE mineralization found in this study could be used as a tool for REE exploration in other regions where the permeable geological unit is intruded by the alkali granite.

Linking shock textures revealed by BSE, CL, and EBSD with U‐Pb data (LA‐ICP‐MS and SIMS) from zircon from the Araguainha impact structure, Brazil

AbstractA silicious impact melt rock from polymict impact breccia of the northern part of the alkali granite core of the Araguainha impact structure, central Brazil, has been investigated. The melt rock is thought to represent a large mass of impact‐generated melt in suevite. In particular, a diverse population of zircon grains, with different impact‐induced microstructures, has been analyzed for U‐Pb isotopic systematics. Backscattered electron and cathodoluminescence images reveal heterogeneous intragrain domains with vesicular, granular, vesicular plus granular, and vesicular plus (presumably) baddeleyite textures, among others. The small likely baddeleyite inclusions are not only preferentially located along grain margins but also occur locally within grain interiors. LA‐ICP‐MS U‐Pb data from different domains yield lower intercept ages of 220, 240, and 260 Ma, a result difficult to reconcile with the previous “best age” estimate for the impact event at 254.7 ± 2.7 Ma. SIMS U‐Pb data, too, show a relatively large range of ages from 245 to 262 Ma. A subset of granular grains that yielded concordant SIMS ages were analyzed for crystallographic orientation by EBSD. Orientation mapping shows that this population consists of approximately micrometer‐sized neoblasts that preserve systematic orientation evidence for the former presence of the high‐pressure polymorph reidite. In one partially granular grain (#36), the neoblasts occur in linear arrays that likely represent former reidite lamellae. Such grains are referred to as FRIGN zircon. The best estimate for the age of the Araguainha impact event from our data set from a previously not analyzed type of impact melt rock is based on concordant SIMS data from FRIGN zircon grains. This age is 251.5 ± 2.9 Ma (2σ, MSWD = 0.45, p = 0.50, n = 4 analyses on three grains), indistinguishable from previous estimates based on zircon and monazite from other impact melt lithologies at Araguainha. Our work provides a new example of how FRIGN zircon can be combined with in situ U‐Pb geochronology to extract an accurate age for an impact event.

Geochemistry, Zircon U–Pb Geochronology, and Lu–Hf Isotopes of the Chishan Alkaline Complex, Western Shandong, China

Mass alkaline magmatic activities in Western Shandong during the late Mesozoic controlled the mineralization processes of gold and rare earth element (REE) polymetallic deposits in the region. The Chishan alkaline complex is closely associated with the mineralization of the Chishan REE deposit, which, as the third largest light REE deposit in China following the Baiyenebo (Inner Mongolia) and Mianning (Sichuan) deposits, is considered a typical example of alkaline rock mineralization throughout the North China Craton. To determine how the Chishan alkaline complex and REE deposit interact with each other, a systematic study was conducted on the petrology, rock geochemistry, zircon U–Pb geochronology, Lu–Hf isotopes of the quartz syenite, and alkali granite contained in the Chishan alkaline complex. The results reveal that the deposits feature similar geochemical characteristics typical of an alkaline rock series—both are rich in alkali, high in potassium, metaluminous, and poor in Ti, Fe, Mg, and Mn. In terms of REEs, the deposits are strongly rich in light REEs but poor in heavy REEs, with weak negative Eu anomalies. In terms of trace elements, they are rich in large ion lithophile elements Ba, Sr, and Rb but poor in high field-strength elements Nb, Ta, and Hf. Zircon LA-ICP-MS U–Pb dating indicated that the quartz syenite and alkali granite formed in Early Cretaceous at 125.8 ± 1.2 Ma and 127.3 ± 1.0 Ma, respectively; their εHf(t) values are −22.67 to −13.19, with depleted model ages (TDM) ranging from 1296 Ma to 1675 Ma and crustal model ages (TDMC) of 2036–2617 Ma. The Chishan alkaline complex originated from partial of the EM I-type (enriched mantle I) lithospheric mantle with assimilation of ancient crustal materials. The complex is of the same origin as the REE deposit, and developed in an extensional setting that resulted from plate subduction and lithospheric thinning and upwelling in the eastern area of the North China Craton.

