Lu-Hf Isotope Systematics Research Articles

Optical-spectroscopic and isotope-geochemical characteristics of zircons from diamond-bearing placers in Yakutia as indicators of diamond ore bodies

Research subject. Zircon grains from diamond placers of the Molodo and Ebelyakh rivers of the Yakut Arctic. Aim. To study the indicator characteristics of zircon to determine sources of diamonds and ways of their transfer to placers; to analyze optical-spectroscopic and isotope-geochemical parameters of zircon grains, their microelemental, U-Pb, and Lu-Hf isotope composition. Materials and methods. A LA-ICP-MS analysis of the U-Pb isotopic and trace element composition of zircon was carried out using a NexION 300S mass spectrometer with an NWR 213 attachment. An analysis of the Lu-Hf isotope system was carried out using a Neptune Plus mass spectrometer with an NWR 213 attachment, located in a room of cleanliness class 7 ISO at the Geoanalitik Center for Collective Use (IGG Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Ekaterinburg). Raman spectra were obtained using a LabRAM HR800 Evolution confocal spectrometer. CL spectra were obtained using a Jeol JSM6390LV scanning electron microscope equipped with a Horiba H-CLUE iHR500 attachment. Results. The local optical spectroscopic characteristics (Raman spectra and catholuminescence) of zircon grains were established, which made it possible to substantiate the conclusion about their high crystallinity and homogeneity (monochrony), as well as to select international zircon standards with similar characteristics for use in LA-ICP-MS analysis to ensure similar conditions for evaporation of the substance and fractionation parameters of the U and Pb elements. LA-ICPMS data on the microimpurity, U-Pb and Lu-Hf isotopic composition of zircon grains from diamond placers, as well as the dose values of their self-irradiation, are presented. Conclusions. The obtained U-Pb dating contributes to reconstructing a more precise history, character, and sequence of manifestation of kimberlite magmatism, tectonic processes, and migration routes of kimberlite material and diamonds across the Siberian craton, within the Yakut kimberlite province.

Testing in-situ apatite Lu–Hf dating in polymetamorphic mafic rocks: a case study from Palaeoproterozoic southern Australia

In mafic systems where primary mineral assemblages have witnessed moderate- to high-temperature hydrous overprinting and deformation, little is known about the retentivity of the Lu–Hf isotopic system in apatite. This study presents apatite laser-ablation Lu–Hf and U–Pb geochronology, zircon geochronology, and detailed petrological information from polymetamorphic mafic intrusions located in the central-western Gawler Craton in southern Australia, which records an extensive tectonometamorphic history spanning the Neoarchaean to the Mesoproterozoic. Zircon records magmatic crystallisation ages of c. 2479–2467 Ma, coinciding with the onset of the c. 2475–2410 Ma granulite-facies Sleafordian Orogeny. The amphibole-dominant hydrous assemblages which extensively overprint the primary magmatic assemblages are hypothesised to post-date the Sleafordian Orogeny. The Lu–Hf and U–Pb isotopic systems in apatite are used to test this hypothesis, with both isotopic systems recording significantly younger ages correlating with the c. 1730–1690 Ma Kimban Orogeny and the c. 1590–1575 Ma Hiltaba magmatic event, respectively. While the early Mesoproterozoic apatite U–Pb ages are attributed to thermal re-equilibration, the older Lu–Hf ages are interpreted to reflect re-equilibration facilitated primarily by dissolution-reprecipitation, but also thermally activated volume diffusion. The mechanisms of Lu–Hf isotopic resetting are distinguished based on microscale textures and trace element abundances in apatite and the integration of apatite-amphibole textural relationships and temperatures determined from the Ti content in amphibole. More broadly, the results indicate that at low to moderate temperatures, apatite hosted in mafic rocks is susceptible to complete recrystallisation in rocks that have weak to moderate foliations. In contrast, at higher temperatures in the absence of strain, the Lu–Hf system in apatite is comparatively robust. Ultimately, the findings from this study advance our understanding of the complex role that both metamorphism and deformation play on the ability of mafic-hosted apatite to retain primary Lu–Hf isotopic signatures.

Geochemical Characteristics, Zircon U-Pb Ages and Lu-Hf Isotopes of Pan-African Pegmatites from the Larsemann Hills, Prydz Bay, East Antarctica and Their Tectonic Implications

