Convergent Margin Setting Research Articles

The relationship between iron redox states and H2O contents in back-arc basin basaltic glasses from the North Fiji Basin

Island-arc basalts (IAB) from convergent plate margins tend to have both higher iron oxidation states (higher Fe3+/Fe2+) and higher H2O contents than the mid-ocean ridge basalts (MORB) produced by seafloor spreading, which raises the question of whether these two characteristics are causally related. Back-arc basin basalts (BABB) may help with this question, in that they are products of seafloor spreading, like MORB, but sourced from supra-subduction mantle, like IAB. Here we examine the relationship between Fe3+/Fe2+ (determined by XANES spectroscopy) and H2O contents in BABB glasses from the North Fiji Basin (NFB). The glasses cover a range of compositions from 6.1 to 8.5 wt% MgO, and from 0.16 to 1.6 wt% H2O, and have also been analysed for trace elements and Sr-Nd-Pb-isotopes. Measured Fe3+/Fe2+ range from MORB-like to slightly higher values and are positively correlated with H2O and heavy-halogen contents (Cl, Br and I). The correlation is due to lower Fe2+ rather than higher Fe3+ compared to the MORB array. This suite of BABBs is not significantly enriched in trace elements other than H2O and the heavy halogens, with MORB-like Ba/Th and other incompatible-element ratios, suggesting that the H2O and halogens may have come from dehydration of subducted lithospheric serpentinites under subsolidus conditions. Na2O is unusually variable for a suite of samples from such a limited area, and is not correlated with H2O, precluding a relationship between H2O and degree of melting. The link between H2O and low Fe2+ may be explained by H2O-rich fluids entering the transcrustal magma plumbing system, where they increase the proportion of olivine and augite to plagioclase crystallizing during the crustal evolution of the magmas. In this situation, relatively small additions of H2O can have an enhanced effect on major-element chemistry if the crustal evolution proceeds by cycles of replenish-mix-tap-crystallize (RMTX) rather than by simple fractional crystallization without repeated replenishment and tapping. The absence of any increase in Fe3+ with H2O, together with the lack of any correlation between H2O and Fe3+/Fe2+ in MORB glasses generally, suggest that various mechanisms, including more extensive olivine fractionation, were responsible for elevating Fe3+/Fe2+ in H2O-rich basalts from convergent margin settings. Proxy methods based on concentrations of elements with redox-variable partition coefficients (V, Eu) are not sensitive enough to record the subtle variations in Fe3+/Fe2+ observable by XANES spectroscopy.

Potential controls on magmatic Ni-Cu sulfide mineralization in orogenic belts: Constraints from mineral compositions of the Huangshandong and Erhongwa intrusions in eastern Tianshan, NW China

Numerous Permian mafic-ultramafic intrusions are situated in the eastern Tianshan Orogen at the southern margin of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. These intrusions demonstrate a diverse range of magmatic Ni-Cu sulfide mineralization. Notably, the Huangshandong intrusion hosts a large Ni-Cu sulfide deposit, whereas the Erhongwa intrusion lacks any economically significant sulfide mineralization. Both intrusions exhibit similar lithologies and mainly consist of lherzolite, gabbro, gabbronorite and diorite.To elucidate the controlling factors influencing the disparity in mineralization between two intrusions, analyses were conducted on the compositions of olivine, spinel, pyroxene and amphibole. Olivine grains from the Erhongwa lherzolite have lower Ni (361–943 ppm) contents than those from Huangshandong layered lherzolite (Ni 684–864 ppm) and Huangshandong massive lherzolite (Ni 1218 to 1878 ppm). This discrepancy may be attributed to early sulfide separation occurring at greater depths. Modeling results indicated that for the Huangshandong mantle source, 1 % slab-derived melts and 2 % slab-derived fluids were incorporated; conversely, for the Erhongwa mantle source, approximately 2.5 % slab-derived melts and 0.5 % slab-derived fluids were added.Parental magmas of the Erhongwa intrusion exhibit higher oxygen fugacity and water contents than those of the Huangshandong intrusion. Specifically, the magma of the Erhongwa intrusion undergoes magma evolution within a shallow magma chamber, whereas the magma of the Huangshandong intrusion gains sulfide saturation within a deep magma chamber. This research suggests that factors including mantle source features, suitable timing for sulfide separation, and depth of magma chamber are essential for Ni-Cu sulfide mineralization in mafic-ultramafic intrusions in convergent margin setting.