Mineralogical and geochemical constraints on the origin and evolution of albitites from Dmytrivka at the Oktiabrski complex, Southeast Ukraine

Albitites from Dmytrivka quarry form veins like bodies within fenitized alkali granites of the Oktiabrski complex. They are mainly composed of albite, and subordinately K-feldspar, zircon, aegirine, astrophyllite, pyrochlore and ilmenite. Albitites are characterized by high alkalies (Na2O + K2O) content coupled with low MgO, CaO, and SiO2 concentrations relative to host alkali granites. They show inversion of REE patterns (negative slopes for LREE and positive slopes for HREE), enrichment in HFSE (i.e. Zr, Nb, Ta), and strong Eu anomalies. The existence of rare composite of M-type and W-type REE tetrad effect in albitites indicates their complex genesis, i.e. formation during the coexistence of the melt with aqueous phase, later being superimposed by further alterations with hydrothermal solutions. The magmatic origin of albitites (evolved from highly differentiated A-type magma and emplaced at shallow depths) is documented by the presence of flow and snowball textures, zircon-aegirine glomerocrysts, no traces of replacement interfaces and reaction zones between K-feldspar and albite as well as no smooth, gradual changes in bulk-rock compositions between alkali granite, fenite vs albitite. On the contrary, the strong influence of pervasive, post-magmatic high-temperature (381–392 °C evidenced by CM geothermometer), and highly-oxidizing alkaline-bearing metasomatizing fluids on albitites is revealed by the occurrence of polygonal textures of albite laths, red CL luminescence of feldspars typical of fenitized rocks as well as crystallization of astrophyllite at the expense of arfvedsonite. Additionally, the presence of fluid-mineral interactions is evidenced by the development of secondary porosity and patchy zoning within zircon crystals coupled with the presence of blue (Dy3+-Tb3+-activated) and yellow (SiO4-Tb3+-activated) domains within them. All these textural, mineralogical and geochemical features observed in albitites from Dmytrivka suggest complex, magmatic-hydrothermal nature of the rocks.

Geochronological characterization of a transition zone between the Mozambique Belt and Unango-Marrupa Complex in SE Tanzania

We present geochronological and petrological data of orthogneisses, granitoids, and supracrustal rocks from SE Tanzania to characterize the transition zone between the Mesoproterozoic Unango-Marrupa Complex and the Neoproterozoic Mozambique Belt.Geochronological data (U-Pb zircon; LA-ICP-MS) indicate that the emplacement of orthogneisses (protolith) and granitoids in SE Tanzania occurred in Stenian, Cryogenian, and Ediacaran Periods. The magmatic emplacement ages are determined between 1056 ± 19 Ma and 554 ± 3.9 Ma. No older ages that that were determined.The Stenian orthogneisses (biotite granitic gneiss dates at 1056 ± 19 Ma and the associated migmatites, charnockites, amphibolite) represents Mesoproterozoic magmatic inliers in the Neoproterozoic rocks and the extension of the Unango-Marrupa Complex in SE Tanzania.Supracrustal rocks (marble and calc-silicate, garnet-biotite (hornblende) gneisses, quartzo-feldspathic gneisses, graphite schists, and quartzites) are interlayered with granitoids dated between 790 ± 8.7 Ma and 614 ± 8.1 Ma. The supracrustal rocks represent the upper part of the Mozambique Belt (Eastern Granulites/Cabo-Delgado nappes), and are possibly relics of continental shelf sedimentary deposits of the Mozambique Ocean.Upon assessing metamorphic ages (U-Pb zircon) in SE Tanzania we determined the Ediacaran metamorphic event dated between 606 ± 6.6 and 560 ± 37 Ma, which reworked the Stenian – Cryogenian crusts. The U-Pb zircon metamorphic ages are supported by a precise U-Th-Pb monazite metamorphic age at 589 ± 5 Ma obtained from a biotite garnet gneiss rock sample (amphibolite facies). The Ediacaran metamorphism in SE Tanzania was followed by the emplacement of biotite alkali granite at 554 ± 3.9 Ma, which probably marks crustal relaxation and extension after metamorphism as the result of collision or accretion.Magmatic rocks of the Mozambique Belt in SE Tanzania were emplaced during the East African Orogeny. Metamorphic reworking occurred during the final amalgamation of Gondwana between 600 and 500 Ma (Kuunga Orogenic Cycle) in line with tectono-magmatic history of the neighbouring Unango-Marrupa Complex, the Ubendian Belt, and the Irumide-Southern Irumide Belt.

