Zircon Geochemistry Research Articles

Evaluating igneous sources of the Taveyannaz formation in the Central Alps by detrital zircon U–Pb age dating and geochemistry

Late Palaeogene syn-tectonic volcanic products have been found in the Northern Alpine foreland basin and in the South Alpine hemipelagic basin. The source of abundant volcanic fragments is still in debate. We analyzed the geochronology and geochemistry of detrital zircons, and evaluated their temporal and genetic relationships with potential volcanic sources. The study shows that the detrital zircon U–Pb age patterns have two major age groups: a dominance (ca. 90%) of pre-Alpine zircons was found, as commonly observed in other Alpine flysch formations. These zircons apparently derived from erosion of the early Alpine nappe stack in South Alpine and Austroalpine units. Furthermore, a few Neo-Alpine zircons (ca. 10%) have ages ranging from Late Eocene to Early Oligocene (~ 41–29 Ma). Both source materials were mixed during long riverine transport to the basin margins before being re-deposited by gravity flows. These Palaeogene ages match with the activity of Peri-Adriatic magmatism, including the Biella volcanic suite as well as the Northern Adamello and Bergell intrusions. The values of REE and 176Hf/177Hf(t) ratios of the Alpine detrital zircons are in line with the magmatic signatures. We observe an in time and space variable supply of syn-sedimentary zircons. From late Middle Eocene to Late Eocene, basin influx into the South Alpine and Glarus (A) basins from the Northern Adamello source is documented. At about 34 Ma, a complete reorganisation is recorded by (1) input of Bergell sources into the later Glarus (B) basin, and (2) the coeval volcaniclastic supply of the Haute-Savoie basin from the Biella magmatic system. The Adamello source vanished in the foreland basin. The marked modification of the basin sources at ~ 34 Ma is interpreted to be initiated by a northwestern shift of the early Alpine drainage divide into the position of the modern Insubric Line.

Volcanic–plutonic connections and metal fertility of highly evolved magma systems: A case study from the Herberton Sn–W–Mo Mineral Field, Queensland, Australia

Understanding the connection between the highly evolved intrusive and extrusive systems is essential to explore the evolution of high silicic magma systems, which plays an important role in discussions of planetary differentiation, the growth of continents, crustal evolution, and the formation of highly evolved magma associated Sn–W–Mo mineral systems. To discern differences between “fertile” and “non-fertile” igneous rocks associated with Sn–W–Mo mineralization and reveal the genetic links between coeval intrusive and extrusive rocks, we integrate whole rock geochemistry, geochronology and Hf isotope signatures of igneous zircons from contemporaneous plutonic and volcanic rocks from the world-class Herberton Mineral Field of Queensland, Australia. The 310–300 Ma intrusive rocks and associated intra-plutonic W–Mo mineralization formed from relatively oxidized magmas after moderate degrees of crystal fractionation. The geochemical and isotopic features of the coeval volcanic succession are best reconciled utilizing the widely-accepted volcanic–plutonic connection model, whereby the volcanic rocks represent fractionated derivatives of the intrusive rocks. Older intrusions emplaced at 335–315 Ma formed from relatively low fO2 magmas that fractionated extensively to produce highly evolved granites that host Sn mineralization. Coeval volcanic rocks of this suite are compositionally less evolved than the intrusive rocks, thereby requiring a different model to link these plutonic–volcanic sequences. In this case, we propose that the most fractionated magmas were not lost to volcanism, but instead were effectively retained at the plutonic level, which allowed further localized build-up of volatiles and lithophile metals in the plutonic environment. This disconnection to the volcanism and degassing may be a crucial step for forming granite-hosted Sn mineralization.The transition between these two igneous regimes in Herberton region over a ∼30 m.y. period is attributed to a change from an early compressive tectonic environment with a thickened crust, to conditions of crustal thinning and lithospheric extension due to progressive slab rollback. Such tectonic transitions may provide favorable conditions for intrusion-related mineralization. Given the common occurrence of volcanic and plutonic rocks associated with Sn–W–Mo mineralization worldwide, we suggest that a combined understanding of temporal tectonic evolution and plutonic–volcanic connections can assist in assessment of regional-scale mineralization potential, which in turn can aid strategies for future ore deposit exploration.