Lithospheric mantle as a metal storage reservoir for orogenic gold deposits in active continental margins: Evidence from Hg isotopes

Abstract The subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) is now suggested by many workers to play a role in the formation of orogenic gold deposits in active continental margins, given that the gold and volatiles may be introduced into the SCLM during plate subduction. The giant Cretaceous Jiaodong gold province within the North China block occurs in a convergent margin setting where there is no terrane accretion, thus eliminating from consideration the commonly accepted metal and fluid source reservoir for orogenic gold—the metamorphosed upper crust of an active orogenic belt. Thus, the auriferous fluids were released below the high-grade Archean cratonic rocks from either enriched SCLM or directly from the subducted oceanic slab. Mercury (Hg) isotopes allow fingerprinting of isotopically distinct reservoirs, discriminating between the two possibilities. We present Hg isotope data for a set of pyrite grains, native gold, and lamprophyres from six main gold districts in the Jiaodong gold province. These samples dominantly yielded near-zero Δ199Hg (0‰ ± 0.1‰), within uncertainty of the mantle Δ199Hg value. The results provide novel evidence that the SCLM predominantly controlled the Hg budget of the Jiaodong gold deposits, implying that the SCLM acted as a buffer for the crustal mass-independent fractionation Hg signatures and a storage reservoir for gold and volatiles. Consequently, during slab subduction, gold and volatiles were recycled and stored within the SCLM and were later released from the mantle during uplift and relaxation of compressional tectonics.

Metamorphism and P-T Evolution of High-Pressure Granulites from the Fuping Complex, North China Craton

Granulite facies rocks provide important keys to evaluating collisional metamorphism in orogenic belts. The mafic granulites of Baoding in the Fuping Complex of the North China Craton occur within the Trans-North China Orogen (TNCO), a major Paleoproterozoic collisional orogen. Here, we present results from detailed investigations on newly discovered garnet pyroxenite, garnet two-pyroxene granulite, and garnet-bearing-plagioclase amphibolite using petrographic, mineralogical, geochemical, and zircon U-Pb dating methods. Our results show that the Fuping Complex metamorphic evolution in this study evolved in four stages: prograde (M1), high-pressure granulite facies (M2), granulite facies (M3), and retrograde (M4) stages. The mineral assemblage of the prograde stage (M1) consists of Amp + Pl + Q within garnet cores. The mineral assemblage of high-pressure granulite facies at the peak stage (M2) consists of Gt + Cpx + Pl + Q ± Amp, forming the garnet pyroxenite. The granulite facies stage M3 is characterized by the occurrence of orthopyroxene, with a mineral assemblage of Gt + Cpx + Opx + Amp+ Pl + Q. The early retrograde stage M4-1 includes clinopyroxenes scattered inside amphiboles, following the breakdown of garnet and clinopyroxene. The mineral assemblage of this stage comprises Amp + Pl + Q + Ilm ± Cpx. Later, in the late retrograde stage M4-2, the composition of amphiboles changed to actinolite, and epidote and chlorite started to appear in the matrix. Traditional geothermobarometry yielded P-T conditions of 700~706 °C and 6.0~6.2 kbar for prograde stage M1, 854~920 °C and 13.0~13.8 kbar for high-pressure granulite facies stage M2, 912~939 °C and 8.1~9.9 kbar for M3, 661~784 °C and 3.1~4.4 kbar for M4-1, and 637~638 °C, 1.1~1.3 kbar for M4-2, along a clockwise P-T path with a nearly isothermal decompression (ITD) and slight heating. Zircon LA-ICP-MS U-Pb dating constrains the timing of the high-pressure granulite facies metamorphic event to be between 1.83 and 1.86 Ga. Geochemical features suggest that the protoliths of the high-pressure granulites may have formed in an island arc environment within a convergent margin setting. Together with results from previous studies, our data suggest that the ~1.85 Ga metamorphic age recorded in the Fuping Complex represents a regional metamorphism in the TNCO, associated with the subduction–collision and assembly of the Eastern and Western Blocks of the NCC.

Origin of composite Ni-Cu sulfide- and Fe-Ti oxide-bearing mafic-ultramafic intrusions in the Central Asian Orogenic Belt, China: Role of externally derived crustal organic carbon in controlling mineralization of post-collisional mafic magmatism