Linking lithospheric thinning and magmatic evolution of late Jurassic to early cretaceous granitoids in the Jiaobei Terrane, southeastern North China Craton

Late Mesozoic granitoids are widely distributed in the Jiaobei Terrane, southeastern North China Craton (NCC) and crucial to understanding the processes and mechanisms of the lithospheric thinning. Here we present petro-geochemical, zircon UPb, LuHf and O isotopic constrains on three stages of granitoids, building an integrated model of lithospheric thinning from beginning through peak to waning stages. The early stage Linglong granite (166–158 Ma) is geochemically comparable to adakitic rocks with negative ɛNd(t) (−21.3 to −19.2), zircon ɛHf(t) (−26.8 to −18.7), and high zircon δ18O (6.7–8.3‰). It was originated from the subduction-thickened lower crust of the eastern NCC, with minor contribution from the subducted Yangtze Block, in an extensional setting, representing the beginning of lithospheric thinning. The middle stage Guojialing granodiorite (130–128 Ma), characterized by higher Sr/Y, Ba (898–5075 ppm), Sr (657–2256 ppm), ɛNd(t) (−19.1 to −11.5), zircon ɛHf(t) (−19.0 to −11.6) and δ18O (7.5–8.7‰) than the Linglong granite, addressing a fluid-metasomatized lithospheric mantle and extensive crust-mantle interaction in the Paleoproterozoic crustal source, is coeval with peak lithospheric thinning due to roll-back of the subducted Pacific plate. The late stage Aishan complex (118–115 Ma), which is composed of granodiorite, syenogranite, porphyritic quartz syenogranite, alkali granite and monzodiorite, exhibits slightly lower ɛNd(t) (−17.9 to −16.2), zircon ɛHf(t) (−21.4 to −15.3) and δ18O (6.6–7.9‰) than the Guojialing granodiorite. It was derived from the melting of Neoarchean- Paleoproterozoic crust with limited crust-mantle interaction and experienced crustal assimilation and fractional crystallization, indicating an extended process associated with the waning stage of lithospheric thinning. We document the magmatic responses to the lithospheric thinning at different stages which account for the genesis and evolution of the continental adakitic rocks and decratonization of the NCC.

Dating agpaitic rocks: A multi-system (U/Pb, Sm/Nd, Rb/Sr and 40Ar/39Ar) isotopic study of layered nepheline syenites from the Ilímaussaq complex, Greenland

The Ilímaussaq complex in southern Greenland is a shallow crustal composite intrusion comprising augite syenite, peralkaline granite and volumetrically dominant agpaitic nepheline syenites. Previous studies indicated a baddeleyite U-Pb age of 1160 ± 5 Ma for the augite syenite, the earliest intrusive unit of the complex. A similar crystallization age, within error, is inferred for the main sequence of agpaitic nepheline syenites. However, direct age determination of these units has been challenging because agpaitic rocks characteristically lack robust phases for in situ U-Pb dating (e.g. zircon/baddeleyite). An additional challenge is the pervasive subsolidus alteration, of which the isotopic effects are poorly constrained. Here we present new U-Pb, Sm-Nd and Rb-Sr isotopic data from whole rocks and mineral separates and a 40Ar/39Ar amphibole age of three co-genetic agpaitic nepheline syenites (kakortokite) from the lowermost exposed part of the complex. Using a multi-system geochronological approach for mineral separates and whole rocks, we explore the effects of late-stage alteration for each isotopic system. Assuming a closed-system evolution for the hydrothermal fluids (i.e. isotopically similar to the melts) and cooling within a relatively short time-frame (<0.8 Ma), we evaluate whether traditional mineral-whole rock isochron methods can provide useful age constraints for agpaitic rocks. We compare our data with those in the literature, corrected for the most recent decay constants.Single-crystal40Ar/39Ar step-heating experiments yield an amphibole plateau age of 1156.6 ± 1.4 Ma (MSWD = 1.5, external error ± 7.7 Ma), which we put forward as the most precise crystallization age for the agpaitic units to date. Kakortokite whole rock and mineral separates (amphibole, eudialyte, feldspar) yield a 206Pb-207Pb isochron age of 1159 ± 17 Ma (MSWD = 0.96) and a 235U-207Pb isochron age of 1168.5 ± 8.8 Ma (MSWD = 0.82). These are within error of the baddeleyite and zircon U-Pb ages from the augite syenite and alkali granite, as well as the new plateau age, if we take into account the external error of 7.7 Ma (i.e. accuracy). The 235U-207Pb age thus far provides the best non-single mineral age estimate for the agpaitic suite. Sm-Nd isotopes for the same whole rock and mineral separates yield an isochron age of 1156 ± 53 Ma (MSWD = 0.23) with εNdi = −0.8 ± 0.8, with significantly less scatter than Nd data for the rest of the complex. Rb-Sr isotopes yield errorchron ages that are either unrealistically young (3-point feldspar errorchron: 1106 ± 9 Ma, suggesting partial 87Sr loss), or old (WR, amphibole and eudialyte: 1237 ± 21 Ma, n = 9). The data demonstrate that the U-Pb and Sm-Nd systems are relatively insensitive to late-magmatic alteration and re-equilibration during cooling. In contrast, the Rb-Sr system records significant disturbance, reflecting the highly mobile nature of Rb and Sr in peralkaline systems. This warrants careful reconsideration of previously published Rb-Sr isochron data, and caution in interpreting Rb-Sr data for other peralkaline complexes. Initial isotopic compositions for the kakortokite support petrogenetic models that describe Ilímaussaq melt evolution towards strongly radiogenic Sr values at relatively constant εNdi, with progressive evolution from the early augite syenite to the most fractionated agpaitic melts. The melts experienced variable but minor degrees of lower crustal assimilation and preferential leaching of radiogenic Sr from the Proterozoic granitic country-rock.