Prydz Bay is an important part of the Pan-African high-grade tectonic mobile belt. The focus of this investigation, by applying zircon LA-ICP-MS U-Pb geochronology, zircon Lu-Hf isotope systematics, and whole-rock geochemistry, is on Pan-African pegmatites in the Larsemann Hills of Prydz Bay, East Antarctica, their association with country rocks, and the formation conditions. Based on the obtained results, it is concluded that the pegmatites exhibit elevated levels of silica and alkali and possess peraluminous features. These pegmatites originated during the late Neoproterozoic–Early Cambrian (Pan-African) event, specifically in the D2–D4 stages. The D2 stage occurred between 546 and 562 Ma, followed by D3-stage pegmatites around 534 Ma. The pegmatites from the D2–D3 stages are considered to originate from Paleoproterozoic crustal materials, while there are at least two phases of pegmatites in the D4 stage (~517 Ma and ~521 Ma). The D4-1 pegmatite (~521 Ma) suggested both Paleo–Mesoproterozoic crustal origin, perhaps connected to extension. The D4-2 pegmatite (~517 Ma) originated from the crust layers. In the Larsemann Hills, Pan-African pegmatites formed in a recurring regime of tension. Therefore, the obtained data elucidate that a Pan-African stretching process might have occurred in Prydz Bay.

U-Pb zircon ages and Lu-Hf isotope systematics across northwestern Mexico: implications for Cretaceous to Paleocene tectonomagmatic evolution during Farallon subduction

ABSTRACT This study presents U-Pb zircon ages and Lu-Hf zircon isotope data for Cretaceous-Paleocene plutonic rocks along a W-E transect in northwestern Mexico. These data are combined with tectonic reconstruction that restores Late Cenozoic extensional deformation and shows the position of magmatism at 36 Ma. Zircon U-Pb ages results span from 142 to 58 Ma and demonstrate that the continental arc migrated northeastward at 1–2.5 km/Myr. These rates are slower than previously interpreted, but consistent with landward arc migration rates observed in the Andes. Weighted mean initial epsilon hafnium (εHf(t)) values of plutonic rocks along the transect range from + 8.8 to −9.1. The heterogeneity in the zircon εHf(t) is spatially related to the pre-Cretaceous basement provinces that the intrusive rocks were emplaced into. Zircon εHf(t) values of western Baja California display positive values ranging from + 8.8 to + 2.6 suggesting they were formed from a moderately depleted mantle and were emplaced into the Guerrero-Alisitos-Vizcaino terrane. Zircon εHf(t) values in the eastern part of Baja California and most of Sonora are heterogeneous ranging between −0.7 and −9.1 and may be formed from a relatively slightly more evolved mantle source and end up more evolved after crustal assimilation of metasediments. Zircon εHf(t) values ranging from + 8.7 to + 2.9 in Chihuahua are consistent with a depleted-mantle derived melt and assimilation of Grenville lithospheric province. Our results highlight how Hf isotopic signatures help to constrain the pre-Cretaceous basement configuration in northwestern Mexico despite the few exposed outcrops along the transect.

Zircon U-Pb-Hf isotope evidence for juvenile Penokean sources (ca. 1.9 Ga) in the SW Grenville Province

The Proterozoic evolution of Laurentia involved intermittent orogens and arc-related crustal growth along a modern-style convergent margin, termed the Great Proterozoic Accretionary Orogen (GPAO). The major lithotectonic provinces of the GPAO in the United States are exposed as telescoped equivalents within the thrust stack of the Grenville Province in Canada. We report zircon UPb and LuHf isotope analyses for two orthogneisses and one quartzite from Archean and Paleoproterozoic domains in the gneiss belt of the SW Grenville Province, Canada. The data constrains Paleoproterozoic crustal growth and sedimentation for this part of the Laurentian margin. The orthogneisses have similar zircon UPb and LuHf isotope systematics that reflect igneous reworking (ca. 1700–1660 Ma) of a Penokean aged (ca. 1.9 Ga) depleted mantle derived source, along with metamorphic reactivation at both ca. 1.45 Ga and during the Grenville Orogeny (1.2–1.0 Ga). The quartzite has a bimodal Paleoproterozoic (2.1–1.8 Ga) and Archean (> 2.5 Ga) detrital zircon age spectrum. The Paleoproterozoic detrital zircon grains have a wide range of Hf(t) compositions (εHf(t) = −12.5 to 10) reflecting co-eval interaction of Archean and depleted Paleoproterozoic sources, contrasted by a more restricted range for the Archean population (εHf(t) = −7 to 4). The new data support the presence of reworked ca. 1.9 Ga depleted mantle sources in the Paleoproterozoic Parautochthon, which extend further east than previously thought. They also identify correlations amongst detrital zircon age spectra and Hf isotope compositions in quartzites from different locations of the Archean Parautochthon.

