M1 Assemblage Research Articles

The Friningen Garnet Peridotite (central Swedish Caledonides). A good example of the characteristic PTt path of a cold mantle wedge garnet peridotite

We present pseudosections of Cr-bearing garnet peridotite that together with new mineral–chemical data allow quantification of the early PT conditions of the original lithospheric mantle assemblage (M1) of the Friningen Garnet Peridotite (FGP) located in the central/middle belt of the Seve Nappe Complex in central Sweden. Results indicate that the early, coarse grained, olivine+orthopyroxene+clinopyroxene+“high Cr” garnet assemblage (M1a) was formed at 1100±100°C and 5.0±0.5GPa. These metamorphic conditions were followed by an inferred late Proterozoic exhumation event down to 850–900°C and 1.5GPa (M1b). The latter PT estimate is based on the breakdown of high-Cr M1a garnet (Cr#=0.065)+olivine into an orthopyroxene+clinopyroxene+spinel (Cr#=0.15–0.25)±pargasite kelyphite (M1b) and the exsolution of garnet from Al-rich orthopyroxene and clinopyroxene. The M1b kelyphite is overprinted by an early-Caledonian UHPM mineral assemblage (M2; T=800°C and P=3.0GPa), equivalent to the earlier discovered UHP assemblage within an eclogitic dyke that cross-cuts FGP. In the garnet peridotite M2 is displayed by low-Cr garnet (Cr#=0.030) growing together with spinel (Cr#=0.35–0.45), both these minerals form part of the olivine+orthopyroxene+clinopyroxene+garnet+spinel+pargasite M2 assemblage. The formation of plagioclase+diopside symplectites after omphacite and breakdown of kyanite to sapphirine+albite in internal eclogite and the breakdown of M2 olivine+garnet to amphibole+orthopyroxene+spinel assemblages (M3) in garnet peridotite indicate post-UHP isothermal decompression down to 750–800°C and 0.8–1.0GPa (=M3). Multiphase solid-and fluid inclusion assemblages composed of Sr-bearing magnesite, dolomite or carbon decorate linear defect structures within M1a–b minerals and/or form subordinate local assemblages together with M2 minerals. The latter are interpreted as evidence for infiltration of early-Caledonian COH-bearing subduction zone fluids. The well-defined PTt-deformation path of the FGP resembles that of a mantle wedge garnet peridotite. The M1 assemblage originates from the base of a cold, old and thick subcontinental lithospheric mantle that is inferred to extend asymmetrically leading to extreme exhumation of FGP down to lithospheric conditions around 1.5GPa and 850–900°C. After that the FGP became incorporated into the subducting continental crust of the SNC during “early-Caledonian” subduction (M2) down to UHPM conditions (800°C/3.0GPa), subsequently followed by eduction back to sub-crustal levels. As such, FGP is the first locality in the Swedish Caledonides from which two UHP metamorphic events are described, the first event can be related to the formation of an ancient (>1.0Ga) lithosphere underneath a craton (Rodinia) and the second is of early-Caledonian age.

Prograde and retrograde evolution of eclogite from Adrar Izzilatène (Egéré-Aleksod terrane, Hoggar, Algeria) determined from chemical zoning and pseudosections, with geodynamic implications

Adrar Izzilatène in the Egéré-Aleksod terrane of the LATEA metacraton (Hoggar, Algeria) exposes one of the best preserved examples of eclogite facies metamorphism in Hoggar. Three distinct stages of metamorphic development are recognised, namely, the pre-peak stage (M1), characterised by garnet, amphibole, epidote, quartz and rutile, the peak eclogite facies stage (M2), consisting of omphacite, garnet, edenite, epidote, quartz and rutile, and the retrograde stage (M3), where initial decompression resulted in the appearance of plagioclase, the development of pargasite+plagioclase kelyphites and finally the formation of anhydrous plagioclase+diopside coronas. Porphyroblastic omphacite has a jadeite content of up to XJd=0.36, which is the highest yet observed for eclogite facies rocks from the Tuareg Shield. Garnet growth zoning patterns are characterised by flat profiles in the cores (XAlm=0.55–0.60; XPrp=0.12–0.16; XGrs=0.26–0.30) before showing a decrease in almandine to XAlm=0.45, coupled to an increase in pyrope to XPrp=0.29 and decrease in grossular to XGrs=0.26 at the rims. Calculated P–T–MH2O pseudosections show that the prograde M1 assemblage equilibrated at 13–14kbar and 580°C, before pressure and temperature increased to 19kbar and 650–700°C at fluid-saturated conditions during peak metamorphism. Retrogression involved near-isothermal decompression to 8–9kbar and 700–750°C at fluid-undersaturated conditions. Prograde-to-peak metamorphism of the Izzilatène eclogite could have involved either oceanic or continental subduction, followed by exhumation as the area was obducted towards the LATEA metacraton during the Pan-African orogeny and the assembly of Western Gondwana.