Ulan-Tologoi Ta–Nb Deposit: the Role of Magmatism in the Formation of Rare Metal Mineralization

The role of magmatic differentiation is considered for the formation of the Ulan-Tologoi Ta–Nb–Zr deposit (northwestern Mongolia) related to the eponymous alkali granite pluton. Data are presented on the structure of the pluton, the composition of its rocks, and distribution of rare metal mineralization. The ores of the pluton include alkali granites with contents of ore elements exceeding the normative threshold for Ta (>100 ppm). The rare metal mineralization includes pyrochlore, columbite, zircon, bastnaesite, monazite, and thorite, which are typical of all alkali–salic rocks; however, their amount varies depending on the REE content of the rocks. The pluton was formed ~298 Ma ago under the influence of a mantle-crustal melt source.

Petrogenesis of the two phases of intrusive rocks at Chodarchay, NW Iran: using trace and rare earth elements

The Chodarchay area is located 50 km east of the city of Zanjan, within the Tarom-Hashtjin subzone, in the Western Alborz structural zone of NW Iran. Igneous rocks in the area include intrusive granitic (phases I and II), and volcanic rocks. Geochemical characteristics of the granitic rocks were determined using their trace and rare earth element (REE) compositions. The phase I intrusive rocks at Chodarchay include quartz monzonite and quartz syenite, while the phase II mainly consists of granite and alkali granite. These intrusive rocks have SiO2 contents ranging between 60.11 and 69.14 wt%, high K2O + Na2O (8.20 to 10.21 wt%) and K2O/Na2O ratios of 1.24 to 2.56. Petrological and geochemical studies indicate that the granitoids have high-K to shoshonitic affinity, they are metaluminous to mildly peraluminous and characterize as I-type granitoids. The investigated granitoids (phases I and II) have fractionated REE patterns characterized by enrichment in light REEs and varying degrees of depletion in heavy REEs. Large-ion lithophile element (LILE) enrichment, high-field strength element (HFSE) depletion, and distinct positive Pb anomaly in the primitive mantle-normalized trace element patterns of the rocks imply subduction-related arc magmatic signatures. It is suggested that the granites formed in a volcanic arc to post-collision setting from a garnet spinel lherzolite source.

REE mineralisation within the Ditrău Alkaline Complex, Romania: Interplay of magmatic and hydrothermal processes

The Ditrău Igneous Complex (north-east Romania) is a tilted Mesozoic alkaline intrusion (~19 km diameter), with enrichments in rare earth elements (REE), niobium, and molybdenum. It has the potential to contribute to a secure and sustainable European REE mining industry, ensuring supply security for these critical metals. The complex comprises a sequence of ultramafic rocks, alkali gabbros, diorites, syenites, nepheline syenites and alkali granites. These units have been significantly modified by sub-solidus interaction with late-stage magmatic fluids and are cut by secondary mafic dykes. The complex was subsequently cut by REE-mineralised carbonate-rich veins. Geochemical and petrological data, including apatite mineral chemistry, from the alkaline igneous rocks, dykes and veins within the Ditrău Complex, have been used to assess the interplay of magmatic processes with late-stage magmatic and hydrothermal fluids, and the effects of these processes on element remobilisation and concentration of critical metals. Only limited critical metal enrichment was achieved by magmatic processes; the REE were preferentially incorporated into titanite and apatite in ultramafic cumulates during primary crystallisation, and were not enriched in evolved magmas. A hydrothermal system developed within the Ditrău Complex magma chamber during the later stages of magmatic crystallisation, causing localised alteration of nepheline syenites by a sodium-rich fluid. Mafic dykes subsequently acted as conduits for late stage, buoyant potassic fluids, which leached REE and HFSE from the surrounding syenitic rocks. These fluids percolated up and accumulated in the roof zone, causing the breakdown of nepheline to K-rich pseudomorphs and the precipitation of hydrothermal minerals such as zircon and pyrochlore within veins. REE mineralisation within the Ditrău Complex is hosted in the latest hydrothermal phase, mineralised carbonate-rich veins, which cross-cut the complex. Monazite is the main REE-bearing phase, it crystallised from a late REE- and carbonate-rich fluid with pH controlled REE deposition.