Xenocrystic zircon in Central New York State Kimberlites record Neoproterozoic disturbance of Grenville Basement rocks

Zircon grains from two central New York State (USA) Mesozoic kimberlite dikes intruding Middle and Upper Devonian sedimentary rocks were analyzed for UPb and LuHf isotopes, and trace elements, and were derived from different parts of the continental crust and/or upper mantle. Zircon from the Six Mile Creek (SMC) kimberlite has variable physical properties and “felsic” chondrite normalized REE patterns, and yields dates (321–1732 Ma) compatible with entrainment of sedimentary xenoliths during accent through the upper crust. In contrast, zircon from the Taughannock Creek (TAG) kimberlite have near concordant UPb dates that are distributed between intercept ages of 572 ± 25 and 960 ± 20 (2σ) Ma (MSWD = 0.61) with homogeneous LuHf systematics and 176Lu/177Hf ratios <0.0001. Examination in CL reveal TAG zircon grains vary in internal zoning and structures, but they are geochemically and isotopically similar. Their evolution includes early Neoproterozoic (ca. 950 Ma) granulite-facies metamorphism in equilibrium with garnet growth (flat to negative sloping HREE patterns and Ti-in-zircon temperatures >900 °C) during the final assemblage of the supercontinent Rodinia, followed by subsequent Pb-loss, resulting in a discordant array and decoupling of the UPb and LuHf isotopic systems prior to entrainment. Concordant zircon UPb dates, anchoring the lower intercept, yield an age of 596 ± 7 (2σ) Ma for the timing of Pb-loss. This most likely occurred in a zone of rifting and mafic magmatism beneath Central New York and Pennsylvania during the opening of the Iapetian Ocean.

Implications of Nd isotopic mapping for crustal composition and metallogenesis in the Sanjiang orogenic belt (SW China)

The Sanjiang orogenic belt, located in southwestern China and the southeastern Tibetan Plateau, includes a variety of economically important metal deposits. Previous studies have focused on Lu-Hf isotopic mapping to suggest its lithospheric architecture and mineralization. In this study, we provide the results of Nd isotopic mapping and compare them with the results of Hf isotopic mapping based on the similarity of Sm-Nd and Lu-Hf isotope systems, which indicate three juvenile domains with high εNd(t) and young Nd model ages within the Eastern Qiangtang-Simao terrane, while presenting negative εNd(t) values over the entire horizon. The very negative εNd(t) and old Nd model ages found in the Tengchong-Baoshan terrane and Changning-Menglian suture suggest that these terranes are old and might be reworked. The Nd isotopic mapping of the Sanjiang orogenic belt also suggests a relationship between different lithospheric architectures and the locations of distinct ore deposits. Porphyry-skarn Cu–Mo–(Au) deposits occur in the juvenile crust, which has relatively high εNd(t) (−3.3–5.1) and young TDM ages, whereas skarn and hydrothermal vein-type W–Sn deposits and Pb‒Zn‒Cu‒Ag deposits are located in the low-εNd(t) area.

Relict Mesoarchean (2.99–2.94 Ga) metamorphism overprinted by late Neoarchean tectonothermal event(s) from the Sukma Group supracrustal rocks, Bastar craton, India: Evidence from new Lu-Hf and Sm-Nd garnet isochron and Th-U-total Pb monazite ages

Mesoarchean metasupracrustal successions can preserve evidence of tectonothermal reworking involving Paleoarchean felsic crust. Paleoarchean tonalite and trondhjemite of the Bastar craton, central India contain remnants of amphibolite-facies meta-supracrustal rocks of the Sukma Group, which likely represents the oldest Archean terrestrial sedimentary rocks. In order to constrain the time of metamorphic events combined garnet Lu-Hf and Sm-Nd geochronology and Th-U-total Pb dating of texturally preserved monazite from garnet-bearing metapsammite samples, representative of cover rocks overlying orthopyroxene-bearing tonalite basement, were conducted. Relics of an earlier garnet porphyroblast-forming metamorphic stage 1 (M1) developed at upper amphibolite-to granulite-facies conditions, are texturally distinct from the widespread metamorphic stage 2 (M2) marked by the garnet-breakdown to cordierite-anthophyllite symplectite. The M2-stage conditions, at ∼ 650–700 °C and ∼ 5.7 kbar, in the metasupracrustal remnants, are similar to those in garnet-amphibole-bearing quartzite and also as inferred from associated calc-silicate gneiss. Samarium-Nd chronology on whole-rock and porphyroblastic garnet fractions from three garnet-bearing quartzite samples yielded a weighted mean age of 2990 ± 10 Ma whereas Lu-Hf isotopic systematics on the same garnets from two of these quartzite samples yielded a weighted mean age of 2940 ± 31 Ma. Superposed Late Neoarchean M2 stage tectonothermal events include mylonitization of a ∼ 3.5 Ga basement tonaliteat 2525 ± 20 Ma and garnet formation within a Fe-rich quartzite at 2413 ± 21 Ma, as constrained from Sm-Nd isochron ages and similar to the in-situ weighted mean chemical age of 2367 ± 19 Ma of monazite included within M2-stage symplectitic cordierite around the older M1-stage garnet. The relict 2.99–2.94 Ga mid-crustal amphibolite-to granulite-facies M1 metamorphic assemblages stabilized within metasupracrustal rocks, formed in response to crustal thickening during Mesoarchean convergent tectonics, and were likely related to amalgamation of Paleoarchean crustal fragments.