Fluid evolution of partially retrogressed pelitic granulite from the Southern Marginal Zone of the Neoarchean Limpopo Complex, South Africa: Evidence from phase equilibrium modelling

Hydration of granulites and formation of amphibolite-facies mineral assemblages are common processes in retrogressed high-grade metamorphic terranes worldwide. Here, we report new petrological data for a partially hydrated pelitic granulite from the retrograde (orthopyroxene-out) isograd developed in the Southern Marginal Zone (SMZ) of the Neoarchean Limpopo Complex in South Africa, and discuss the P–T–fluid evolution based on mineral equilibrium modelling in the NCKFMASH system. The results demonstrate the stability of the peak M1 assemblage (garnet+biotite+orthopyroxene+K-feldspar+plagioclase+quartz) at 750–900°C and 8–9kbar, and relatively dry condition of aH2O [H2O activity]=0.40–0.55. M1 was followed by near-isothermal decompression to M2 (ca. 800°C, 7.7–8.0kbar, M(H2O) [molar H2O% of the rock]=0.5–2.5mol.%) at a constant aH2O condition of 0.4–0.5 as inferred from garnet+biotite+orthopyroxene+cordierite+K-feldspar+plagioclase+quartz assemblage in the sample. The formation of anthophyllite corona around orthopyroxene and kyanite+orthoamphibole+quartz intergrowth after cordierite suggest significant interaction with an aqueous fluid during retrograde metamorphism. The T-M(H2O) pseudosection constrain the first hydration event (M3a), during which anthophyllite replaced orthopyroxene at 630–730°C and M(H2O)=3.0–3.5mol.%, to have occurred after the M2 event. Further increase in M(H2O) condition (4.5–6.0mol.%) and cooling to <630°C triggered the progress of the second hydration event (M3b) and M4 event, during which kyanite/sillimanite+orthoamphibole+quartz and garnet+kyanite/sillimanite+quartz replaced cordierite. A consistent aH2O condition of 0.2–0.3 during M3 and M4 events suggests that aH2O was buffered to lower levels by progress of the hydration reactions. Such an increase in molar H2O content in the rock with the formation of hydrous mineral assemblages after anhydrous assemblages established a retrograde isograd and zone of hydrated granulite in the SMZ. This event might be related to influx of H2O-bearing fluid along the Hout River Shear Zone (HRSZ) that marks the major crustal break between the SMZ and the adjacent Kaapvaal Craton. The aqueous fluid was probably derived from devolatilization of low-grade underthrusted greenschists in the footwall section of the HRSZ by the overriding granulites during the thrust-controlled spreading of the SMZ onto the Kaapvaal craton.

Metamorphic P–T paths of metapelitic granulites from the Larsemann Hills, East Antarctica

Through detailed textural observations, a peak M1 assemblage garnet+orthopyroxene+cordierite+K-feldspar has been identified in a structurally early Al-rich metapelitic granulite lens from the Larsemann Hills, East Antarctica. The M1 assemblage has been overprinted by M2 cordierite corona and M3 orthopyroxene+cordierite symplectite on garnet grains. Quantitative modeling for the peak M1 assemblage via the THERMOCALC program in the KFMASH system suggests that it was formed by the crossing of the univariant reaction garnet+biotite=cordierite+orthopyroxene+K-feldspar+melt under P–T conditions of 6–8kbar and 840–880°C, followed by post-peak near isobaric cooling. However, the average P–T calculations for the boron-bearing pelitic granulite indicate that peak M1 conditions reached ~9.0kbar and ~900°C, and the overprinting M2 assemblage formed under P–T conditions of ~7.0kbar and 800–850°C, reflecting a post-peak near isothermal decompression. P–T estimates show that M3 conditions reached 4–5kbar and 700–750°C. These imply that the M1 metamorphic evolution of the region displays contrasting P–T paths, while M2 to M3 evolution indicates a decompression-cooling process. The available chronological data support that the M1 metamorphic evolution occurred during the late Proterozoic (1000–900Ma) Grenvillian high-grade compression tectonic event (D1), and was accompanied by strong magmatism, showing a close affinity to the northern Prince Charles Mountains and the Rayner complex. However, the overprinted M2 to M3 metamorphic evolution formed during the early Palaeozoic (~530Ma) Pan-African high-grade tectonic events (D2–D3), and was associated with an important intracontinental reworking. This study presents an example for interpreting a complex polymetamorphic history.

Metamorphic P-T-t paths retrieved from the amphibolites, Lushan terrane, Henan Province and reappraisal of the Paleoproterozoic tectonic evolution of the Trans-North China Orogen

Garnetiferous amphibolites preserving prograde inclusion assemblages (M1) within garnet porphyroblasts, metamorphic peak assemblages (M2) and post-peak symplectitic assemblages (M3) have been found in the Lushan terrane, Henan Province, Taihua Metamorphic Complex, southernmost section of the NS-striking Palaeoproterozoic Trans-North China Orogen (TNCO). Geothermobarometric computation shows that the M1, M2 and M3 assemblages were formed under the P–T conditions of 650–730°C/4.9–8.1kbar, 740–810°C/9–10.8kbar and 750–760°C/5.0–7.7kbar, respectively, suggesting that these amphibolites record clockwise P–T paths including nearly isothermal decompression (ITD) segments similar to the west-Alpine type P–T paths, indicative of being resulted from an orogenic process. High resolution SIMS U–Pb dating of metamorphic zircons suggests that the metamorphism took place at ca. 1.95–1.75Ga. These data imply that the Palaeoproterozoic collision between the Eastern and Western Blocks of the North China Craton along the southernmost terminal of the TNCO not only started earlier, but also continued longer, than the middle and north sections of the TNCO.