Composite Ni-Cu sulfide- and Fe-Ti oxide-bearing mafic-ultramafic intrusions have been discovered in convergent margin settings worldwide, but their origins remain enigmatic. Permian Kebu mafic-ultramafic intrusion in the Central Asian Orogenic Belt hosts both Ni-Cu sulfide and Fe-Ti oxide mineralization and formed in a post-collisional, Andean-style arc setting. The Ni-Cu sulfide- and Fe-Ti oxide-bearing rocks in the intrusion have similarly arc-like trace element patterns on the primitive mantle−normalized trace element diagram and negative εNd(t) values (−16 to −5), which indicate that the parental magma of the intrusion may have been derived from the enriched, metasomatized lithospheric mantle. The magma oxygen fugacity (fO2) was calculated to be FMQ+1.3∼FMQ+2.0, which can be attributed to the evolution of hydrated parental magma derived from the metasomatized lithospheric mantle. Also, the rocks all have negative δ13C values (−28.5‰ to −20‰), which indicates incorporation of external-derived crustal organic carbon into magmas. However, the Ni-Cu sulfide-bearing rocks contain more high-temperature carbon than the Fe-Ti oxide-bearing rocks. Modeling results based on alphaMELTS show that the magmas forming the Ni-Cu sulfide-bearing rocks may have assimilated more organic carbon than those that formed the Fe-Ti oxide-bearing rocks. Based on the estimated amounts of organic carbon in the two types of rocks, we deduced that initially oxidized magma pulses may have been reduced in variable degrees, leading to the formation of composite Ni-Cu sulfide and Fe-Ti oxide mineralization in one intrusive body. Mafic magmas in subduction-related, convergent margin settings are commonly highly oxidized due to metasomatism of the mantle wedge by slab-derived fluids/melts, and this may explain why the mafic-ultramafic intrusions associated with composite Ni-Cu sulfide and Fe-Ti oxide mineralization often occur in convergent margin settings.

Foraminifera assemblages from Fantangisña serpentinite mud seamount in the NW Pacific Ocean during the Pleistocene (IODP Expedition 366).

The Mariana forearc system, in the northwestern Pacific, is known as the only convergent margin setting with currently active serpentine mud volcanism. The Fantangisña serpentinite mud volcano lies 62 km west of the Mariana trench, within the influence of the North Equatorial Current (NEC). Cores recovered by International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) Expedition 366 contain pelagic sediments overlying layered serpentinite mud deposits. At the bottom of the sequence, nannofossil-rich forearc deposits were recovered from under the seamount edifice. In this study, we investigated 47 samples from Site U1498A on the southern flank of the seamount for benthic and planktonic foraminifera assemblages. Statistical analyses on planktonic assemblages differentiated two sample groups related to the ratio between thermocline/mixed layer taxa, which indicate fluctuations in the depth of the thermocline (DOT) during the Pleistocene. Variations in the DOT reflect changes in the intensity of the NEC associated with El Niño/La Niña conditions. Mudflows do not influence the ecology of planktonic foraminifera but possibly enhance their preservation against dissolution, which was instead detected in the pelagic deposit as suggested by common Globigerinoides conglobatus. Benthic foraminifers were rare in serpentinite mud deposits as they are severely affected by mudflows. Conversely, they showed high diversity pre-/post-mud-volcanism, and indicate oligotrophic bottom-water conditions.

Paleozoic Granitic Rocks from the Telmen Complex in the Tarvagatai Block, Central Mongolia: Petrogenesis, U-Pb geochronology, and its tectonic implications

The Tarvagatai Block is located in the northern part of Central Mongolia, which is a widespread occurrence and occupies roughly 60% of the whole exposure along the Khangai fault and the Tarvagatai uplift. Granitic magmatism was emplacement during the Middle Paleozoic, which is predominantly composed of granite-granodiorite and gabbro-diorite and rarely gabbro. This article represents petrographical, geochemical, and U-Pb zircon age data from the Telmen Complex of the Tarvagatai Block, Central Mongolia. The U-Pb dating of zircon yields a Late Silurian emplacement age (419±3 Ma) for the Telmen Complex. Geochemically, the Telmen Complex is an I-type intrusion of metaluminous nature with a SiO2 content ranging from 53.06 to 72.25 wt.% and mainly of medium to high K calc-alkaline series. Telmen Complex granites show enrichments in light rare earth elements, depletion in heavy rare earth elements, with a ratio of 4.053, (La/Yb)N =9.15, and weak positive or normal Eu anomalies. A spider diagram indicates that these rocks are enriched in Ba, K, Pb, and Sr and depleted in Nb, Ta, and Ti. The Early Paleozoic Telmen Complex granitics have trace element features, for example, Nb-Ta depletions, which indicate that these rock units were emplaced in a convergent-margin setting and typical of the lower continental crust. In addition, the geochemical data show that the volcanic arc tectonic setting and, moreover, the continental arc array setting display on the Nb/Yb versus TiO2/Yb diagrams. Therefore, we suggest that they were probably positioned in an active continental setting and in a Silurian ~419 Ma.