A Mesoproterozoic to Jurassic history of continental eclogites from the Guatemala Suture Zone–implications for a peri-Amazonian ancestry

Cretaceous continental eclogites of the Chuacús Complex (Guatemala Suture Zone) contain an extensive record spanning more than 1.1 Ga. In this study, we combine U-Pb zircon geochronology, Sm-Nd and Lu-Hf isotope systematics, and geochemistry with field observations to determine the origin of eclogite protoliths. Mafic precursors are multiple comprising Ectasian to Middle Jurassic rocks originated in convergent, within-plate, and continental rift settings. Eclogites with estimated ca. 1.3 Ga protolith ages display chemical and isotopic features suggesting that mafic precursors formed in an extensional arc setting. These rocks are part of a complexly folded gneiss sequence (El Chol unit) that underwent pervasive perturbation of the zircon U-Pb system during a polymetamorphic evolution. One generation of OIB-like protoliths yield crystallization ages of 1.1–1.0 Ga, were derived from an enriched mantle source, and belong to a bimodal igneous assemblage (Cubulco unit) related to intraplate magmatism. An additional eclogite with OIB characteristics is part of a considerably younger bimodal suite (Agua Caliente unit) emplaced at ca. 228 Ma during a renewed pulse of within-plate activity. The youngest eclogite protoliths crystallized at ca. 168–162 Ma and represent E-MORB-type metabasites derived from a depleted mantle source and contaminated with variable amounts of crustal material. Hence, the geological record of the Chuacús eclogites includes evidence for: (1) extensional magmatism in a pre-Rodinian continental arc setting, (2) Stenian intraplate magmatism compatible with global large igneous province activity around Rodinia, (3) the initial breakup of western equatorial Pangea during the Late Triassic, and (4) the consequent Middle Jurassic rifting of Middle America terranes from the northwestern Gondwana margin. These data imply that the internal continental massif of the Guatemala Suture Zone may have evolved from a peri-Amazonian crust in the same way as other basement inliers of Mexico and the Northern Andes formerly adjoined within Pangea.

Reworking of aged mafic crust in a Palaeoarchaean layered complex inferred from coupled Sm-Nd and Lu-Hf isotope systematics, Stolzburg Complex, Barberton Greenstone Belt, South Africa

The Stolzburg Complex is a prominent and well-preserved Palaeo- to Mesoarchaean layered ultramafic-mafic complex in the vicinity of the Barberton Greenstone Belt. Whole rock Sm-Nd, Lu-Hf and 142Nd isotopic data obtained from a variety of lithologies, and augmented by major and trace element geochemistry, are presented to examine petrogenesis, magma source composition, and mantle differentiation as well as the geodynamic setting of emplacement. Geochemically, all samples are characterized by unfractionated normalized trace element patterns (La/Luchond. = 0.7–2.3, La/Gdchond. = 0.6–1.7, Sm/Luchond. = 0.9–1.4) associated with weak HFSE anomalies (Nb/[0.5Th + 0.5La]PRIMA = 0.5–2.3). Trace element concentrations vary as a function of mineralogy, but differences in trace element compositions are unsystematic across lithologies. The coherence of trace element characteristics is consistent with a common mantle source that underwent moderately large degrees of melting at mantle pressures within the spinel stability field. Whole rock Sm-Nd and Lu-Hf data yield well-defined apparent isochrons corresponding to ages of 3367 ± 62 (n = 12, MSWD = 1.5) and 3396 ± 36 (n = 11, MSWD = 2.1), respectively. Initial Hf and Nd isotopic compositions vary from +3.3 to +5.7 and + 0.9 to +1.7, respectively, indicative of derivation from slightly to moderately depleted mantle source(s). Isochron ages and a regressed initial Hf isotopic composition of +4.0 ± 0.9 (at 3.4 Ga) contrast with an established U-Pb emplacement age (zircon, titanite) of 3.25 Ga and εHf values for zircon of −2.5 to +3.0. Hydrothermal alteration or weathering, incorporation of evolved pre-existing (continental) crust and fractionation by high-pressure phases prior to melt extraction can all be ruled out to have significantly affected isotope systematics. Protracted magma chamber activity and non-synchronous emplacement of unrelated gabbroic magmas also fail to fully account for the discrepancy between whole rock and mineral age and isotopic data. Instead, the coherence in apparent isochron ages and variability of initial Hf and Nd isotopic composition is adequately explained by reworking (partial or near-complete remelting) of aged mafic-ultramafic (likely oceanic) crust in staging chambers with compositions indistinguishable from newly formed magmas. Thus, apparent isochrons represent mixing lines and do not record timing of crystallization. A subset of samples was also analyzed for 142Nd isotopic compositions to trace preserved mantle heterogeneities caused by early Archaean crust-mantle differentiation. The results (μ142Nd = −2.3 ± 2.2 to +1.7 ± 2.1) are not resolvable from the modern mantle value, indicating that 142Nd-enriched or depleted mantle reservoirs had not remained isolated from convective homogenization in the asthenosphere, or the volume of mantle underlying the layered complex was too small to sample mantle heterogeneities. The Stolzburg Complex was possibly emplaced in ancient oceanic lithosphere, followed by pervasive but inhomogeneous Ca-metasomatism as documented by exposed rodingites.