Magma Evolution Leading to Porphyry Au-Cu Mineralization at the Ok Tedi Deposit, Papua New Guinea: Trace Element Geochemistry and High-Precision Geochronology of Igneous Zircon

Magma Evolution Leading to Porphyry Au-Cu Mineralization at the Ok Tedi Deposit, Papua New Guinea: Trace Element Geochemistry and High-Precision Geochronology of Igneous Zircon

Zircon (Hf, O isotopes) as melt indicator: Melt infiltration and abundant new zircon growth within melt rich layers of granulite-facies lenses versus solid-state recrystallization in hosting amphibolite-facies gneisses (central Erzgebirge, Bohemian Massif)

In the central Erzgebirge within the Bohemian Massif, lenses of high pressure and ultrahigh pressure felsic granulites occur within meta-sedimentary and meta-igneous amphibolite-facies felsic rocks. In the felsic granulite, melt rich parts and restite form alternating layers, and were identified by petrology and bulk rock geochemistry. Mineral assemblages representing the peak P-T conditions were best preserved in melanocratic restite layers. In contrast, in the melt rich leucocratic layers, garnet and related HP minerals as kyanite are almost completely resorbed. Both layers display differences in accessory minerals: melanosomes have frequent and large monazite and Fe–Ti-minerals but lack xenotime and apatite; leucosomes have abundant apatite and xenotime while monazite is rare. Here we present a detailed petrographic study of zircon grains (abundance, size, morphology, inclusions) in granulite-facies and amphibolite-facies felsic gneisses, along with their oxygen and hafnium isotope compositions. Our data complement earlier UPb ages and trace element data (REE, Y, Hf, U) on zircons from the same rocks (Tichomirowa et al., 2005). Our results show that the degree of melting determines the behaviour of zircon in different layers of the granulites and associated amphibolite-facies rocks. In restite layers of the granulite lenses, small, inherited, and resorbed zircon grains are preserved and new zircon formation is very limited. In contrast, new zircons abundantly grew in the melt rich leucocratic layers. In these layers, the new zircons (UPb age, trace elements, Hf, O isotopes) best preserve the information on peak metamorphic conditions due to intense corrosion of other metamorphic minerals. The new zircons often contain inherited cores. Compared to cores, the new zircons and rims show similar or slightly lower Hf isotope values, slightly higher Hf model ages, and decreased oxygen isotope ratios. The isotope compositions (Hf, O) of new zircons indicate partial Hf isotope homogenization in the melt, and melt infiltration from an external source. New zircon was most likely formed by a peritectic reaction with melt above the wet solidus (peritectic zircon). Conversely, the amphibolite-facies host gneisses lack indications of significant melt production. Pre-metamorphic zircons experienced mainly solid-state recrystallization and variable Pb loss with only minor new zircon formation. However, subtle changes in cathodoluminescence pattern, in the Hf and O isotopes, and in the Lu/Hf, Yb/Hf ratios of zircons suggest that small volumes of melt were locally present. In difference to granulites, melt was internally produced. The detection of low degree melts (inferred from zircon geochemistry) is extremely important for the rheology because these amphibolite-facies rocks could act as large scale ductile shear zones. The new zircon data support a different P-T path for closely spaced amphibolite- and granulite-facies rocks.

Long‐Term Geochemical and Geodynamic Segmentation of the Paleo‐Pacific Margin of Gondwana: Insight From the Antarctic and Adjacent Sectors

AbstractCombined zircon geochemistry and geochronology of Mesozoic volcaniclastic sediments of the central Transantarctic Mountains, Antarctica, yield a comprehensive record of both the timing and geochemical evolution of the magmatic arc along the Antarctic sector of the paleo‐Pacific margin of Gondwana. Zircon age populations at 266–183 Ma, 367–328 Ma, and 550–490 Ma correspond to episodic arc activity from the Ediacaran to the Jurassic. Zircon trace element geochemistry indicates a temporal shift from granitoid‐dominated source(s) during Ediacaran to Early Ordovician times to mafic sources in the Devonian through Early Jurassic. Zircon initial εHf shifts to more radiogenic Hf isotope compositions following the Ross Orogeny and is inferred to reflect juvenile crustal growth within an extensional arc system during progressive slab rollback. These new ages and Hf isotopic record are similar to those from the Australian sector, indicating that these regions constituted an ~3,000 km laterally continuous extensional arc from at least the Carboniferous to the Permian. Conversely, the South American sector records enriched zircon Hf isotopic compositions and compressional/advancing arc tectonics during the same time period. Our new data constrain the location of this profound along‐arc geochemical and geodynamic “switch” to the vicinity of the Thurston Island block of West Antarctica.