New U-Pb-Hf zircon isotope data for the Paleoproterozoic Ubendian belt in the Chimala area, SW Tanzania

We present new U-Pb and Hf zircon isotope data on a suite of granitoids from a hitherto unstudied area of the Palaeoproterozoic Lupa terrane of the Ubendian belt in SW Tanzania. The major part of the area comprises a sequence of upper amphibolite grade paragneisses and migmatites. Subsequently, the field relations show a complex history of granitoid emplacement from early pre-tectonic strongly foliated diorite-tonalite-granodiorite orthogneiss to late tectonic, weakly deformed ellipsoidal granitoid plutons. These were followed by emplacement of undeformed K-feldspar rich porphyritic alkali granite. U-Pb zircon data on the granitoids show their emplacement ages span the period ∼1925 Ma to 1890 Ma and constrain the culmination of the Ubendian orogeny in the Lupa terrane to about 1900 Ma. The undeformed K-feldspar rich Chimala granite, previously considered to be unconformably overlain by the Buanji Group volcano-sedimentary rocks (recently shown to be ∼1675 Ma, not Neoproterozoic as originally thought) was dated at ∼1407 Ma showing that it must intrude the sedimentary rocks, although the age relationships are not exposed in the mapping area. This is the first record of early Irumide/Kibaran-aged post-tectonic granites in this part of East Africa. Hf isotope data from the zircons show that the granitoids have a long crustal pre-history stretching back to as far as ∼3.9 Ga, and showing that the Lupa terrane may form part of the “metacratonic” margin of an originally much more extensive Tanzania Craton.

Chemistry of quartz related to the Zinnwald/Cínovec Sn-W-Li greisen-type deposit, Eastern Erzgebirge, Germany

Magmatic and hydrothermal quartz populations related to the Late-Variscan Zinnwald/Cínovec Sn-W-Li greisen-type deposit in the Eastern Erzgebirge/Krušné Hory (German/Czech Republic) were studied in terms of trace element contents and growth structures visualized by cathodoluminescence. The sample suite represents different populations of hydrothermal greisen quartz and magmatic quartz of the granitic host collected at a 600-m long, lateral section crosscutting the northern part of the deposit at the 750-m level.The studied quartz populations are characterized by generally low concentrations and low variation of Al and Ti indicating relatively constant crystallization conditions (temperature, pressure and fluid chemistry) during ore precipitation. Magmatic and hydrothermal quartz are distinguished by their Al, Ti, Li and Ge concentrations and ratios. Magmatic quartz has commonly higher Al (>100 ppm) and Ti (>3 ppm) compared to hydrothermal quartz. The Ge/Al ratio in quartz increases systematically from high to low formation temperatures (664 to ~400 °C = temperature range including published data and our estimates) whereas Ti decreases. The Zinnwald albite granite (mineralization host), an albite-rich alkali granite, and massive quartz-zinnwaldite greisen contain both magmatic and hydrothermal quartz populations which are distinguishable by their Ge/Al weight ratio: magmatic quartz has a Ge/Al ratio of <0.008 whereas hydrothermal quartz a ratio of >0.008.Hydrothermal vein quartz related to the Sn-W mineralization (Flöze = flat veins and Morgengänge = steep veins) does not show systematic trace element variations along the sampling profile indicating that no significant chemical gradients (in lateral direction) in the ore forming fluid existed. The uptake of Li in the quartz lattice is limited by the incorporated Al although the Zinnwald/Cínovec magmatic-hydrothermal system was strongly enriched in Li. The calculated crystallization temperatures of quartz of the Sn-W mineralization applying the TitaniQ thermobarometer reveal crystallization temperatures ranging from 575 ± 48 °C (albite granite), 612 ± 12 °C (stockscheider), 610 ± 23 (massive greisen), 536 ± 77 °C (flat veins), to 516 ± 58 °C (steep veins) confirming in general early estimations based on fluid and melt inclusion studies. In economic terms, the hydrothermal quartz (flat and steep veins) with an average total trace element content of 128 ± 56 ppm has intermediate chemical quality and can serve as a by-product if colour sorting and other processing steps are applied. Rock-forming quartz of albite granite and massive greisen with an average total trace element content of 233 ± 127 ppm has medium quality and the disadvantage that quartz contains a high amount of contaminating mineral inclusion, which will be challenging to remove by processing.