Large-scale replacement of ancient mantle lithosphere during supercontinent assembly: Evidence from the South China Craton

The modification and destruction of the sub-continental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) has been identified in numerous studies. However, what principally controls the susceptibility and extent of destruction of the SCLM and how this leads to the corresponding variation of the overlying crust remain long-standing issues. Here we provide an integrated study of petrology, mineralogy, and geochemistry, including highly siderophile element (HSE) abundances and whole-rock and/or mineral Os-Hf-Sr-Nd isotopic compositions of mantle peridotite xenoliths from Hainan Island, together with a compiled dataset from the eastern South China Craton (SCC) to investigate the mechanism and timing of replacement and destruction of the SCLM. The mantle xenoliths from the eastern SCC are overall more fertile than cratonic lithospheric mantle, and have generally experienced various extents of metasomatic enrichment, including carbonate and silicate melt metasomatism. In addition, the absence of Archean ages and compositional or temporal stratification of the SCLM beneath the eastern SCC indicates that the Archean lithospheric mantle may have been replaced/reworked and has essentially vanished, hence the present underlying lithospheric mantle is a relatively new and young lithospheric mantle. The formation time of the SCLM underneath Hainan Island constrained by both the ReOs and LuHf isotopic systems is late Mesoproterozoic (∼1.2 Ga), largely consistent with the Meso- to Neoproterozoic peak of whole-rock TRD ages (0.9–1.3 Ga) of the refractory mantle peridotites in the compiled dataset. This age distribution can be reconciled with the assembly time of the Rodinia supercontinent, indicating a close linkage between the replacement of large-scale lithospheric mantle via mantle convection erosion and regional continental amalgamation. Meanwhile, the relative location to the plate margins influences the preservation of the cratonic mantle. The SCLM located at the plate margin (e.g., eastern SCC compared to western SCC), where destructive processes frequently occur, is susceptible to destruction, whereas that within the plate interior is likely to remain relatively intact.

Constraints on Paleoproterozoic crustal growth from Birimian Supergroup lavas of the Bui belt (Ghana) in the West African Craton

The volcano-metasedimentary Bui belt in Ghana is one of the lesser known Birimian belts of the West African Craton that provide constraints on Paleoproterozoic crustal growth. This study presents the first major, trace element and Nd-Hf isotope data for the mafic suite of the Bui belt to constrain their petrogenesis and geodynamic setting. Although alteration is prevalent, the volcanic, volcaniclastic and plutonic rocks show tholeiitic signatures, with Mg# 35–65. Chondrite-normalised REE patterns are mainly flat, with slight LREE enrichment or depletion, and multi-element diagrams show Th and LREE depletion relative to other immobile incompatible trace elements. These features suggest derivation from a moderately depleted mantle source. Whole rock Sm-Nd isotope data yields an errorchron at ca. 2.2 Ga, with an initial εNd of +3.4 but the Lu-Hf isotopic system appears to be disturbed. The lack of arc related geochemical signatures (absence of negative Nb-Ta and Ti peaks, a nearly flat to depleted REE pattern) in the Bui mafic suite, together with the volcanic-sedimentary rock association, point towards magma generation in an oceanic plateau or divergent setting similar to a mid-ocean ridge, contrasting with the subduction setting that has been proposed for most other instances of Birimian magmatism in the West African Craton.

Evolution of the Gállojávri ultramafic intrusion from U-Pb zircon ages and Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd and Lu-Hf isotope systematics

The Karasjok–Central Lapland Greenstone Belt is one of the largest Palaeoproterozoic greenstone belts in the Fennoscandian Shield and includes multiple (ultra)mafic intrusions, some with notable ore reserves, formed during three episodes at 2.44, 2.22 and 2.05 Ga. This study presents new mineralogical, geochronological and isotopic data for the Gállojávri ultramafic intrusion, in the Karasjok Greenstone Belt, northern Norway. Previous petrogenetic modelling suggests that the intrusion was emplaced as a conduit system open for influx of melt with signs of polybaric fractionation and assimilation. Zircon U-Pb geochronology yields an age of 2051 ± 8 Ma, interpreted to reflect magmatic crystallisation. Large variations in isotopic signature over decimetres to metres indicate incomplete magma mixing. In bulk samples, εNd(t) ranges from −15 to 4. Zircon εHf(t) ranges from −14 to −1. Bulk 87Sr/86Sr(t) shows an apparent range from 0.5041 to 0.7072: the anomalously low values and general alteration indicates that 87Sr/86Sr is non-primary, whereas the less mobile Sm-Nd/ Lu-Hf systems are interpreted to represent primary magmatic signatures. We ascribe the large variations in the Nd and Hf isotopic signatures to local melting or dissolution of xenoliths and influx of variably contaminated melt into the semi-consolidated Gállojávri magma chamber, consistent with a conduit model involving variable replenishment and crustal interaction. The most evolved isotopic signatures cannot be accounted for by interaction with the local Archaean basement, indicating the presence of unidentified crustal components at depth. The Gállojávri intrusion shows many petrogenetic similarities to other c. 2.05 Ga (ultra)mafic intrusions in the Central Lapland Greenstone Belt.