Three‐Dimensional Evolution of the Early Paleozoic Western Laurentian Margin: New Insights From Detrital Zircon U‐Pb Geochronology and Hf Isotope Geochemistry of the Harmony Formation of Nevada

AbstractUranium‐lead (U‐Pb) geochronology and Hafnium (Hf) isotope geochemistry of detrital zircons of the Harmony Formation of north central Nevada provide new insights into the tectonic evolution of the Late Paleozoic western Laurentian margin. Using laser‐ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, 10 arenite samples were analyzed for U‐Pb ages, and 8 of these samples were further analyzed for Hf isotope ratios. Three of the sampled units have similar U‐Pb age peaks and Hf isotope ratios, including a 1.0–1.4 Ga peak with εHf values of +12 to −3 and a 2.5–2.7 Ga peak with εHf values of +7 to −5. The remaining seven samples differ significantly from these three, but are similar to one another; having age peaks of 1.7–1.9 Ga with εHf of +10 to −20 and age peaks of 2.3–2.7 Ga with εHf of +6 to −8. The data confirm the subdivision of the Harmony Formation into two petrofacies: quartzose (Harmony A) and feldspathic (Harmony B). The three samples with 1.0–1.4 and 2.5–2.7 Ga peaks are the Harmony A, which originated in the central Laurentian craton. The other seven samples are the Harmony B, which originated in eastern Alberta‐western Saskatchewan, north of the Harmony A source. We propose that all Harmony Formation strata were deposited near eastern Alberta and subsequently tectonically interleaved with Roberts Mountains allochthon strata. We interpret that the entire package was tectonically transported south along the western Laurentian margin and then emplaced eastward onto the craton during the Late Devonian‐Early Mississippian Antler orogeny.

Age of the Late Cretaceous Ultramafic-Hosted Giant Mascot Ni-Cu-PGE Deposit, Southern Canadian Cordillera: Integrating CA-ID-TIMS and LA-ICP-MS U-Pb Geochronology and Trace Element Geochemistry of Zircon*

Age of the Late Cretaceous Ultramafic-Hosted Giant Mascot Ni-Cu-PGE Deposit, Southern Canadian Cordillera: Integrating CA-ID-TIMS and LA-ICP-MS U-Pb Geochronology and Trace Element Geochemistry of Zircon*

The Mesoarchean Tiejiashan-Gongchangling potassic granite in the Anshan-Benxi area, North China Craton: Origin by recycling of Paleo- to Eoarchean crust from U-Pb-Nd-Hf-O isotopic studies

Mesoarchean and older potassic granites are important indicators of recycling of ancient continental crust early in Earth's history. This study of integrated whole rock and zircon geochemistry and geochronology reports the age and identification of the source materials of the >200km2 Mesoarchean Tiejiashan-Gongchangling granite in the Anshan-Benxi area, North China Craton, the largest pre-Neoarchean granite domain in the craton. SHRIMP U-Pb zircon dating on 15 samples indicates the magmatic crystallization of the granites between 2.95 and 3.0Ga and reveals a superimposed tectonothermal event at ~2.91Ga. The granites are characterized by high SiO2 and K2O, low CaO, FeOt, MgO and TiO2 with peraluminuous features. They show large variations in (La/Yb)n and strong negative Eu and Ba anomalies and Nb, P and Ti depletions. Whole rock Nd and magmatic zircon Hf isotopic compositions show large variations, but with most having εNd(t) and εHf(t) values <0, with tDM(Nd) and tDM(Hf) values varying from 3.3 to 3.9Ga and 3.3 to 4.0Ga, respectively. Magmatic zircons without very strong lead loss (discordance ≤20%) have δ18O values of +3.14 to +8.39. 3.3–3.7Ga xenocrystic zircons occur in some samples. The granite formed as a result of recycling of Paleo- to Eoarchean continental material in an intracontinental environment, with little if any contribution from Mesoarchean mantle sources. The sources could be predominantly unaltered ancient gneisses, together with yet to be identified Paleo- to Eoarchean materials affected by early low temperature alteration (weathered rocks or clastic sediment).

Geochemistry, U-Pb dating, and Lu-Hf isotopes of zircon and monazite of porphyritic granites within the Jiao-Liao-Ji orogenic belt: Implications for petrogenesis and tectonic setting