New Constraints from Garnetite on the P-T Path of the Khondalite Belt: Implications for the Tectonic Evolution of the North China Craton

Garnetite pods containing >60 mol % garnet in association with garnet-bearing quartz-rich lenses are sporadically distributed in the Khondalite Belt, North China Craton. The mineral assemblages and microtextures of garnetite occurring in quartzo-feldspathic sillimanite–garnet gneiss in the Xiaoshizi area allow definition of the metamorphic history of the area. Formation of garnet poikiloblasts coupled with their enclosing and matrix minerals quartz, sillimanite, plagioclase, biotite, rutile and ilmenite defines an M1 assemblage consistent with partial melting and subsequent melt separation. Thermodynamic modeling of bell-shaped Ca zoning in garnet poikiloblasts confirms that this occurred during decompression. A retrograde M2 assemblage replacing M1 garnet or sillimanite is defined by two microdomains: coronas of Grt2 + Crd (M2a) where quartz is present, and Spl + Crd symplectite (M2b) where quartz is absent. The final metamorphic stage led to the coronal assemblage Grt3 + Opx + Crd + Pl + Bt (M3) surrounding M1 garnet. Comparison of the observed mineral proportions and compositions with the predictions of phase equilibria modeling in the NCKFMASHTO system for the effective bulk compositions, in combination with Zr-in-rutile thermometry, results in the following P–T conditions for the metamorphic events: 820–850°C (up to 950°C) and 8·5–9·5 kbar for M1; 850–865°C and 7·4–7·6 kbar for M2; 710–720°C and 6·4–6·6 kbar for M3. The clockwise P–T path thus defined for M1 to M3 evolution is interpreted to reflect the onset of extension and exhumation of the Khondalite Belt at ∼1890 Ma, following the emplacement of S-type granitoids at ∼1920–1890 Ma and ultrahigh-temperature metamorphism at ∼1920 Ma that resulted from collision of the Yinshan and Ordos Blocks at ∼1950 Ma.

Multistage gold mineralization at the Lapa mine, Abitibi Subprovince: insights into auriferous hydrothermal and metasomatic processes in the Cadillac–Larder Lake Fault Zone

The Lapa gold deposit contains reserves of 2.4 Mt at 6.5 g/t Au and is one of the few deposits located directly within the Cadillac–Larder Lake Fault Zone (CLLFZ), a first-order crustal-scale fault that separates the Archean Abitibi Subprovince from the Pontiac Subprovince to the south. Gold mineralization is predominantly hosted in highly strained and altered, upper greenschist–lower amphibolite facies mafic to ultramafic rocks of the Piche Group. Auriferous ore zones consist of finely disseminated auriferous arsenopyrite–pyrrhotite ± pyrite and native gold disseminated in biotite- and carbonate-altered wall rocks. Native gold, which is also present in quartz ± dolomite–calcite veinlets, is locally associated with Sb-bearing minerals, especially at depth ≤1 km from surface where the deposit is characterized by a Au–Sb–As association. At vertical depth greater than 1 km, gold is associated with arsenopyrite and pyrrhotite (Au–As association). The mineralogy and paragenesis of the Lapa deposit metamorphosed ore and alteration assemblages record the superposition of three metamorphic episodes (M1, M2, and M3) and three gold mineralizing events. Spatial association between biotitized wall rocks and auriferous arsenopyrite indicates that arsenopyrite precipitation is concomitant with potassic alteration. The predominant Au–As association recognized across the deposit is related to gold in solid solution in arsenopyrite as part of a pre-M2 low-grade auriferous hydrothermal event. However, the occurrence of hornblende + oligoclase porphyroblasts overprinting the biotite alteration, and the presence of porous clusters and porphyroblasts of arsenopyrite with native gold and pyrrhotite indicate an auriferous metasomatic event associated with peak M2 prograde metamorphism. Late retrograde metamorphism (M3) overprints the hornblende–oligoclase M2 assemblage within the host rocks proximal to ore by an actinolite–albite assemblage by precipitation of free gold and Sb–sulfosalts at lower P–T. The complex relationships between ore, structural features, and metamorphic assemblages at Lapa are related to the tectonometamorphic evolution of the Cadillac–Larder Lake Fault Zone at different times and crustal levels, and varying heat and fluid flow regimes. The Lapa deposit demonstrates that early, low-grade gold mineralization within the Cadillac–Larder Lake Fault Zone has benefited from late gold enrichment(s) during prograde and retrograde metamorphism, suggesting that multi-stage processes may be important to form gold-rich orogenic deposits in first order crustal-scale structures.