Subduction disruption, slab tears: ca. 1 Ma true collision of an ~30‐km‐thick oceanic plateau segment recorded by Yakutat slab nascent tear magmatism

AbstractDistinguishing the initiation of actual collision from flat‐slab subduction of oceanic buoyant highs along convergent margins is elusive because both can lead to inboard deformation and disrupt magmatic arcs. Volcanoes with nascent tear magmatic signatures provide a means to document both the occurrence and timing of actual oceanic buoyant high collision. There is a ~40‐year debate on when the true collision of the Yakutat plateau began in Alaska. Three newly identified ca. 1 Ma volcanoes with a north‐to‐south trench perpendicular orientation, nascent tear geochemical signatures, overlaying an imaged Yakutat slab tear, provide constraints on the timing of Yakutat collision and slab tearing. The ca. 1 Ma slab tear is coincident with Yakutat slab segmentation, northern continental Aleutian Arc rejuvenation, cessation of Wrangell Arc magmatism, increased collisional zone exhumation and eastern Yakutat trench abandonment. The documentation of nascent slab tear volcanoes may help resolve similar debates in other convergent margin settings.

Copper isotope fractionation in magmatic Ni–Cu mineralization systems associated with the variation of oxygen fugacity in silicate magmas

Significant variations of oxygen fugacity (fO2) in silicate magmas are widely suggested to play an important role in formation of magmatic Ni–Cu deposits in convergent margin settings. Copper isotopes have potential to track redox change of magmatic systems, but the linkage of silicate magma oxygen fugacity with Cu isotope fractionation in magmatic Ni–Cu mineralization systems is still uncertain. A combined study of Cu isotopes and estimated oxygen fugacities can provide novel and direct insights into this issue. In this study, four magmatic Ni–Cu deposits in Eastern Tianshan (NW China) were investigated in order to reveal the fO2 variations in silicate magmas as a function of redox-induced Cu isotope fractionation. The silicate magma fO2 of the four deposits widely varies from ∼QFM –2.2 to + 0.6, from ∼QFM –0.7 to 0.0, from ∼QFM –1.4 to –0.2, and from ∼QFM –1.2 to –0.6 for the Tulaergen, Huangshandong, Huangshannan, and Hulu deposits, respectively. Models using olivine compositions, Cu/Pd ratios, and estimated silicate magma fO2 suggest that the silicate magmas gradually became more oxidized as Ni–Cu mineralization proceeded. The closed-system R factor equation and the Rayleigh equation were used to model mineralization processes and related Cu isotope fractionation. Modelling using δ65Cu values and the estimated fO2 indicates that the evolved silicate magmas with high fO2 tend to incorporate heavier Cu isotopes. Our studies indicate that the fO2 variation of silicate magmas is the key factor governing Cu isotope fractionation in magmatic Ni–Cu mineralization systems in convergent tectonic settings, which is potentially applicable for other magmatic Ni–Cu deposits worldwide.

Geochemical and geochronological constraints on the Mesoproterozoic Red Granite Suite, Kunene AMCG Complex of Angola and Namibia

Anorthosite-mangerite-charnockite-granite (AMCG) suites form large batholiths emplaced during the Proterozoic Eon. Magma source(s), emplacement mechanisms, and the tectonic setting of AMCG suites remain poorly understood. We present new major and trace element geochemistry combined with U-Pb zircon geochronology and Lu-Hf isotopes for the Red Granite Suite, part of the Mesoproterozoic Kunene AMCG Complex (Angola and Namibia), and its Paleoproterozoic host rocks, to elucidate the petrogenesis and tectonic setting of the Kunene Complex granitoids. The studied samples are mostly granite with minor syenite and quartz monzonite. LA-MC-ICPMS U-Pb zircon dates indicate that felsic magmatism was active for at least 90 Myr (1450–1360 Ma) and shows spatial and temporal similarities with emplacement of the main anorthositic body. The geochemistry of the granitoids did not change substantially over time, with predominant alkali-calcic, A-type granites. The εHf(t) of zircon grains in the Red Granite Suite ranges between −11.3 and + 1.6. These results, when considered together with Hf isotopic compositions of zircon from the Paleoproterozoic host rocks (εHf(t) = -11.3 to + 0.4) and xenocrysts in the Red Granite, suggest the suite is derived from the mixing of a Paleoproterozoic crustal component with juvenile mantle-derived material. Syn-magmatic east–west shortening has been documented in both the anorthosites and Red Granites at the southwestern margin of the Kunene Complex in the period 1400–1380 Ma. The results from the Hf isotopes on zircon, combined with the long-lived nature of magmatism, the syn-contractional magmatism, at least locally, and the requirement for extensive crustal melting, suggest that the Red Granite Suite was formed in a convergent margin setting. This challenges the traditional view that A-type granitoids are restricted to anorogenic, extensional settings, and is in agreement with recent views on the petrogenesis of massif-type anorthosites and their associated MCG magmatism.