Zircon U-Pb Ages and Sr-Nd-Hf Isotopic Characteristics of the Huichizi Granitic Complex in the North Qinling Orogenic Belt and Their Geological Significance

The Huichizi granite complex is the largest Paleozoic I-type intrusion located in the North Qinling orogenic belt (NQB). In this study, we present systematic geochemical element data, zircon U-Pb ages, Lu-Hf isotopic data, and Sr-Nd isotopic data for the Huichizi granites. In terms of mineral and chemical compositions, these granites are biotite monzonitic and alkali-feldspar granites, both of which are characterized by high TiO2 and total alkali contents and low MgO, TiO2, and TFeO contents. These granites are weakly peraluminous (A/CNK values are 1–1.06 for biotite monzonitic granites and 1.04–1.09 for alkali-feldspar granites) and possess the geochemical characteristics of adakitic rocks, e.g., high Sr contents (319 ppm–633 ppm), Sr/Y ratios (18.5–174), and (La/Yb)N ratios (17.6–57) and low MgO (0.04 wt.%–0.83 wt.%), Y (3.0 ppm–17.2 ppm), and heavy rare-earth element (HREE) contents. This indicates that these rocks were most likely derived from the partial melting of a thickened lower crust. In situ zircon U-Pb dating of these granites yields Early Caledonian ages (437 Ma for biotite monzonitic granites and 424 Ma for alkali-feldspar granites), indicating that the Huichizi granitic complex is the product of multi-periodic magmatism. The positive but varying zircon eHf(t) values (+0.6 to +8.5) suggest that this thickened lower crust was mainly juvenile, i.e., accreted from depleted mantle during the Neo-Mesoproterozoic Period, but involved the ancient recycled crust. Biotite monzonitic granites formed during crust thickening at the extrusion stage, whereas the alkali granites formed during crust thickening at the extension stage (post extrusion). The Huichizi granite complex witnessed the process of extrusion to extension because of the collision between the NCB and the Qinling microcontinent in the Caledonian.

Evaluation of granitic rocks as feldspar source: Al Madinah, Western Part of Saudi Arabia

ABSTRACTThe source of the feldspar is found in the Late-Precambrian granitoid rocks of Al Madinah area, which covers about 2000 km2 within a 44,000 km2 area of the western part of Saudi Arabia. Petrographical and geochemical study shows that the granitic rocks have a considerable compositional range from quartz monzonite, quartz syenite, syenite, alkali granite to alkali feldspar granite. Mineralogical and petrographical results have revealed that Al Madinah granites are composed of quartz, K- feldspar, Na-plagioclase and muscovite. Geochemical data for the feldspar samples show average SiO2, Al2O3, K2O, Na2O, CaO, Fe2O3, MgO and TiO2 contents of 71.33, 13.71, 4.78, 5.93, 1.17, 1.89, 0.34 and 0.31 wt.%, respectively, while mineralogical results reveal average K-feldspar and Na-plagioclase contents of 28.53% and 39.66%, respectively. They are almost invariably composed of metaluminous, calc-alkaline and shoshonite, with respect to alumina saturation. These deposits are characterized and evaluated for their potential as a source of feldspar.

Early Silurian to Early Carboniferous ridge subduction in NW Junggar: Evidence from geochronological, geochemical, and Sr-Nd-Hf isotopic data on alkali granites and adakites

The Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) evolved through a long-lived orogeny involving multiple episodes of subduction and accretion marking a major phase of continental growth during the Paleozoic. The northern part of the Western Junggar region (NW Junggar) offers a window into these processes, particularly to constrain the timing of closure of the Paleo-Asian Ocean. Here we report geochemical, geochronological, and isotopic data from K-feldspar granites and adakitic rocks from the NW Junggar region. Zircon U-Pb ages suggest that the granites were emplaced during Early Silurian to the Early Carboniferous (434–328Ma). The granites show geochemical characteristics similar to those of A-type granites, with high SiO2 (71.13–76.72wt%), Na2O+K2O (8.00–9.59wt%), and Al2O3 (12.28–14.08wt%), but depleted Sr, Nb, Ta and Eu. They display moderate to high positive εNd(t) and εHf(t) values (4.26–8.21 and 7.69–14.60, respectively) and young Nd and Hf model ages (T2DM-Nd=489–740 Ma and T2DM-Hf=471–845 Ma), suggesting magma derivation through partial melting of lower crust in the Boshchekul-Chingiz and Zharma-Saur arcs. The adakites are characterized by high Sr content (406.5–751.6ppm), and low Y (13.8–16.4ppm) and Yb (1.5–1.8ppm) content, yielding relatively high Sr/Y ratios (25.38–49.41) similar to those of modern adakites. They have high positive εNd(t) and εHf(t) values (7.85–8.25 and 13.23–15.97, respectively) and young Nd and Hf model ages (T2DM-Nd=429–535Ma and T2DM-Hf=355–550Ma), indicating that their source magmas were likely derived from partial melting of the oceanic crust beneath the Boshchekul-Chingiz arc. The petrogenesis and distribution of the A-type granites and adakites, as well as the tectonic architecture of the region, suggest that a ridge subduction event might have occurred during the Early Silurian to Early Carboniferous. In combination with previous studies in the Chinese Altai, we suggest a two-sided ridge subduction model for the Junggar-Altai region.