High-pressure garnet amphibolite from the Funaokayama unit, western Kii Peninsula and the extent of eclogite facies metamorphism in the Sanbagawa belt

Quantitative analyses of garnet-bearing epidote amphibolite (hereafter garnet amphibolite) from the Funaokayama unit, western Kii Peninsula of the Sanbagawa belt reveal a previously unrecognized high-grade part of the Sanbagawa metamorphism. Petrographic observations suggest that the garnet amphibolite underwent three stages of metamorphism (M1, M2 and M3). Records of M1 are preserved as syn-tectonic prograde-zoned garnet and its inclusions. Pseudosection modeling reproduces the observed M1 assemblage garnet + amphibolite + epidote + phengite + quartz and the growth zoning of garnet records the pressure (P)-temperature (T) evolution from 0.8 GPa, 570 °C to 1.3 GPa, 590 °C. Therefore, this garnet growth and associated deformation (D1) took place during subduction up to eclogite facies conditions. The garnet rim compositions and inclusions of epidote, titanite, rutile and quartz (5titanite + 2clinozoisite = 5rutile + 3grossular + 2quartz + H2O) give consistent peak-P estimates of 1.3-1.9 GPa. The garnet contains quartz inclusions retaining residual pressures of up to ∼ 0.7 GPa, which is as high as the values reported in well-characterized eclogite samples in central Shikoku. The inferred peak-P conditions in the eclogite facies is further supported by the occurrence of aragonite in associated pelitic schist. The assemblage hornblende + epidote + titanite + quartz + albite in the matrix and its equilibrium conditions of ∼ 0.8 GPa, 580 °C suggest decompression to the epidote-amphibolite facies (M2). The M2 minerals locally show replacement by the mineral assemblage actinolite + epidote + chlorite + titanite + calcite + quartz + albite, suggesting a partial re-equilibration in the greenschist facies (M3). M2 and M3 are synchronous with the main phase of ductile deformation during exhumation (D2). Despite the absence of the omphacite + quartz assemblage, it is likely that eclogite facies metamorphism in the Sanbagawa belt can be extended to western Kii Peninsula.

Petrotectonic framework of granulites from northern part of Chilka Lake area, Eastern Ghats Belt, India: Compressional vis-à-vis transpressional tectonics

Granulite-facies rocks occurring north-east of the Chilka Lake anothosite (Balugan Massif) show a complex metamorphic and deformation history. The M1–D1 stage is identified only through microscopic study by the presence of S1 internal foliation shown by the M1 assemblage sillimanite–quartz–plagioclase–biotite within garnet porphyroblasts of the aluminous granulites and this fabric is obliterated in outcrop to map-scale by subsequent deformations. S2 fabric was developed at peak metamorphic condition (M2–D2) and is shown by gneissic banding present in all lithological units. S3 fabric was developed due to D3 deformation and it is tectonically transposed parallel to S2 regionally except at the hinge zone of the F3 folds. The transposed S2/S3 fabric is the regional characteristic structure of the area. The D4 event produced open upright F4 folds, but was weak enough to develop any penetrative foliation in the rocks except few spaced cleavages that developed in the quartzite/garnet–sillimanite gneiss. Petrological data suggest that the M4–D4 stage actually witnessed reactivation of the lower crust by late distinct tectonothermal event. Presence of transposed S2/S3 fabric within the anorthosite arguably suggests that the pluton was emplaced before or during the M3–D3 event. Field-based large-scale structural analyses and microfabric analyses of the granulites reveal that this terrain has been evolved through superposed folding events with two broadly perpendicular compression directions without any conclusive evidence for transpressional tectonics as argued by earlier workers. Tectonothermal history of these granulites spanning in Neoproterozoic time period is dominated by compressional tectonics with associated metamorphism at deep crust.

P–T Alpine metamorphic evolution of the Monte Rosa nappe along the Piedmont Zone boundary (Gressoney Valley, NW Italy)

The pseudosection modelling of two chemical systems (both metabasic and metapelitic) allowed to reconstruct the exhumation P–T path followed by the southern slope of the Monte Rosa nappe (Upper Gressoney Valley) during the Alpine orogenesis. The metamorphic evolution of the polymetamorphic basement complex from the Monte Rosa nappe is marked by texturally distinct mineral assemblages, defining four Alpine metamorphic stages (M1 to M4) reflecting a sequence of different P–T conditions. Well preserved eclogitic boudins (M1 and M2 assemblages) were investigated to reconstruct the HP history related to the subduction phase, while re-equilibrated metapelites allowed to infer the P–T conditions attained during the development of the regional foliation (M3 and M4 assemblages). The HP stage (M1) occurred at 550–570°C and 24–27kbar and is characterised by the assemblage Omp+Grt+Lws+Phe+Qtz+Gln±Tlc in the eclogites. The M2 metamorphic stage consists of the assemblage Omp+Grt+Barr+Zo+Phe+Pg+Qtz and developed at 590–630°C and 14.5–16.5kbar suggesting a T increasing during decompression. After a further decompressional stage associated with a T decrease, the M3 tectono-metamorphic stage developed syn-kinematically with the main regional foliation S1. It is marked by the assemblage Phe+Pg+Grt+Chl+Ab/Olig+Hbl+Qtz+Rt/Ilm±Bt in metapelites and by Cam (blue-green)+Chl+Ab+Bt+Qtz+Rt in the re-equilibrated metabasite boudins. S1 developed during increasing T (from 550 to ca. 600°C) and sligthly increasing P (from 7 to 9kbar). Finally, the M4 assemblage grew as rims over the M3 minerals or overgrew the S1 regional foliation (albite porphyroblasts overgrowing the S1 foliation already defined by albite) and therefore can be considered as the final stage of the M3 stage. The P–T path proposed for the Monte Rosa nappe differs from previous works. In particular, we propose post-eclogitic decompression trajectory up to 7kbar, followed by a P–T increase that can be related to a second burial–exhumation cycle during Alpine orogenesis, as recently reported for other Alpine units.