Sr-Nd-Hf Isotopic Disequilibrium During the Partial Melting of Metasediments: Insight From Himalayan Leucosome

Radiogenic isotopes of granitoids are widely applied to fingerprint the source of granitoids and study the magma mingling and assimilation processes, aiming to decipher the planetary differentiation. This weapon is based on the assumption that crustal melts inherit the radiogenic isotopes of protoliths. However, complicated melting processes in the crust would drive the radiogenic isotopes of melt away from the source, thus calling for a clear understanding of the behaviors of radiogenic isotopes during crustal melting. This study investigated the joint behavior of Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd, and Lu-Hf isotope systems during the melting of metasediments. Leucosome, schist, and leucogranite samples were collected from the Nyalam, South Tibet, where the leucosome was produced by muscovite dehydration melting of metapelites. Results show that the leucosome has a broad range of Sr-Nd-Hf isotopes (87Sr/86Sri: 0.763,48–0.875321, εNd(t): 14.6–11.6, εHf(t): 15.0–4.4) that deviate from the metasediments. We attributed it to the non-modal or disequilibrium melting of metapelites. The variation of Sr isotopes of leucosome is formed due to preferential entry into the melt of muscovite relative to plagioclase during melting. The changing 87Sr/86Sri and 87Rb/86Sr of leucosome define an errorchron at ∼ 500 Ma indicating an early Paleozoic tectono-thermal event supported by the U-Pb age of zircon cores (∼460 Ma) in the leucosome. The Nd isotopes of leucosome are mainly controlled by the preferential dissolution of apatite relative to monazite. The inadequate dissolution of zircon caused more depleted initial Hf isotopes compositions in the leucosome than the source. However, the leucosome with a higher crystallization temperature has radiogenic isotopic composition closer to the source. It indicates that the melting temperature greatly affects the isotope equilibrium between source and melt.

New data on the trace element composition and Lu-Hf isotopic system of zircons from the Early Cambrian granites of the Ufaley block (Middle Urals): a step to the correction of geodynamic concepts

Research subject. Composition and isotopic parameters of zircons and their host granites of the Bitim complex, localised in the eastern part of the Ufaley block (Middle Urals).Materials and methods. The determination of trace element composition and Lu-Hf isotope system in zircons was carried out by LA-ICP-MS (the “Geoanalitik” shared research facilities of the IGG UB RAS, Ekaterinburg).Results and conclusions. The images and geochemical features of the main zircon population from granites confirm their magmatic genesis and minimal alteration, which proves previously defined Vendian- Cambrian (520 ± 9 Ma) age for the granites. Younger zircons (401–459 Ma) differing in composition from the older ones, were formed during subsequent tectonic-thermal activity, possibly under the fluid action. The mixed mantle-crustal nature of substrate for the granite melting is indicated by specific isotopic parameters (87Sr/86Sr = 0.703389, εHf(t)aver = +6.3) and a number of characteristic ratios for zircons and granites. The geodynamic concepts of the granite formation settings of the Bitim complex are corrected: in the Vendian–Early Cambrian, a transform-type margin has developed in this sector, the divergent movements on which have been accompanied by a break in the continuity of the crust and the intrusion of a deep mantle diapir; the participation of the slab substance in the magma generation might also be assumed.Conclusions. The results obtained can be used for the geological mapping and correction of a general geodynamic scheme for the junction zone between the Ural Mobile Belt and the East European platform.