Abundant porphyritic granites, including Grt-bearing and Bt-bearing porphyritic granites, and flesh-red porphyritic granites, as various scale batholiths are widely distributed within the Jiao-Liao-Ji belt (JLJB), which extends for a distance of at least 1000km, rather than being limited to sporadic outcrops in southern Liaoning and Jilin as stated in previous studies. On the basis of morphology, CL and BSE zoning patterns, and mineral inclusions of dated zircon and monazite grains from samples of various porphyritic granites, the grains exhibit evident magmatic zones with distinct cores and rims and preserve felsic mineral inclusions of Qtz+Kfs+Pl+Qtz±Ap in both domains. The magmatic zircon cores and rims from 18 dated samples yielded two distinct weighted mean age groups, from 1872±9 to 1866±7Ma and 1851±14 to 1842±10Ma, with age peaks at 1869±1.7 and 1848±2.4Ma, respectively. Similarly, the magmatic cores and rims of monazites from 10 dated samples also showed two distinct weighted mean age groups, from 1870±3 to 1864±2Ma and 1851±6 to 1842±12Ma, with age peaks at 1868±0.8 and 1847±1.2Ma, respectively. The numerous U-Pb age data of both zircons and monazites revealed that the JLJB experienced a major episode of granitic magmatism in the Paleoproterozoic with initial emplacement timing of melts at ∼1.87Ga and crystallisation end timing of melts at ∼1.84Ga as represented by the magmatic cores and rims of the zircons and monazites, respectively. A combined study of whole-rock geochemistry and zircon Lu-Hf isotopic analyses revealed that the three types of porphyritic rocks are enriched in HREE, Zr, Nb, Ga, and Y and are depleted in V, Cr, and Ni, and that most have high TFeO/MgO ratios and Zr-saturation temperatures of ∼850°C, which is suggestive of an affinity with A-type granite. Moreover, the dominant εHf(t) values of the magmatic zircons range from −4.8 to +3.3, which is consistent with those of the 2.2–2.1Ga calc-alkaline meta-granites in the JLJB. Considering the high contents of garnet, Al-rich paragneiss enclaves, and ∼1.92Ga inherited metamorphic zircons in the granites, these porphyritic rocks were most likely derived from the partial melting of the 2.2–2.1Ga calc-alkaline meta-granites with abundant involvement of Al-rich pelitic granulites from the basement of the JLJB. As the result of a newly combined study of traditional geothermobarometers and phase equilibria modelling together with geochronological U-Pb dating, a precise clockwise P-T-t path with a subsequent near isothermal decompression process has been well determined in the HP-MP granulite facies metamorphic rocks in the JLJB. Thus, the following sequence of events can be inferred. Abundant ∼2.2–2.1Ga granitic rocks and voluminous Paleoproterozoic sedimentary rocks were subducted to lower crustal depths and underwent a peak HP-MP granulite facies metamorphism at 1950–1900Ma. These granulite facies rocks were exhumed to middle crustal levels and experienced a post-peak MP-LP granulite facies metamorphism at 1875–1840Ma. The retrograde rocks continued to be exhumed to shallow crustal levels at 1830–1800Ma and were finally overprinted by late amphibolite facies retrogression. The numerous magmatic zircons and monazites from the various porphyritic granites record a distinct Paleoproterozoic granitic magmatic event with two evident age peaks of ∼1.87Ga and ∼1.84Ga, which are completely consistent with the post-peak MP-LP granulite facies metamorphism (1875–1840Ma), representing an anorogenic magmatic association formed in an extensional setting possibly resulting from mantle upwelling and lithospheric thinning and resulting in the violent partial melting of ∼2.2–2.1Ga meta-granites along with abundant Al-rich pelitic granulites. Considering these data in combination with previous whole-rock geochemistry and age data, it can be stated that similar porphyritic granites are not only limited to the entire JLJB but are also widely distributed in North and South Korea. Thus, it can be concluded that the ∼1.87–1.84Ga porphyritic granites, together with massive rapakivi granites, Kfs-megacrysts, and porphyritic monzogranites, as products of an anorogenic granitic magmatic event, may have widely formed in both the JLJB and Korean Peninsula in an extensional and thinning tectonic setting.

Tonian emplacement of ophiolites in the southern Brasiliano Orogen delimited by U-Pb-Hf isotopes of zircon from metasomatites

Key parameters in the evolution of the oceanic crust in the little-known Tonian period of the Brasiliano Orogen are presently established through the finding and characterization of zircon in chloritite and tourmalinite enclosed in serpentinite. The Ibaré and Palma ophiolites were selected for the study and both are from the juvenile São Gabriel terrane, Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil. U-Pb and Lu-Hf isotopic analyses of zircon from metasomatites and a volcanoclastic rock with laser ablation indicate similar ages in both ophiolites, respectively 726±2Ma and 722±3Ma (metasomatites) and 758±4Ma (volcanoclastic rock). Other three representative ages recorded in the metasomatites are 880±12, 836±6 and 780±5Ma, interpreted as successive serpentinization events. Mantle Hf isotope compositions of zircon in the metasomatites range from εHf=+12.1 to +1.4 and in the volcanoclastic rock the sample displays εHf=+11.7 to +6.7. Zircon geochemistry is close to the mantle array. This direct dating of ophiolites sets new limits to the evolution of the Brasiliano Orogen during formation of Gondwana. The youngest possible age for ophiolite accretion is 722Ma.