Petrology and SHRIMP U–Pb dating of Xitieshan eclogite, North Qaidam UHP metamorphic belt, NW China

Normal bimineralic and phengite-bearing eclogites have been recognized within mafic boudins (or lenses) enclosed in granitic and pelitic gneisses in the Xitieshan terrane, NW China. Bimineralic eclogite contains the primary M1 mineral assemblage Grt + Omp + Rt + Qtz+/−Zrn. Inclusions in M1 omphacite may be coesite pseudomorphs. Phengite eclogite consists of the M1 mineral assemblage Grt + Omp + Phn + Qtz + Rt+/−Zrn. Most eclogites are retrogressed to various degrees and contain hornblende, diopside and plagioclase, which commonly form symplectitic and/or kelyphitic intergrowths. The peak M1 P–T conditions of the Xitieshan eclogite are calculated to be P = 2.71–3.17 GPa and T = 751–791 °C, consistent with the presence of coesite pseudomorphs in omphacite. In addition, we have identified two stages of retrograde metamorphism; an early isothermal decompression stage (M2) followed by a later stage (M3) that developed under decreasing temperatures and pressures. During M2 internally-derived fluids played an important role, whereas during M3 and below externally-derived fluids dominated. The composition of garnet in M1changed little during M2 isothermal decompression (ITD), although pyrope contents in garnet locally decrease from core to rim where the grains have amphibole and pargasite + plagioclase coronas. Also the jadeite content (56%) of M1 omphacite decreased in the presence of active fluids during retrograde metamorphism. M1 phengite is replaced by the M2 assemblage Ms + Bt accompanied by K-feldspar + quartz. Amphibole compositions changed from magnesio-katophorite in M2 to pargasite in M3. Zircon U–Pb SHRIMP dating shows that the bimineralic eclogite has a magmatic protolith age of 877 ± 8 Ma and a metamorphic age of 439 ± 8 to 461 ± 4 Ma. We conclude that the Xitieshan metabasic rocks formed in the late Proterozoic and were subsequently subducted to depths of about 100 km, where they were metamorphosed to UHP eclogite during the late Ordovician (440–460 Ma). Based on these results, we suggest that the Xitieshan eclogites, together with other UHP terranes exposed in the western part of China, form a coherent part of the huge North Qaidam UHP metamorphic belt.

Lithostratigraphic setting and P-T metamorphic evolution for the Dora Maira Massif along the Piedmont Zone boundary (middle Susa Valley, NW Alps)

A new structural and petrological study, associated with a detailed geological mapping, allowed to better understand the tectonic relationships between the Dora Maira Massif and the Piedmont Zone in the middle Susa Valley. In the study area, a thick sequence of calcschists, previously attributed to the stratigraphic cover of the Dora Maira, is interpreted as belonging to the Piedmont Zone. Four deformation phases were identified: D1 represents the eclogite facies stage, D2 developed under greenschist facies conditions, transposed the early foliation and was responsible for the development of the regional schistosity S2. D3 is characterized by close to open folds with N dipping axial surfaces and finally, D4 developed macro-scale folds with E-dipping axial planes. Structural analyses allow to infer a relative timing for the tectonic contact between the two nappes which were coupled after the eclogite facies metamorphism but before the development of the S2 foliation under greenschist facies conditions. Petrographic investigation into metapelite samples permitted to identify two main metamorphic assemblages within the Dora Maira polymetamorphic basement: M1 (Phe + Pg + Cld + Grt + ChlI + Qtz + Rt) assemblage defines the S1 relict foliation, while M2 (Ms + Pg + Ab + ChlII + Qtz + Ilm ± Bt) assemblage is related to the regional foliation S2. PERPLE_X pseudosection modelling allowed to reconstruct a P-T path for a garnet–chloritoid-bearing micaschist from the northern part of the Dora Maira Massif, which reached eclogite facies conditions at 18–20 kbar and 515–525°C (M1/S1 event) and then was exhumed during increasing T (10–11 kbar and 555–565°C). The M2 assemblage defining the S2 regional foliation developed at P < 7 kbar and T < 575°C. According to the structural evolution, the tectonic coupling between Dora Maira and Piedmont Zone took place during exhumation along the subduction channel.

Early Carboniferous blueschist facies metamorphism in metapelites of the West Sudetes (Northern Saxothuringian Domain, Bohemian Massif)

AbstractThe metamorphic evolution of micaschists in the north‐eastern part of the Saxothuringian Domain in the Central European Variscides is characterized by the early high‐pressure M1 assemblage with chloritoid in cores of large garnet porphyroblasts and a Grt–Chl–Phe–Qtz ± Pg M2 assemblage in the matrix. Minerals of the M1–M2 stage were overprinted by the low‐pressure M3 assemblage Ab–Chl–Ms–Qtz ± Ep. Samples with the best‐preserved M1–M2 mineralogy mostly appear in domains dominated by the earlier D1 deformation phase and are only weakly affected by subsequent D2 overprint. Thermodynamic modelling suggests that mineral assemblages record peak‐pressure conditions of ≥18–19 kbar at 460–520 °C (M1) followed by isothermal decompression 10.5–13.5 kbar (M2) and final decompression to &lt;8.5 kbar and &lt;480 °C (M3). The calculated peak P–T conditions indicate a high‐pressure/low‐temperature apparent thermal gradient of ∼7–7.5 °C km−1. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry isotopic dating and electron microprobe chemical dating of monazite from the M1–M2 mineral assemblages give ages of 330 ± 10 and 328 ± 6 Ma, respectively, which are interpreted as the timing of a peak pressure to early decompression stage. The observed metamorphic record and timing of metamorphism in the studied metapelites show striking similarities with the evolution of the central and south‐western parts of the Saxothuringian Domain and suggest a common tectonic evolution along the entire eastern flank of the Saxothuringian Domain during the Devonian–Carboniferous periods.