Crustal modelling from Pan-African granites of the Colomine Gold District, SE Cameroon: Insights from zircon U-Pb dating and Lu-Hf isotope systematics

The Neoproterozoic Pan-African Orogeny in the Adamawa-Yadé domain (AYD) of Cameroon is characterized by intense magmatism of metaluminous to weakly peraluminous I-type granites spatially associated with transcurrent shear zones. This domain provides a critical geological record that is important for unravelling the regional tectonic evolution and geodynamic setting. We present new zircon U-Pb ages and Lu-Hf isotope data from pre-collisional biotite granite and porphyritic K-feldspar granite of the gold-producing Colomine district. Zircon U-Pb ages of biotite granite samples suggest emplacement at 727 ± 8 Ma and at 671 ± 6 for the porphyritic K-feldspar granite. Metamorphic-hydrothermal events between 600 and 550 Ma resulted in Pb-loss of most dated zircons. Lu-Hf isotope data of zircon grains form the porphyritic K-feldspar granite with ϵHf(t) values of −28.7 to −22.6 and TDMc ages of 2.4–2.1 Ga overlap with those of the biotite granite (ϵHf(t) values of −29.4 to −19.6; TDMc ages of 2.5–1.9 Ga). Depleted mantle model ages and ϵHf(t) values suggest that the granites were derived from crustal reworking of older Archean to Paleoproterozoic crust with minor mixing from a juvenile component during the Pan-African. The formation of these pre-collisional granites is interpreted as related to accretion tectonics that started around 750 Ma and incorporating tectonic domains of the Central African Fold belt, namely, the NW Cameroon domain, Mayo-Kebbi domain and the Adamawa-Yade domain.

Forging isotopically juvenile metamorphic zircon from and within Archean TTG gneiss: Whole-rock Sr-Nd-Pb and zircon U-Pb-Hf-REE constraints

The Winnipeg River terrane is one of three plutonic-gneiss terranes that contains the oldest rocks in the Archean Superior Province and is integral to understanding the evolution of Earth's largest Archean craton. We evaluate the evolution of the Winnipeg River terrane using whole-rock Sr-Nd-Pb isotope data for a suite of 17 samples of the Cedar Lake gneiss, along with U-Pb-Lu-Hf isotopes and trace elements in zircon grains from one sample. Most whole-rock Sr-Nd-Pb isotope data trend along 3.25 Ga reference isochrons, which overlap with the dominant population of ca. 3.25 Ga zircon, and are interpreted to mark the igneous crystallization of the protolith to the Cedar Lake gneiss. An older population of zircon aged ca. 3.5–3.4 Ga indicate either Hadean or Eoarchean crust was reworked at ca. 3.25 Ga. At ca. 2.7 Ga, new zircon grew with limited dissolution of older grains resulting in near-chondritic time-integrated Hf isotope signatures and low Th/U ratios relative to the older grains. As a result of the overlap between whole-rock reference isochrons at 3.25 Ga and the dominant zircon population ca. 3.25 Ga, the radiogenic Hf isotope signature of the ca. 2.7 Ga zircon grains imply Hf was recycled from non-zircon constituents within the rock rather than from external input. Additional support is drawn from elevated Nb and Ta concentrations in ca. 2.7 Ga zircon, hornblende and biotite. Our data highlights a complexity in the LuHf isotope systematics of zircon, where metamorphic zircon inherited radiogenic Hf isotope compositions as a result of internal redistribution of Hf from non-zircon phases in the rock rather than juvenile input.

Late Paleozoic adakitic magmatism in the Zogdor Cu occurrences, southern Mongolia, and their tectonic implications: New SHRIMP zircon age dating, Lu-Hf isotope systematics and geochemical constraints

The Zogdor Cu occurrences are located in the Gurvansayhan island arc terrane of southern Mongolia, which corresponds to the southern part of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB). The major porphyry type copper–gold (molybdenum) mineralized belt including Oyu Tolgoi, Tsagaan Suvarga, Shuteen, and Kharmagtai deposits are located in this terrane and were known to have formed during 372–324 Ma. The Zogdor Cu occurrences are found within this porphyry Cu-Au mineralized belt and are limitedly distributed in granitoids including granodiorite and monzogranite. In this study, we present new SHRIMP zircon U-Pb geochronology, LA-MC-ICPMS zircon Lu-Hf isotopes, and geochemical data for the granitoids in the Zogdor Cu occurrences and provide a new tectonic model including igneous activities and Cu mineralization in southern Mongolia. The emplacement ages of granodiorite and monzogranite are 329.1–326.4 Ma, and 329.9–326.1 Ma, respectively. All zircons have positive εHf values corresponding to two-stage model ages (T2DM) ranging from 581 to 331 Ma, possibly demonstrating that late Neoproterozoic to middle Carboniferous juvenile continental crust growth was derived from a depleted mantle source. Both granitoids are characterized by high Al2O3 and Sr, and low Y and Yb contents, as well as high Sr/Y and (La/Yb)N ratios, which are typical geochemical characteristics of adakites. The trace elements are characterized by an enrichment in the large ion lithophile elements (e.g., Cs, Rb, Ba, and Sr) and a depletion in the high field strength elements (e.g., Nb, P, and Ti), indicating that these granitoids intruded in subduction tectonic settings. In conclusion with data from previous studies, the intermittent igneous activities during the Cambrian to Ordovician (519–482 Ma), middle Devonian (374–363 Ma), middle to late Carboniferous (353–304 Ma), and early Permian (298–286 Ma) took place in the southern Mongolia and porphyry copper mineralizations seem to be closely related the middle Devonian and middle Carboniferous adakitic or adakite-like magmatism. The Lu-Hf isotopic results for these associated granitoids including previous Rb-Sr and Sm-Nd isotopic studies imply that the Neoproterozoic to middle Carboniferous juvenile continental growth derived from a depleted mantle source. The middle Devonian and middle Carboniferous magmatic activities triggered by the subduction of the Paleo-Asian Oceanic plate and formed the porphyry copper deposits in the southern Mongolia.