Detrital Zircon U-Pb Geochronology of Upper Devonian and Lower Carboniferous Strata of Western Laurentia (North America): A Record of Transition from Passive to Convergent Margin

Abstract The Late Devonian-Early Carboniferous (DC) Antler orogeny in southwestern Laurentia is contemporaneous with influx of clastic sediments, unconformities, and volcanism across much of western Laurentia (WL), suggesting the demise of the Paleozoic passive margin. However beyond the type Antler orogeny in southwestern Laurentia, the DC tectonic setting is still unclear. Westerly sediment provenance has been suggested as evidence of a convergent margin setting in a foreland basin. However, there is a gap in our understanding in central WL (Alberta and Montana) despite the fact that paleogeographic reconstructions place this area at the centre of WL. We provide detrital zircon (DZ) U-Pb geochronological data from strata in Alberta, Montana, and Nevada that are synchronous with the Antler orogeny to constrain sediment dispersal patterns and test the westerly sediment sourcing hypothesis. We show three DZ facies specific to particular geographic locations: DZ facies 1 in southern Nevada has a prominent subpopulation of early to mid-Mesoproterozoic (mode at 1430 Ma), DZ facies 2 in northeastern Nevada has a late Paleoproterozoic population (mode at 1823 Ma), and DZ facies 3 in Alberta and Montana displays Mesoproterozoic to Neoproterozoic (mode at 1036 Ma), mid-Paleozoic (mode at 411 Ma), and depositional (ca. 360-340 Ma) ages. North-south variation in DZ facies indicates that WL basins were locally sourced from various tectonic fragments having different signatures. Comparing our data with published data, we show that WL is dominated by DZ recycled from uplifted older strata with input from mid-Paleozoic arc terrane (s) to the west. Westerly sourcing is evidenced by the presence of near-depositional ages and affinities of this study’s DZ facies with strata located to the west. Our results and geological evidence from other studies suggest that the Antler orogeny triggered a depositional shift and controlled sediments dispersal in WL, signaling the demise of the Paleozoic passive margin.

Noble gas isotope systematics in the Canary Islands and implications for refractory mantle components

Noble gas isotope systematics of ocean island basalts (OIB) provide evidence for relatively undegassed and primitive mantle sources. These OIB sources partly derive from the deep mantle by virtue of their distinctiveness from mid-ocean ridge basalts (MORB), which dominantly sample upper mantle. New helium, neon and argon isotope data are presented for Canary Islands lavas, carbonatites and cumulate and mantle xenoliths confirming 3He/4He ratios that are the same or lower than MORB, but that are heterogeneous (∼3–9.5RA) within and between islands in the archipelago. Neon and Ar isotope systematics for lavas are mostly within the range of air compositions. Harzburgite xenoliths from Lanzarote, which are interpreted to represent ancient refractory mantle residues, have distinct He-Ne-Ar isotope systematics from lavas or cumulate xenoliths. The harzburgites are characterized by forsteritic olivine (>Fo91) with uniformly low-3He/4He (6.6 ± 0.2RA), high 40Ar/36Ar (630–4900), and have Ne isotope compositions that range between air values or that are similar or more nucleogenic than depleted MORB mantle (DMM). Similar refractory mantle peridotites have been discovered as xenoliths at other OIB localities and are likely to be distinct from continental lithospheric mantle. Refractory mantle (RM), which by virtue of its high melting temperature is difficult to partially melt, may be a significant component in the convecting mantle and has potential to impart a cryptic noble gas signature to partial melts in intraplate, divergent and convergent margin settings. In this sense, RM may represent a ‘sixth mantle component’ after DMM, high-µ (high 238U/204Pb; HIMU), enriched mantle endmembers (EMI, EMII) and the ‘focus zone’ (FOZO). An RM-type component may be presented in the older eastern Canary Islands and possibly in recent rejuvenated volcanism from Teide (Tenerife). Canary Island intraplate volcanism samples multiple mantle components, confirming that the most gas-rich mantle sources involved in magmatism dominate OIB noble gas compositions.

Lithospheric conductors reveal source regions of convergent margin mineral systems

The clean energy transition will require a vast increase in metal supply, yet new mineral deposit discoveries are declining, due in part to challenges associated with exploring under sedimentary and volcanic cover. Recently, several case studies have demonstrated links between lithospheric electrical conductors imaged using magnetotelluric (MT) data and mineral deposits, notably Iron Oxide Copper Gold (IOCG). Adoption of MT methods for exploration is therefore growing but the general applicability and relationship with many other deposit types remains untested. Here, we compile a global inventory of MT resistivity models from Australia, North and South America, and China and undertake the first quantitative assessment of the spatial association between conductors and three mineral deposit types commonly formed in convergent margin settings. We find that deposits formed early in an orogenic cycle such as volcanic hosted massive sulfide (VHMS) and copper porphyry deposits show weak to moderate correlations with conductors in the upper mantle. In contrast, deposits formed later in an orogenic cycle, such as orogenic gold, show strong correlations with mid-crustal conductors. These variations in resistivity response likely reflect mineralogical differences in the metal source regions of these mineral systems and suggest a metamorphic-fluid source for orogenic gold is significant. Our results indicate the resistivity structure of mineralized convergent margins strongly reflects late-stage processes and can be preserved for hundreds of millions of years. Discerning use of MT is therefore a powerful tool for mineral exploration.