Metamorphic P–T paths of the Zanhuang amphibolites and metapelites: constraints on the tectonic evolution of the Paleoproterozoic Trans-North China Orogen

Garnet-bearing metapelites and amphibolites are exposed in the south and middle parts of the Zanhuang complex, which is located in the central segment of the nearly NS-striking Trans-North China Orogen. These rocks preserve three metamorphic mineral assemblages forming at the prograde, peak and post-peak decompression stages. The prograde metamorphic stage (M1) is represented by mineral inclusions within garnet porphyroblasts, the peak metamorphic stage (M2) is represented by garnet rims and matrix minerals, whereas the retrograde stage (M3) is represented by amphibole + plagioclase symplectite rimming garnet porphyroblasts in the amphibolites and biotite + plagioclase symplectite rimming garnet porphyroblasts in the metapelites. All garnet porphyroblasts in the metapelites preserve prograde chemical zoning except for the ubiquitous, quite narrow zones from the underwent post-peak decompression. It has been determined through thermobarometric computation that the metamorphic conditions are 650–710°C at 8.2−9.2 kbar for the M1 (inclusion) assemblages, >810°C at >12.5 kbar for the metamorphic peak M2 (matrix) assemblages, and 660–680°C at 4.4–4.5 kbar for the retrograde M3 (symplectite) assemblages. These rocks are thus determined to have undergone metamorphism with clockwise P–T paths involving nearly isothermal decompression (ITD) segments, which is inferred to be related to the amalgamation of the Eastern and Western Blocks to form the coherent basement of the North China Craton along the Trans-North China Orogen in the late Paleoproterozoic (1.88–1.85 Ga).

Palaeoproterozoic high‐pressure granulite overprint of the Archean continental crust: evidence for homogeneous crustal thickening (Man Rise, Ivory Coast)

AbstractThe character of mountain building processes in Palaeoproterozoic times is subject to much debate. Based on the discovery of high‐pressure granulites in the Man Rise (Côte d’Ivoire), several authors have argued that Eburnean (Palaeoproterozoic) reworking of the Archean basement was achieved by modern‐style thrust‐dominated tectonics.A mafic granulite of the Kouibli area (Archean part of the Man Rise, western Ivory Coast) displays a primary assemblage (M1) containing garnet, diopsidic clinopyroxene, red‐brown pargasitic amphibole, plagioclase (andesine), rutile, ilmenite and quartz. This assemblage is associated with a subvertical regional foliation. Symplectites that developed at the expense of the M1 assemblage contain orthopyroxene, clinopyroxene, plagioclase (bytownite), green pargasitic amphibole, ilmenite and magnetite (M2). Multiequilibrium thermobarometric calculations and P–T pseudosections calculated with thermocalc suggest granulite facies conditions of ∼ 13 kbar, 850 °C and &lt;7 kbar, 700–800 °C for M1 and M2, respectively. In agreement with the qualitative information obtained from reaction textures and chemical zoning of minerals, this suggests an evolution dominated by decompression accompanied by moderate cooling. A Sm–Nd garnet – whole‐rock age of 2.03 Ga determined on this sample indicates that this evolution occurred during the Palaeoproterozoic. It is argued that from the geodynamic point of view the observed features are best explained by homogeneous thickening of the margin of the Archean craton, re‐heated and softened due to the accretion of hot, juvenile Palaeoproterozoic crust, as well as coeval intrusion of juvenile magmas. Crustal shortening was mainly accommodated by transpressive shear zones and by lateral crustal spreading rather than large‐scale thrust systems.

Granulite facies metamorphism and subsolidus fluid‐absent reworking, Strangways Range, Arunta Block, central Australia