Geochemistry of zircons from basic rocks of the Korosten anorthosite-mangerite-charnockite-granite complex, north-western region of the Ukrainian Shield

The concentrations of 26 trace elements have been determined by laser ablation ICP-MS in zircons from four samples of basic rocks of the Korosten anorthosite-mangerite-charnockite-granite plutonic complex, the Ukrainian Shield. Zircons from the Fedorivka and Torchyn gabbroic intrusions and Volynsky anorthosite massif have distinctive abundances of many trace elements (REE, Sr, Y, Mn, Th). Zircons from the gabbroic massifs are unusually enriched in trace elements, while zircons from pegmatites in anorthosite are relatively depleted in trace elements. High concentrations of trace elements in zircons from gabbroic intrusions can be explained by their crystallization from residual interstitial melts enriched in incompatible elements. The zircons studied demonstrate a wide range of Ti concentrations, which reflects their temperature of crystallization: the zircons most enriched in Ti, from mafic pegmatites of the Horbuliv quarry (20–40 ppm), have the highest temperature of crystallization (845 ± 40 °C). Lower (720–770 °C) temperatures of zircon crystallization in gabbroic rocks are explained by its crystallization from the latest portions of the interstitial melt or by simultaneous crystallization of ilmenite. The Ce anomaly in zircons correlates with the degree of oxidation of the coexisting ilmenite.

U-Pb ages and geochemistry of zircon from Proterozoic plutons of the Sawatch and Mosquito ranges, Colorado, U.S.A.: Implications for crustal growth of the central Colorado province

A broad study of zircons from plutonic rocks of the Sawatch and Mosquito ranges of west-central Colorado (U.S.A.) was undertaken to significantly refine the magmatic chronology and chemistry of this under-studied region of the Colorado province. This region was chosen because it lies just to the north of the suspected arc-related Gunnison-Salida volcano-plutonic terrane, which has been the subject of many recent investigations—and whose origin is still debated. Our new results provide important insights into the processes active during Proterozoic crustal evolution in this region, and they have important ramifications for broader-scope crustal evolution models for southwestern North America. Twenty-four new U-Pb ages and sequentially acquired rare-earth element (REE), U, Th, and Hf contents of zircon have been determined using the sensitive high-resolution ion microprobe-reverse geometry (SHRIMP-RG). These zircon geochemistry data, in conjunction with whole-rock major- and trace-element data, provide important insights into zircon crystallization and melt fractionation, and they help to further constrain the tectonic environment of magma generation. Our detailed zircon and whole-rock data support the following three interpretations: (1) The Roosevelt Granite in the southern Sawatch Range was the oldest rock dated at 1,766 ± 7 Ma, and it intruded various metavolcanic and metasedimentary rocks. Geochemistry of both whole-rock and zircon supports the contention that this granite was produced in a magmatic arc environment and, therefore, is likely an extension of the older Dubois Greenstone Belt of the Gunnison Igneous Complex (GIC) and the Needle Mountains (1,770–1,755 Ma). Rocks of the younger Cochetopa succession of the GIC, the Salida Greenstone Belt, and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains (1,740–1,725 Ma) were not found in the Sawatch and Mosquito ranges. This observation strongly suggests that the northern edge of the Gunnison-Salida arc terrane underlies the southern portion of the Sawatch and Mosquito ranges. (2) Calc-alkalic to alkali-calcic magmas intruded this region approximately 55 m.y. after the Roosevelt Granite with emplacement of pre-deformational plutons at ca. 1,710 Ma (e.g., Henry Mountain Granite and diorite of Denny Creek), and this continued for at least 30 m.y., ending with emplacement of post-deformational plutons at ca. 1,680 Ma (e.g., Kroenke Granodiorite, granite of Fairview Peak, and syenite of Mount Yale). The timing of deformation can be constrained to sometime after intrusion of the diorite of Denny Creek and likely before the emplacement of the undeformed granite of Fairview Peak. Geochemistry of both whole-rock and zircon indicates that the older group of ca. 1,710-Ma plutons formed at shallower depths, and then they intruded the younger group of more deeply generated, commonly peraluminous and sodic plutons. Although absent in the Sawatch and Mosquito ranges, Mazatzal-age (ca. 1,680–1,620 Ma) plutonic rocks are present regionally. Inherited zircon components of Mazatzal-age were found as cores in some 1.4-Ga Sawatch and Mosquito Range zircons, indicating the likelihood of a relatively local source. These combined data suggest the possibility that all were produced within a continental-margin magmatic arc created as a result of southward-migrating (slab rollback?), north-dipping subduction to the south of the region. (3) Widespread Mesoproterozoic plutonism—with emplacement at various depths and exhibiting bimodal geochemistry—is recognized in 16 different samples. An older group of predominantly peraluminous, yet magnesian granitoids (e.g., granodiorite of Sayers, granite of Taylor River, and the St. Kevin Granite) were emplaced between ca. 1,450 and 1,425 Ma. These geochemical parameters suggest moderate degrees of partial melting in a low-pressure environment. Three younger metaluminous, but ferroan plutons (diorite of Grottos, diorite of Mount Elbert, and granodiorite of Mount Harvard), probably represent a final magmatic pulse at ca. 1,416 Ma. A comprehensive treatment of zircon REE and whole-rock trace-element behavior from Proterozoic rocks is scarce. Discriminant U/Yb versus Y diagrams using zircon data show that the Sawatch and Mosquito plutons are of continental origin, not oceanic. Additional bivariate diagrams incorporating cation ratio combinations of Gd, Ce, Yb, U, Th, Hf, and Eu offer refined insight into differences in fractionation trends and depth of magma generation for the various plutons. These interpretations, on the basis of zircon trace-element data, are mirrored in the whole-rock geochemistry data.