Age and geological position of the Okunyovo rare-metal ore magmatic complex (Western Sayan Mountains)

Geological, geochemical, and geochronological studies of rocks have been performed at the Okunyovo rare-metal ore magmatic complex (Western Sayan Mountains) composed of alkali granites and related F–Be mineralization. The geological data obtained and the features of the geochemical similarity of granite and ore mineralization identified are indicative of their genetic relation. Riebeckite from two granite samples has been subjected to 40Ar/39Ar analyses. The estimated age values of 481.5 ± 2.7 Ma and 486.5 ± 5.8 Ma are consistent within the limits of error and determine the age of Okunyovo alkali granite within 481–486 Ma ago. These data have made it possible to relate the studied rock and ore formation to the development of the Early Paleozoic ASFR controlled by the mantle plume. Along with the Okunyovo rare-metal granite massif, within the Sayan Region of the magmatic province, there are a number of Early Paleozoic alkali massifs related to the Aryskan, Raduga, and Kazyr rare-metal deposits. They are located in the conjugation area of the Western and Eastern Sayan ridges, in the Early Paleozoic Eastern Sayan rare-metal magmatism zone specialized in Be, W, Mo, Zr, Nb, and REEs.

Geochemistry of ∼2.5 Ga granitoids at the northern margin of the Yinshan Block: Implications for the crustal evolution of the North China Craton

In order to further constrain the crustal development and tectonic evolution of the North China Craton (NCC) during late Neoarchean to early Paleoproterozoic, we performed petrological and geochemical analyses on forty-six granitoid samples from the northern margin of the craton at Siziwangqi in central Inner Mongolia. The granitoids commonly consist of a tonalite-trondhjemite-granodiorite (TTG) suite and alkali feldspar (rich in potassium) granites. The geochemistry and isotopic characteristics suggest that they formed in a subduction-related arc setting. An Andean-type magmatic arc model is proposed to explain several unique geochemical features of the Siziwangqi granitoids, notably that the rocks are metaluminous to peraluminous and belong to the calc-alkaline (TTG) and subalkaline to alkaline (alkali feldspar granite) series. The TTG granitoids are characterized by light LREE enrichment, a weak positive Eu anomaly, and flat heavy HREE profiles. The alkali granite is also enriched in the LREE but has a strong positive chondrite-normalized Eu anomaly and displays weak HREE enrichment. Petrogenetic studies reveal that most samples are of I-type granitoids. The data further suggest that the subduction-induced magmatism and slab rollback processes may have triggered reworking of both juvenile arc crust and minor older continental crust material along the north margin of Yinshan Block, leading to the formation of granitoids from S- to I-type in the study area. Overall, the NCC experienced a tectonic regime that changed from compressional to extensional during the early Paleoproterozoic at ∼2.4Ga, after the ca. 2.5Ga cratonization event.

Riftogenic magmatism of western part of the Early Mesozoic Mongolian–Transbaikalian igneous province: Results of geochronological studies

Geochronological studies of rocks from a bimodal high-alkali volcanic–plutonic complex collected in the area of Kharkhorin zone of the Early Mesozoic Mongolian–Transbaikalian igneous province (MTIP) are made. The age of alkali granites from Olziit sum is 211 ± 1 Ma (U–Pb ID-TIMS on zircon) to 209 ± 2 and 217 ± 4 Ma (40Ar/39Ar on alkali amphibole); the age of alkali granite-porphyries from the area of Sant sum is 206 ± 1 Ma (U–Pb ID-TIMS on zircon). These rock series formed syncronously to the analogous magmatism episode in the Northern Gobi and Western Transbaikalian rift zones of the MTIP. The similarity of the age and composition of igneous associations of the MTIP suggests a common mechanism of its formation related to the effect of a mantle plume on the continental lithosphere at the base of the entire igneous zone having a zonal structure.