Petrogenesis and tectonic setting of the Pan-African Deng-Deng intrusive complex in the Lom series, Eastern Cameroon

The Deng-Deng intrusive complex belongs to the Central African Fold Belt (CAFB) in eastern Cameroon and includes granodiorite and diorite. Both rocks are classified as metaluminous to slightly peraluminous, high-K calc-alkaline, and I-type granitoids (A/CNK <1.1). Primitive mantle-normalized trace-element patterns display large-ion lithophile elements (LILE) enrichment, such as Rb, Cs, Ba and K, and depletion in high-field-strength elements (HFSEs), such as Nb, Ti, Ta and P. The studied rocks are enriched in LREEs relative to HREEs and exhibit weak negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.61–0.92 and 0.59–0.67 for the granodiorite and diorite, respectively), suggesting active continental margin arc affinity. The emplacement temperatures of these granitoids are estimated between 775 and 806 °C. Combined with their diagnostic ratios (e.g., Th/Ta, Rb/Sr, Nb/La, and La/Sm), we propose that the Deng-Deng granitoids were sourced by mixing between mafic magma derived from the lithospheric mantle and felsic magma derived from partial melting of a lower crust in a convergent margin setting.

Linked detachment folds, thrust faults, and salt diapirs: Observations and analog models

Contractional deformation in salt-bearing rifted- and convergent-margin settings often involves diapirism. Diapirs may predate the onset of shortening, such that they exert a pronounced influence on how contractional strain is accommodated, or they may be triggered by the shortening. Analog models have been used to help understand the interaction and evolution of detachment folds, thrust faults, and diapirs, but few surface or subsurface datasets provide adequate three-dimensional images to test and refine the experimental results. Here we use 3D depth-migrated seismic data from the Sureste Basin, offshore SE Mexico, to map two structures, one dominated by salt-cored anticlines and one characterized by thrust faults. Associated diapirs include both pre- and syncontractional stocks and walls. We show that although analog models in the literature nicely reproduce some of the seismic geometries, there are also apparent mismatches. Whereas models often generate decapitated diapirs and thrust-fault salients centered on the diapirs, such features are absent in the study area. Moreover, in contrast to model thrust faults that dip 20-45°, faults in the study area are steeper, ranging from 50 to 75°. We bring in observations from other salt basins to discuss these discrepancies, possible explanations, and suggestions for improving the applicability of models to nature.

Crustal melting and suprasolidus phase equilibria: From first principles to the state-of-the-art

Partial melting is the fundamental process by which juvenile crust was produced from the mantle and subsequently reworked to become the stable, compositionally-differentiated continents on which we live and which host most of the elemental resources required by our modern technological society. Irreversible differentiation of the continental crust occurs principally through the production, segregation and migration of silica-rich (felsic) melts from deeper source rocks to shallower sinks where they erupt or, more commonly, crystallise as granite sensu lato. Here we provide for both novices and professionals a comprehensive but accessible account of the processes involved in crustal melting and suprasolidus phase equilibria from first principles to the forefront of modern research. To begin, we introduce the tectono-metamorphic context for crustal melting before considering the evidence at outcrop and in thin section for partial melting, then briefly review melt extraction from crustal rocks. As a prerequisite to understanding the physicochemical basis for crustal melting, we summarize the essential thermodynamics that underpin calculated phase equilibria, distinguish different types of melting reaction, and review the requirements for, methodology behind, and limitations of a phase equilibrium modelling approach based on equilibrium thermodynamics. We explain the various types of phase diagram used to investigate partial melting and assess open versus closed system processes, including internal and external buffering of H2O. Those crustal sources that partially melt to produce granite are considered in detail, namely basic rocks such as basalts and gabbros, clastic sedimentary rocks such as greywackes, siltstones and mudstones (pelites), and granites themselves. We concentrate mainly on intracrustal partial melting in convergent-margin settings, and on anatexis during exhumation of deeply-subducted continental crust from mantle depths. We discuss the behaviour of trace elements and accessory minerals during melting, and consider the implications for isotope geochemistry. To close we include a brief summary of some of the important points and offer a few suggestions for future lines of research on crustal melting.