Новые данные о U-Pb-возрасте и составе циркона (SHRIMP-II, SIMS) из полиминерального рудопроявления Ичетъю (Средний Тиман)

Новые данные о U-Pb-возрасте и составе циркона (SHRIMP-II, SIMS) из полиминерального рудопроявления Ичетъю (Средний Тиман)

Regional and temporal variability of melts during a Cordilleran magma pulse: Age and chemical evolution of the Jurassic arc, eastern Mojave Desert, California

Intrusive rock sequences in the central and eastern Mojave Desert segment of the Jurassic Cordilleran arc of the western United States record regional and temporal variations in magmas generated during the second prominent pulse of Mesozoic continental arc magmatism. U/Pb zircon ages provide temporal control for describing variations in rock and zircon geochemistry that reflect differences in magma source components. These source signatures are discernible through mixing and fractionation processes associated with magma ascent and emplacement. The oldest well-dated Jurassic rocks defining initiation of the Jurassic pulse are a 183 Ma monzodiorite and a 181 Ma ignimbrite. Early to Middle Jurassic intrusive rocks comprising the main stage of magmatism include two high-K calc-alkalic groups: to the north, the deformed 183–172 Ma Fort Irwin sequence and contemporaneous rocks in the Granite and Clipper Mountains, and to the south, the 167–164 Ma Bullion sequence. A Late Jurassic suite of shoshonitic, alkali-calcic intrusive rocks, the Bristol Mountains sequence, ranges in age from 164 to 161 Ma and was emplaced as the pulse began to wane. Whole-rock and zircon trace-element geochemistry defines a compositionally coherent Jurassic arc with regional and secular variations in melt compositions. The arc evolved through the magma pulse by progressively greater input of old cratonic crust and lithospheric mantle into the arc magma system, synchronous with progressive regional crustal thickening.

The long (3.7–2.1 Ga) and multistage evolution of the Bug Granulite–Gneiss Complex, Ukrainian Shield, based on the SIMS U–Pb ages and geochemistry of zircons from a single sample

Abstract Multidisciplinary studies of zircons, rock-forming minerals and the whole-rock composition of granulite samples from the Bug Granulite–Gneiss Complex, Ukraine (including ion microprobe REE analysis, secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) U–Pb and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) Lu–Hf analysis of zircons from a single sample) have revealed three major stages in the geological evolution of the complex. (i) At 3.66 Ga, a mafic intrusion contaminated with felsic rocks formed, as evidenced by 3.74 Ga zircon xenocrysts with inclusions of plagioclase, K-feldspar and quartz. (ii) At 3.59–3.55 Ga, high-temperature and high- to moderate-pressure granulite-facies metamorphism accompanied by migmatization and deformation resulted in the formation of mafic granulites. (iii) At 2.1–2.0 Ga, metamorphic overprinting occurred, and metatrachybasaltic dykes intruded at approximately 2.0 Ga. The metamorphic mineral assemblages recorded in the dykes formed at temperatures similar to those of the 3.59–3.55 Ga metamorphism but at pressures 2–3 kbar lower. This metamorphism disturbed the Sm–Nd whole-rock system, altered the Hf isotope system of the older zircons and resulted in Pb loss in small zircon grains. This complex event history recorded in zircons from a single rock corresponds to major stages of the geological evolution of both the Dniester–Bug Province and the entire Ukrainian Shield.

Petrogenesis and metallogenic potential of the Jurassic porphyries in the northwest Zhejiang Province, South China: insights from SHRIMP zircon geochronology, geochemistry, and Sr–Nd–Hf isotopes of the Huangbaikeng ore-bearing porphyries