Lithologic mapping of Aja granitic batholiths, Ha’il, Saudi Arabia, using remote sensing

In this study, remote sensing, field and petrographic investigation were integrated for lithological mapping of different granitic masses in Aja complex of Ha’il, Saudi Arabia. The Landsat-8 data were processed to spectrally discriminate variations within rock types using band combinations, band ratioing and principal component analysis (PCA) techniques. Results showed that band combination of the principal components could potentially distinguish the different rock units of Aja complex than any other transform. Field observations and petrographic identification were performed to validate remotely sensing data and to map different rock units. Alkali granites were accurately recorded on the peripheries of Aja Mountain. The present study demonstrates that remote sensing techniques could provide useful tools for mapping economic rock types, particularly in well-exposed arid regions.

Neoproterozoic arc magmatism in the southern Madurai Block, India: Subduction, relamination, continental outbuilding, and the growth of Gondwana

The Madurai Block in southern India is a composite collage of at least three sub-blocks, with Neoarchean–Paleoproterozoic segments in the north and central domains, and a Neoproterozoic segment in the south. Here we investigate a suite of rocks with magmatic protoliths that constitute the basement in the southern margin of the Madurai Block including alkali granites, charnockites, enderbites and gabbros. The alkali granites are dominantly composed of perthitic K-feldspar, minor plagioclase and quartz, with hornblende as the main mafic mineral suggesting a calc-alkaline nature. The enderbites and charnockites have a broadly similar mineralogical constitution except for the variation in the modal content of plagioclase, K-feldspar and quartz, as well as the additional presence of clinopyroxene in some of the enderbites. The high modal content of hornblende in the gabbros suggests crystallization from hydrous basaltic melts. The geochemical features of this suite are identical to those of arc magmatic rocks, with distinct Nb, Ta, and Ti depletion suggesting magmatism in a subduction-related environment. We envisage that the underplating of basaltic magmas within a convergent margin setting provided the heat input for lower crustal melting generating the charnockitic suite of rocks. The intrusion of the underplated mafic melts as gabbroic dykes and sills into the crystallizing felsic magmas resulted in magma mixing and mingling generating the widespread enclaves of gabbroic rocks. The alkali granites were derived from the differentiation of lower crustal melts. Zircon U–Pb data from the alkali granites yield weighted mean 206Pb/238U ages of 786±10 to 772±11Ma for the oldest and the most dominant group of magmatic grains, with a 662±20Ma subordinate group. The oldest group of magmatic zircons in the charnockite samples shows ages of 938±27Ma, 896±12Ma, and 786±9Ma, suggesting multiple magmatic pulses during early and mid-Neoproterozoic. A subordinate population of magmatic zircons with ages of 661±9Ma and 632±7Ma is also present. In the enderbites, the magmatic zircon population yields weighted mean ages of 926±22Ma, 923±36Ma, 889±13Ma, 803±10Ma, 787±23Ma, 786±10Ma, 748±27Ma, 742±11Ma, 717±8Ma and 692±10Ma suggesting continuous and multiple pulses of magmas emplaced throughout early to mid-Neoproterozoic. Magmatic zircons from the gabbros show weighted mean 206Pb/238U ages of 903±13Ma, 777±10Ma, 729±10Ma and 639±27Ma. Metamorphic zircons from all the rock types show latest Neoproterozoic-Cambrian ages in the range of 567±19Ma to 510±8Ma suggesting prolonged heating. Zircon Lu–Hf data show that the alkali granite-charnockite-enderbite suite has depleted mantle ages (TDM) in the range of 1164–2172Ma and crustal residence ages (TDMC) of 1227–3023Ma. These spots show both negative εHf(t) and positive εHf(t) values (−22.1 to 10.6), suggesting magma derivation from mixed juvenile mid- to late-Mesoproterozoic components and reworked Mesoarchean to mid-Mesoproterozoic components. Zircon grains from the gabbroic rocks show depleted mantle ages and (TDM) in the range of 1112–2046Ma, crustal residence ages (TDMC) of 1306–2816Ma, and both negative and positive εHf(t) values (−17.8 to 7.9), suggesting that the magmas were dominantly derived from juvenile mid-Mesoproterozoic to Neoproterozoic components as well as reworked Mesoarchean to mid-Mesoproterozoic sources.Our data clearly reveal multiple arc magmatism along the southern Madurai Block during distinct pulses throughout early to late Neoproterozoic, suggesting an active convergent margin along this zone at this time. Crustal thickening occurred through relamination by mafic magmas associated with slab melting. Continental outbuilding and southward growth of the Madurai Block were associated with the lateral accretion of the vast sedimentary belt of Trivandrum Block, culminating in collisional metamorphism during latest Neoproterozoic–Cambrian associated with Gondwana assembly.