AbstractOrthopyroxene‐rich quartz‐saturated granulites of the Strangways Range, Arunta Block, central Australia, record evidence of two high‐grade metamorphic events. Initial granulite facies metamorphism (M1, at c. 1.7 Ga) involved partial melting and migmatization culminating in conditions of 8.5 kbar and 850 °C. Preservation of the peak M1 mineral assemblages from these conditions indicates that most of the generated melt was lost from these rocks at or near peak metamorphic conditions. Subsequent reworking (M2, at c. 1.65 Ga) is characterized by intense deformation, the absence of partial melting and the development of orthopyroxene–sillimanite ± gedrite‐bearing mineral assemblages. Gedrite is only present in cordierite‐rich lithologies where it preferentially replaces M1 cordierite porphyroblasts. Pseudosection calculations indicate that M2 occurred at subsolidus fluid‐absent conditions (aH2o ∼ 0.2) at 6–7.5 kbar and 670–720 °C. The mineral assemblages in the reworked rocks are consistent with closed system behaviour with respect to H2O subsequent to M1 melt loss. M2 reworking was primarily driven by increased temperature from the stable geotherm reached after cooling from M1 and deformation‐induced recrystallization and re‐equilibration, rather than rehydration from an externally derived fluid. The development of the M2 assemblages is strongly dependent on the intensity of deformation, not only for promoting equilibration, but also for equalizing the volume changes that result from metamorphic reactions. Calculations suggest that the protoliths of the orthopyroxene‐rich granulites were cordierite–orthoamphibole gneisses, rather than pelites, and that the unusual bulk compositions of these rocks were inherited from the protoliths. Melt loss is insufficient to account for the genesis of these rocks from more typical pelitic compositions. In quartz‐rich gneisses, however, melt loss along the M1 prograde path was able to modify the bulk rock composition sufficiently to stabilize peak metamorphic assemblages different from those that would have otherwise developed.

Mineral chemistry, P-T-t paths and exhumation processes of mafic granulites in Dinggye, Southern Tibet

The mafic granulites in Dinggye, as various scale lense-shaped enclaves within the high Himalayan crystalline rock series, occur along mylonitic foliations at the junction between the Southern Tibetan Detachment System (STDS) and the Xainza-Dinggye normal fault system. The main lithological assemblage comprises garnet plagioclase pyroxenite, garnet two-pyroxene granulite, pyroxene garnet amphibolite and so on. The detailed petrological analyses show that these mafic granulites underwent at least four-stage metamorphic evolution. The first metamor-phic stage, the garnet+clinopyroxene+quart mineral assemblage (M1) was probably formed un-der eclogite facies, the second stage, the plagioclase+clinopyroxene symplectite mineral as-semblage (M2) was produced under high-pressure granulite facies by the early decompressive breakdown of M1 mineral assemblage, the third stage, the plagioclase+clinopyroxene+ hypersthene symplectite mineral assemblage (M3) was formed at granulite facies by the late period decompressive breakdown of M1 and M2 mineral assemblages and the final stage, pla-gioclase+hornblende mineral assemblage (M4) was formed by hydrolysis of earlier mineral as-semblages during late uplifting. The detailed mineral composition analyses suggest that garnets and clinopyroxenes within M1 and M2 mineral assemblages display similar compositions to the equivalents in the B and C types of eclogites, whereas the M3 clinopyroxenes are akin to these of the same kind of minerals in the granulite. These mineral chemistry features and P-T es-timates calculated by mineral thermometers and barometers indicate that the early stage relic porphyroblasts (M1) could be formed at the eclogite facies, the early decompressive breakdown (M2) occurred at the high-pressures granulite facies of 1.35―1.48 GPa and 625―675℃, the M3 mineral assemblage recorded the granulite facies of 0.7―0.95 GPa and 775―900℃ and M4 plagioglase+hornblende retrograde mineral assemblage was produced under the amphibolite facies metamorphism with pressure of 0.4 to 0.75 GPa and temperature at between 660 and 700℃. These construct P-T paths from crustal subduction overthickening to tectonic uplift tectonothermal evolution. The mineral chemical characteristics and P-T condition at every metamorphic stage of these granulites indicate that these rocks experienced the eclogite facies metamorphism during the early stage. Subsequently, these mafic granulites underwent the three-stage exhumation of the eclogite facies tectonic uplift, isostatic uplift related to the trans-formation from eclogite/high-pressure granulite to granulite facies and extensional uplift.

Tourmaline-bearing rocks in the Singhbhum shear zone, eastern India: Evidence of boron infiltration during regional metamorphism

Frozen-in reaction textures combined with mineral chemistry of tourmaline-bearing metamorphic assemblages provide valuable information about fluid-rock interaction during orogenesis. Tourmaline occurs in four distinct mineralogical associations in the Singhbhum Shear Zone (SSZ) of the Precambrian East Indian craton. The tourmaline-bearing rocks are associated intimately with pelitic to psammopelitic and quartzofeldspasthic rocks, including meta-granite. The rocks were affected by two sets of folding (F1 and F2) and ductile shearing associated with F1 during ca. 1.6–1.8 Ga tectonic activity in this belt. Quantitative geothermobarometry and the stability relations of the metamorphic assemblages developed in the pelitic rocks establish the presence of two episodes of metamorphism; a prograde M1 event that culminated at 480 ± 40 °C, 6.4 ± 0.4 kbar, and an M2 event that caused retrogression of the M1 assemblages. Field and petrographic observations in combination with data on chemical composition of tourmaline indicate three stages of tourmaline growth. The earliest stage is represented by pretectonic (pre−metamorphic) greenish-yellow tourmaline cores in the tourmalinite from the Surda area (Association A). The textural relations demonstrate that in the second stage, greenish-yellow cores of oscillatory zoned tourmaline in the metagranite (albite + quartz + biotite + chlorite ± muscovite ± apatite ± magnetite, Association C), very fine tourmaline grains in muscovite schist (muscovite ± quartz, Association B) and greenish yellow cores of tourmaline in biotite-muscovite schist (biotite + muscovite + magnetite + chlorite + apatite+ quartz, Association D) crystallized during the F1-M1 events. Post-tectonic, greenish-blue tourmaline, belonging to the third stage, replaces the earlier tourmaline grains along their margins and cracks. Compositionally, tourmalines of all four associations fall in the alkali group. Most of the data fall in the dravite field with a few analyses straddling the boundary between schorl and dravite. An abrupt compositional change was noted across the different color zones in the tourmaline grains. This change is explained by one or more of the coupled substitutions, □Al(NaR)−1, CaR(NaAl) −1, and Mg(Fe) −1, where R = Mg + Fe2+ + Mn. Integrating the field, petrographic, and phase-compositional data, it has been demonstrated that tourmaline growth in the second and third stages was induced by infiltration-driven, B metasomatism during prograde metamorphism of the rocks. Deep-seated magma was the source of the B-bearing hydrothermal fluid.