Insights into characterization and genesis of the Tieshanmiao banded iron formation deposit, China: Evidence from zircon U–Pb dating and geochemistry

The Tieshanmiao hosted by the metamorphosed Paleoproterozoic Upper Taihua Group, is a large-scale BIF–hosted Fe deposit in the southern margin of the North China Craton. The formation age, BIF type, depositional condition as well as the genesis of pyroxene–rich BIF is under heated debate. In this study, we present petrology, whole–rock geochemistry, zircon U–Pb geochronology and Lu–Hf isotope analyses on the Tieshanmiao Fe deposit. The Fe ore of the deposit can be divided into two sub-types, including banded pyroxene–magnetite quartzite (BMQ) and disseminated magnetite pyroxenite (DMP). The hanging wall rock pyroxene biotite gneiss yields an upper intercept age of 2406 ± 24 Ma, interpreted as the lower limited age for BIF deposition. The foot wall rock garnet–bearing biotite plagioclase gneiss yields a weighted mean 207Pb/206Pb age of 2739 ± 12 Ma, interpreted as its maximal depositional age. Lu-Hf isotope systematics indicates that pyroxene biotite gneiss is derived from the Paleoproterozoic mantle contaminated by the crust, and the provenance of garnet–bearing biotite plagioclase gneiss is derived from a Mesoarchean crust.The primary mineral assemblages of the pyroxene–rich Tieshanmiao Fe deposit are Fe–silicate, Ca/Mg–carbonate, ferrihydrite, and minor quartz. The BMQs have high and variable Y/Ho ratios (40–80), recording periodic alkaline hydrothermal injection that is progressively diluted by seawater, while the DMPs have low and constrained Y/Ho ratios, archiving well–supplied alkaline hydrothermal injection. We propose a REY (lanthanide elements and Y) modelling of multi–Fe sources for the Tieshanmiao BIF deposit. The BMQs are sourced from seawater and high–T hydrothermal fluid, while the DMPs are sourced from seawater, high–T hydrothermal fluids and one or several additional Fe fluxes (e.g. high-Fe dissolved riverine fluxes, low–T hydrothermal fluids or benthic Fe shuttles driven by dissimilatory iron reduction).The basic gneisses as metabasalts associated with the Tieshanmiao Fe deposit are characterized by high–Fe assay, variable LREE enrichment, relatively depletion in Nb, Ta, Zr, Ti, Y, and Th. The geochemistry of the basic gneisses shows affinities to both MORBs and volcanic–arc basalts, indicating a back–arc basin setting of the BIF deposition. It is most likely a Superior–type BIF–hosted Fe deposit, which is formed in a back–arc basin along the craton–side continental shelf.

Experiments on two techniques for the removal of barite from detrital zircon

Abstract Barite (BaSO4) is a common mineral in sandstone that must be removed during separation of detrital zircon (ZrSiO4). One widespread technique for the removal of barite exploits its lesser tenacity by milling the barite and zircon mixture in a ball mill. Here we test the extent to which such milling affects zircon and thus whether the milling could introduce bias into the detrital zircon sample. We then describe a new chemical technique for the removal of barite from detrital zircon. We find that milling a mixture of barite and zircon both breaks and causes loss of zircon grains, potentially introducing bias into a detrital zircon sample. Boiling barite in a 0.94 molar aqueous solution of sodium carbonate for 4 h converts most grains to barium carbonate. The barium carbonate grains are opaque white and thus visually distinguishable from zircon, allowing separation by hand under a stereoscopic microscope. Alternatively, the barium carbonate grains can be dissolved by boiling in 16 wt% nitric acid for 30 min. In our experiments, boiling zircon in sodium carbonate solution and/or concentrated (65 wt%) nitric acid cleaned the surfaces of and the cracks in the grains but did not visibly change the zircon surfaces in other ways. Boiling only in concentrated nitric acid did not measurably affect the U-Pb and Lu-Hf isotopic systems in zircon interiors, and boiling in a sodium carbonate solution followed by concentrated nitric acid did not detectably alter the Lu-Hf isotopic system. However, boiling in a concentrated sodium carbonate solution followed by concentrated nitric acid did disturb the U-Pb isotopic system in zircon interiors. We recognize this disturbance due to a ~0.5% reduction in 206Pb/238U dates of treated zircon. Our results highlight the importance of proper technique during zircon isolation to minimize the introduction of bias into the sample.