Petrological, whole–rock geochemical, geochronological, and Lu–Hf isotope constraints on the regional tectonic evolution of the Laoling Group in northeastern Jiao–Liao–Ji Belt, North China Craton

This study examines the original nature, tectonic setting, and evolution of Paleoproterozoic metasedimentary rocks in the Laoling Group of northern Jiao–Liao–Ji Belt (JLJB), in the northeastern margin of the Eastern Block of the North China Craton (NCC), using new petrological, whole–rock geochemical, geochronological, and Lu–Hf isotope data. The youngest detrital zircons constrain the maximum deposition age of the metasedimentary rocks to 1.97 Ga, and two metamorphic zircon age peaks correspond to 1.91 and 1.84 Ga for their metamorphism. The protoliths of the metasedimentary rocks in the Laoling Group were medium- to fine-grained clastic sediments, dominated by shale, graywacke, and claystone, with a smaller amount of sandstone, derived from Paleoproterozoic granites and coeval acidic meta-volcanic rocks, with minor contributions from Mesoarchean–Neoarchean basement rocks and Paleoproterozoic meta-mafic rocks. The protoliths of the metasedimentary rocks in the Dalizi Formation of the Laoling Group were deposited in a convergent margin setting, and subduction along the northern JLJB likely ended before ca. 1.91 Ga when the Longgang and Nangrim blocks collided. The εHf(t) values of ca. 2.14 Ga zircons mostly lie between the depletion mantle and the chondrite evolution line, coupled with extensive coeval magmatism, are consistent with the ca. 2.14 Ga significant continental crust growth in this region. An integrated study of petrology, geochemistry, metamorphic P–T paths, and tectonic evolution suggests that the JLJB experienced two metamorphic events at ca. 1.91 and 1.84 Ga.

Ultrahigh‐temperature mafic granulites from the Madurai Block, southern India: Constraints from conventional thermobarometry, pseudosection analysis, and rare earth element‐based thermometry

The determination of metamorphic pressure–temperature (P–T) conditions of granulites provides us a natural window into the composition, structure, and P–T conditions of the lower crust and process of continental growth. Here, we constrain the P–T evolution of a suite of mafic granulite from the eastern part of Madurai Block. Integrated results from mineral reactions, conventional thermobarometry, and pseudosection analysis suggest that the studied mafic granulites, with a peak assemblage of coarse‐grained garnet + coarse‐grained clinopyroxene + plagioclase + quartz + [rutile], were metamorphosed under granulite facies conditions of 830 ± 50°C and 9.5 ± 1 kbar. Subsequently, the rocks underwent near isothermal decompression leading to the formation of symplectic assemblages of clinopyroxene + orthopyroxene + plagioclase and orthopyroxene + ilmenite, within a P–T range of 9.0–5.5 kbar and 750–800°C. The estimated peak temperature conditions are somewhat lower than those obtained using characteristic ultra‐high temperature (UHT) mineral assemblages and non‐conventional thermometers (~1,000°C at ~10 kbar) from the co‐metamorphosed metapelitic granulites of the Madurai Block. This may be attributed to the high diffusion rate of divalent Fe and Mg, which often results in retrograde re‐equilibration leading to considerable underestimation of peak temperatures in mafic granulites. To overcome this problem, we have additionally determined peak metamorphic temperatures of the studied rocks using a recently developed garnet–clinopyroxene rare earth element (REE)‐based thermometer that takes advantage of much lower diffusion rate of trivalent REEs. Using the REE thermometer, we have obtained a peak temperature of 1,050 ± 50°C for the studied rocks, which is in reasonable agreement with the peak metamorphic temperature obtained from previous studies. The constrained P–T conditions and the clockwise P–T path suggest that the studied rocks were buried to lower crustal depths at UHT conditions in a convergent margin setting. The near isothermal decompression suggests rapid exhumation, most likely due to an extensional event. The peak UHT metamorphic conditions could have been attained at the core of a long‐lived orogenic plateau, as suggested by other studies.

Magma oxygen fugacity of mafic-ultramafic intrusions in convergent margin settings: Insights for the role of magma oxidation states on magmatic Ni-Cu sulfide mineralization