Metamorphic evolution of kyanite–staurolite‐bearing epidote–amphibolite from the Early Palaeozoic Oeyama belt, SW Japan

AbstractEarly Palaeozoic kyanite–staurolite‐bearing epidote–amphibolites including foliated epidote–amphibolite (FEA), and nonfoliated leucocratic or melanocratic metagabbros (LMG, MMG), occur in the Fuko Pass metacumulate unit (FPM) of the Oeyama belt, SW Japan. Microtextural relationships and mineral chemistry define three metamorphic stages: relict granulite facies metamorphism (M1), high‐P (HP) epidote–amphibolite facies metamorphism (M2), and retrogression (M3). M1 is preserved as relict Al‐rich diopside (up to 8.5 wt.% Al2O3) and pseudomorphs after spinel and plagioclase in the MMG, suggesting a medium‐P granulite facies condition (0.8–1.3 GPa at &gt; 850 °C). An unusually low‐variance M2 assemblage, Hbl + Czo + Ky ± St + Pg + Rt ± Ab ± Crn, occurs in the matrix of all rock types. The presence of relict plagioclase inclusions in M2 kyanite associated with clinozoisite indicates a hydration reaction to form the kyanite‐bearing M2 assemblage during cooling. The corundum‐bearing phase equilibria constrain a qualitative metamorphic P–T condition of 1.1–1.9 GPa at 550–800 °C for M2. The M2 minerals were locally replaced by M3 margarite, paragonite, plagioclase and/or chlorite. The breakdown of M2 kyanite to produce the M3 assemblage at &lt; 0.5 GPa and 450–500 °C suggests a greenschist facies overprint during decompression. The P–T evolution of the FPM may represent subduction of an oceanic plateau with a granulite facies lower crust and subsequent exhumation in a Pacific‐type orogen.

An Archean(?) to Paleozoic Evolution for a Garnet Peridotite Lens with Sub-Baltic Shield Affinity within the Seve Nappe Complex of Jamtland, Sweden, Central Scandinavian Caledonides

Mineralogical, isotopic, geochemical and geochronological evidence demonstrates that the Friningen body, a garnet peridotite body containing garnet pyroxenite layers in the Seve Nappe Complex (SNC) of Northern JaEmtland, Sweden, represents old, certainly Proterozoic and possibly Archean, lithosphere that became incorporated into the Caledonian tectonic edifice during crustal subduction into the mantle at c. 450Ma. Both garnet peridotite and pyroxenite contain two (M1 and M2) generations of garnet-bearing assemblages separated by the formation of two-pyroxene, spinel symplectite around the M1 garnet and the crystallization of low-Cr spinel1C in the matrix. These textures suggest initial high-pressure (HP) crystallization of garnet peridotite and pyroxenite succeeded by decompression into the spinel stability field, followed by recompression into the garnet peridotite facies. Some pyroxenite layers appear to be characterized solely by M2 assemblages with stretched garnet as large as several centimeters. Laser ablation microprobe--inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry Re---Os analyses of single sulfide grains generally define meaningless model ages suggesting more than one episode of Re and/or Os addition and/ or loss to the body. Pentlandite grains from a single polished slab of one garnet peridotite, however, define a linear array on an Re---Os isochron diagram that, if interpreted as an errorchron, suggests an Archean melt extraction event that left behind the depleted dunite and harzburgite bodies that characterize the SNC. Refertilization of this mantle by melts associated with the development of the pyroxenite layers is indicated by enriched clinopyroxene Sr---Nd isotope ratios, and by parallel large ion lithophile-enriched trace element patterns in clinopyroxene from pyroxenite and the immediately adjacent peridotite. Clinopyroxene and whole-rock model Sm---Nd ages (TDM ˆ 1 1---2 2 Ga) indicate that fertilization took place in Proterozoic times. Sm---Nd garnet2---clinopyroxene2---whole rock orthopyroxene2 mineral isochrons from three pyroxenite layers define overlapping ages of 452 1 7 5 and 448 13Ma and 451 43Ma (2s). All ages are within error of Sm---Nd mineral ages from eclogite in the enclosing host gneiss, demonstrating that, whereas silicate intrusion and fertilization occurred in the mantle during the Proterozoic, the formation of at least the M2 garnet-bearing assemblages occurred in the crust, as that crust was subducted into the mantle during the Caledonian orogenic cycle. By analogy we infer a similar origin for other JOURNAL OF PETROLOGY VOLUME 45 NUMBER 2 PAGES 415±437 2004 DOI: 10.1093/petrology/egg088