ABSTRACTThe northwest Zhejiang Province is a key domain for providing deep insight into the crust–mantle interaction and tectonic evolution of the South China block. In this paper, we collect geochemical, geochronological, and isotopic data of the Jurassic porphyries in this region, and investigated the Huangbaikeng ore-bearing porphyry in the Tongcun Mo–Cu deposit, using it as an example to uncover the porphyry petrogenesis and evaluate their metallogenic potential. Two varieties of the Huangbaikeng porphyry were distinguished: the medium- to coarse-grained type and medium- to fine-grained type. Zircon Sensitive High-Resolution Ion Microprobe U–Pb dating indicates that they were emplaced at 161.8 ± 2.8 and 162.7 ± 3.5 Ma, respectively, which are consistent with the molybdenite Re–Os ages of 163.9–161.8 Ma. The inherited zircons age spectrum significantly recorded a series of geological events, for example, assembly and breakup of the Columbia and Rodinia supercontinent, and the Triassic collision of Yangtze and North China blocks. Whole rock Sr–Nd and Jurassic zircon Hf isotopic data yield mostly negative εHf(t) values (0.5 to −8.4) and εNd(t) values (−0.79 to −4.82). Besides the Huangbaikeng porphyry, all the Jurassic porphyries in the northwest Zhejiang Province have a wide range of SiO2 contents (76.78–60.91 wt.%). They do not contain typical aluminous minerals (e.g. cordierite and garnet), and are mainly metaluminous to weakly peraluminous with high Na2O, low FeOT/MgO, and Zr + Nb + Ce + Y concentrations in composition. They thus fit the I-type granite definition. Some major and trace elements show strong correlations with SiO2, possibly indicating extensive fractional crystallization during their magma evolution. Tectonic discriminations imply that these plutons were likely formed in a volcanic arc regime possibly related to subduction of the Palaeo-Pacific plate. Sr–Nd–Hf isotopic data suggest a mixed source of the Mesoproterozoic crust and 30–50% mantle components. Compared with the adjacent Dexing Cu-bearing porphyies, which have more positive εHf(t) and εNd(t) values with more significant mantle components (55–70%), the Jurassic porphyries in the northwest Zhejiang Province probably lack metallogenic potential to form a giant porphyry copper deposit as Dexing.

Oxygen isotope and trace element geochemistry of zircons from porphyry copper system: Implications for Late Triassic metallogenesis within the Yidun Terrane, southeastern Tibetan Plateau

It is intriguing to investigate the generation of the magmatic system and the geochemical signatures that distinguish the ore-bearing ones from barren ones, especially by examining the oxygen isotopic and trace element compositions of zircon. The oxygen isotopic composition and trace element abundances of zircons from the mineralized Pulang porphyries and the coeval Disuga and Lannitang andesites of the Yidun Terrane, eastern Tibetan Plateau, have been determined by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) and laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA–ICP–MS) in this study, respectively. Analyzed zircons have relatively high but invariant δ18O values (~5.8‰–6.9‰) that are indicative of derivation from homogeneous mantle or mantle-derived magmas together with contribution of mature crustal materials. We propose a model for the Late Triassic magmatism in the Yidun Terrane involving magmas derived from partial melting of subduction-metasomatized mantle peridotites that subsequently experienced melting–assimilation–storage–homogenization (MASH) processes. The low calculated Ti-in-zircon temperatures (644°C–863°C, generally between 640°C and 690°C) for these zircons may be caused by the lower solidus temperature for zircon in hydrous magmas, and partly controlled by the crystallization of amphibole. Zircon grains from porphyry copper system display small negative europium anomalies (mostly Eu/Eu*>0.5), contrasting with pronounced negative Eu anomalies in zircons (mostly Eu/Eu*<0.5) associated with magmato-hydrothermal quartz-vein Cu-Mo-W/Mo-W deposits. Calculated REE compositions of the melt that was in equilibrium with zircons from porphyry copper system display depletion in the middle rare earth elements (MREE) without negative Eu anomaly, while that of zircons from magmato-hydrothermal quartz-vein Cu-Mo-W/Mo-W system show depletion in the MREE with negative Eu anomaly. It is speculated that the parental melts of zircon have decreasing magmatic oxidation state in the following sequence: porphyry copper system>magmato-hydrothermal quartz-vein Cu-Mo-W deposit>magmato-hydrothermal quartz-vein Mo-W deposit. This study suggests that zircon trace element geochemistry probably bears significant implications for elucidating the origin of the arc magmatism and guiding exploration strategies for porphyry copper deposits.

Age and geochemistry of zircon from the oldest metamorphic rocks of the Omolon Massif (Northeast Russia)

This study provides SHRIMP-RG data on zircons from garnet gedritites, the products of retrograde metamorphism of eclogite-like rocks constituting belonging to the basement of the Omolon Massif. The earliest episode recorded by oscillatory-zoned cores having high HREE and Ti contents occurred at 3.25–3.22 Ga (Paleoarchean) and is interpreted to represent an upper age limit of a metamorphic or magmatic protolith. One zircon core with a pronounced negative Eu anomaly yielded a concordant age of 2.6 Ga, which is interpreted to mark a Neoarchean episode of granite formation. The studied population of zircons provides the most distinct record of a Paleoproterozoic (1.9 Ga) event, which is marked by formation of garnet gedritites under amphibolite-facies conditions. This event is recorded by transparent recrystallization rims of preexisting large zircon grains and small newly-formed grains, which are characterized, compared with their cores, by lower crystallization temperatures and one order of magnitude lower concentrations of U, Th, and HREE, and the presence of garnet micro-inclusions.