AbstractOxygen fugacities (fO2) of mantle-derived mafic magmas have important controls on the sulfur status and solubility of the magmas, which are key factors to the formation of magmatic Ni-Cu sulfide deposits, particularly those in convergent margin settings. To investigate the fO2 of mafic magmas related to Ni-Cu sulfide deposits in convergent margin settings, we obtained the magma fO2 of several Ni-Cu sulfide-bearing mafic-ultramafic intrusions in the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB), North China, based on the olivine-spinel oxygen barometer and the modeling of V partitioning between olivine and melt. We also calculated the mantle fO2 on the basis of V/Sc ratios of primary magmas of these intrusions.Ni-Cu sulfide-bearing mafic-ultramafic intrusions in the CAOB include arc-related Silurian-Carboniferous ones and post-collisional Permian-Triassic ones. Arc-related intrusions formed before the closure of the paleo-Asian ocean and include the Jinbulake, Heishan, Kuwei, and Erbutu intrusions. Post-collisional intrusions were emplaced in extensional settings after the closure of the paleo-Asian ocean and include the Kalatongke, Baixintan, Huangshandong, Huangshan, Poyi, Poshi, Tulaergen, and Hongqiling No. 7 intrusions. It is clear that the magma fO2 values of all these intrusions in both settings range mostly from FMQ+0.5 (FMQ means fayalite-magnetite-quartz oxygen buffer) to FMQ+3 and are generally elevated with the fractionation of magmas, much higher than that of MORBs (FMQ-1 to FMQ+0.5). However, the mantle fO2 values of these intrusions vary from ~FMQ to ~FMQ+1.0, just slightly higher than that of mid-ocean ridge basalts (MORBs) (≤FMQ). This slight difference is interpreted as the intrusions in the CAOB may have been derived from the metasomatized mantle wedges where only minor slab-derived, oxidized components were involved. Therefore, the high-magma fO2 values of most Ni-Cu sulfide-bearing mafic-ultramafic intrusions in the CAOB were attributed to the fractionation of magmas derived from the slightly oxidized metasomatized mantle. In addition, the intrusions that host economic Ni-Cu sulfide deposits in the CAOB usually have magma fO2 of &amp;gt;FMQ+1.0 and sulfides with mantle-like δ34S values (–1.0 to +1.1‰), indicating that the oxidized mafic magmas may be able to dissolve enough mantle-derived sulfur to form economic Ni-Cu sulfide deposits. Oxidized mafic magmas derived from metasomatized mantle sources may be an important feature of major orogenic belts.

Mafic volcanic rocks of western Iron Ore Group, Singhbhum Craton, eastern India: Geochemical evidence for ocean–continent convergence

Precambrian mafic magmatism is an important global episode which played a significant role in the crustal evolution. In India, Singhbhum Craton being the oldest craton, witnessed significant occurrences of Precambrian geological activity, marked by several episodes of volcanism, plutonism, sedimentation spanning from Palaeoarchean to Mesoproterozoic age. Here we present petrological and geochemical characteristics of Precambrian mafic volcanic rocks (occurring in western Iron Ore Group (IOG), Singhbhum Craton, eastern India) to evaluate their petrogenetic aspects, tectonic setting, and magma generation. The mafic volcanic rocks are porphyritic in nature with the phenocrysts of plagioclase and groundmass composed of clinopyroxene, plagioclase, ilmenite, and volcanic glass. These rocks are mostly tholeiitic, sometimes with a transitional behaviour towards calc‐alkaline nature and display basalt‐basaltic andesite affinity. These mafic volcanic rocks also preserve geochemical signatures (high Nb/U, Nb/La, [Nb/Th]pm ratios) in support of Nb‐enriched basalts and are classified as Nb‐enriched basalts (NEB; Nb &gt; 7 ppm) and high‐Nb basalts (HNB; Nb &gt; 20 ppm) on the basis of Nb concentrations and mantle normalized Nb/La ratios (&gt;0.5). The NEBs and HNBs are marked by lesser magnitude of negative Nb anomalies with high (Nb/Th)pm, (Nb/La)pm, and Nb/U ratios as compared to normal arc basalts. Several major element oxides, trace elements, and selected element ratios (like SiO2, CaO/Al2O3, Y, V/Cr, Zr/Nb, and ∑REE) show systematic variations with MgO which suggests role of magmatic fractionation. Chondrite‐normalized REE patterns for NEB and HNB rocks exhibit uniform LREE enrichment with distinct Eu negative anomalies while primitive mantle‐normalized incompatible trace element patterns reflect enrichment in LILE and LREE with prominent Nb‐Ta anomalies. Different HFSE ratios corroborate a subduction related setting for magma generation formed by ∼10%–20% melting in the domain of garnet lherzolite. Relative enrichment of LILE and LREE with depleted HFSE characteristics attest a garnet‐bearing mantle source and melt extraction with garnet in the residue. Geochemical signatures suggest that the genesis of NEB and HNB is attributable to slab‐melting and wedge hybridization processes during matured stages of subduction. Selected incompatible trace element ratios for the studied mafic volcanic rocks invoke an enriched (EM1‐EM2 type) mantle source and unequivocally suggest effects of continental crustal assimilation of the parent magma. Liquid immiscibility has played an important role as a differentiation mechanism leading to presence of high and low FeO types. The IOG mafic volcanic rocks preserve distinct geochemical signatures of matured stage of subduction, slab melting, crustal contamination and magma generation at an Archean ocean–continent convergent margin setting.