Source and mode of the Permian Panjal Trap magmatism: Evidence from zircon U–Pb and Hf isotopes and trace element data from the Himalayan ultrahigh-pressure rocks

We present an integrated study of LA-ICP-MS U–Pb age, Hf isotopes, and trace element geochemistry of zircons from the Himalayan eclogites (mafic rocks) and their host gneisses (felsic rocks) from the Kaghan Valley in Pakistan in order to understand the source and mode of their magmatic protoliths and the effect of metamorphism. Zircons from the so-called Group I (high-pressure) eclogites yielded U–Pb mean ages of 259±10Ma (MSWD=0.74), whereas those of Group II (ultrahigh-pressure) eclogites yielded 48±3Ma (MSWD=0.71). In felsic gneisses the central or core domains of zircons yielded ages similar to those from Group I eclogites but zircon overgrowth domains yielded 47±1Ma (MSWD=1.9). Trace element data suggest a magmatic origin for Group I-derived (having Th/U ratios: >0.5) and metamorphic origin for Group II-derived (Th/U<0.07) zircons, respectively. Zircon Hf isotope data, obtained from the same dated spots, show positive initial 176Hf/177Hf isotopic ratios referred to as “ƐHf(t)” of around +10 in Group I eclogites; +7 in Group II eclogites; and +8 in felsic gneisses zircons, respectively, thus indicate a juvenile mantle source for the protolith rocks (Panjal Traps) with almost no contribution from the ancient crustal material. The similar ƐHf(t) values, identical protolith ages and trace element compositions of zircons in felsic (granites or rhyolites) and mafic (basalt and dolerite) rocks attest to a bimodal magmatism accounting for the Panjal Traps during the Permian. Later, during India–Asia collision in Eocene times, both the felsic and mafic lithologies were subducted to mantle-depths (>90km: coesite-stable) and experienced ultrahigh-pressure metamorphism before their final exhumation.

Zircon geochemistry of two contrasting types of eclogite: Implications for the tectonic evolution of the North Qaidam UHPM belt, northern Tibet

Compared to the extensively documented ultrahigh-pressure metamorphism at North Qaidam, the pre-metamorphic history for both continental crust and oceanic crust is poorly constrained. Trace element compositions, U–Pb ages, O and Lu–Hf isotopes obtained for distinct zircon domains from eclogites metamorphosed from both continental and oceanic mafic rocks are linked to unravel the origin and multi-stage magmatic/metamorphic evolution of eclogites from the North Qaidam ultrahigh-pressure metamorphic (UHPM) belt, northern Tibet.For continental crust-derived eclogite, magmatic zircon cores from two samples with U–Pb ages of 875–856Ma have both very high δ18O (10.6±0.5‰) and mantle-like δ18O (averaging at 5.2±0.7‰), high Th/U and 176Lu/177Hf ratios, and steep MREE-HREE distribution patterns (chondrite-normalized) with negative Eu anomalies. Combined with positive εHf (t) of 3.9–14.3 and TDM (1.2–0.8Ga and 1.3–1.0Ga, respectively), they are interpreted as being crystallized from either subduction-related mantle wedge or recycled material in the mantle. While the metamorphic rims from the eclogites have U–Pb ages of 436–431Ma, varying (inherited, lower, and elevated) oxygen isotopes compared with cores, low Th/U and 176Lu/177Hf ratios, and flat HREE distribution patterns with no Eu anomalies. These reflect both solid-state recrystallization from the inherited zircon and precipitation from external fluids at metamorphic temperatures of 595–622°C (TTi-in-zircon).For oceanic crust-derived eclogite, the magmatic cores (510±19Ma) and metamorphic rims (442.0±3.7Ma) also show distinction for Th/U and 176Lu/177Hf ratios, and the REE patterns and Eu anomalies. Combined with the mantle-like δ18O signature of 5.1±0.3 ‰ and two groups of model age (younger TDM close to the apparent ages and older >700Ma), two possible pools, juvenile and inherited, were involved in mixing of mantle-derived magma with crustal components. The relatively high δ18O of 6.6±0.3‰ for metamorphic zircon rims suggests either the protolith underwent hydrothermal alteration prior to the ~440Ma oceanic crust subduction, or external higher δ18O fluid activities during UHP metamorphism at ~440Ma.Therefore, the North Qaidam UHPM belt witnesses multiple tectonic evolution from Late Mesoproterozoic–Neoproterozoic assembly/breakup of the Rodinia supercontinent with related magmatic emplacement, then Paleozoic oceanic subduction, and finally transition of continental subduction/collision related to UHP metamorphism.