Os Isotope Systematics Research Articles

Rhenium–Os isotopic systematics of late Cenozoic intraplate basaltic rocks from Korea: Implications for recycled slab materials in their mantle source

We present, for the first time, comprehensive Re-Os isotopic data for 23 late Cenozoic intraplate basaltic rocks from seven locations (Mount Baekdu, Jeongok, Baengnyeong Island, Ganseong, Ullueng Island, Dok Island, and Jeju Island) on the Korean Peninsula. The Re-Os isotopic system serves as an important tracer of processes such as the reworking of old continental lithosphere or the deep crustal recycling. We use these data to investigate the role of the lithospheric mantle, which is currently debated as a source of the basaltic rocks, and to constrain the source lithology. The initial 187Os/188Os ratios of the Korean basalts range from 0.1321 to 0.6455, with γOs values of 4.0–408.3. The γOs values do not show a simple correlation with Sr-Nd-Hf-Pb isotope compositions. There are no significant correlations between MgO contents and 187Os/188Os ratios or Os contents and 187Os/188Os ratios, which demonstrate that crustal assimilation did not produce the supra-chondritic Os isotopic compositions. The γOs values of the Korean basalts are much higher than previously published γOs of spinel peridotite xenoliths (−9.1 to +1.2) hosted in the basalts, indicating the subcontinental lithospheric mantle was not the main source of the basaltic magmatism. The combination of the Os and Sr-Nd-Hf-Pb isotopic compositions suggests that recycled oceanic crust (potentially Pacific oceanic lithosphere), along with pelagic sediments, which possibly reside in the mantle transition zone, is the enriched component with the supra-chondritic Os isotopic composition in the mantle source of the Korean basalts.

Re−Os Isotope and PGE Abundance Systematics of Coast Range Ophiolite Peridotites and Chromitite, California: Insights into Fore-Arc Magmatic Processes

Abstract We report platinum-group element (PGE) and Re concentrations, and Re−Os isotopic data for peridotites and podiform chromitite from the mid-Jurassic Coast Range ophiolite (CRO), California. Our aim is to provide insights into the formation and evolution of the CRO in a fore-arc tectonic setting. The CRO peridotites are divided into two groups: abyssal and supra-subduction zone (SSZ). They have Ir-group PGE concentrations similar to estimates for the primitive mantle and nearly chondritic relative abundances [(Os/Ir)N ≈ 1.1]. Abyssal-type peridotites have slightly subchondritic Pd-group PGE (PPGE)−Re abundances and flat chondrite-normalized patterns, whereas the SSZ-type ones are depleted overall with highly fractionated PPGE−Re patterns. The CRO peridotites have 187Os/188Os values of 0.1188 to 0.1315 (γOs = −8.3 to 1.4) and 187Re/188Os ranging from 0.022 to 0.413. The oxygen fugacity based on the V/Yb ratios of the CRO peridotites is equivalent to the fayalite−magnetite−quartz buffer. The abyssal-type peridotites are residues after ≤5% melting of the primitive upper mantle and represent a remnant of oceanic lithosphere trapped in an SSZ setting but before it was re-melted or modified by subduction processes. The abyssal-type peridotites yield an aluminachron model age of ~1.5 Ga, implying that the CRO mantle had experienced episode(s) of melt extraction before the CRO crust was formed. The SSZ-type peridotites are refractory residues after ~5% to 15% melting. Extraction of fore-arc basalts generated mainly by decompression melting resulted in the SSZ-type peridotites. The chromitite has 187Os/188Os value of 0.1250 (γOs = −3.5) and PGE−Re patterns complementary to that of boninite, indicating a genetic link to fore-arc magmatism.

Sources of Ore Material in the Platinum-Group Element Deposits of Polar Siberia and the Middle Urals Based on the Data from Radiogenic (Re–Os, Pt–Os) and Stable (Cu, S) Isotopes

Abstract —Understanding the main events of platinum-group element (PGE) ore formation is impossible without analysis of the sources and behavior of major ore-forming components, namely, platinum, osmium, sulfur, and copper, which are important indicators of magmatic and hydrothermal processes. In contrast to the Re–Os isotope system, the radiogenic Pt–Os isotope system, as well as stable isotopes of Cu and S in PGE deposits, are still relatively understudied. Our comprehensive research is aimed at filling this gap. The paper presents data for the Guli massif of ultramafic and alkaline rocks and carbonatites in Polar Siberia and on the zonal Nizhny Tagil and Svetly Bor clinopyroxenite–dunite massifs in the Middle Urals, which include: (1) the contents of the highly siderophile elements (HSE) in whole rocks and platinum-group minerals (PGM), (2) the Re–Os and Pt–Os isotope systematics of chromitite, Os–Ir alloys, and Ru–Os sulfides, (3) the sulfur isotope composition in Ru–Os and Ir–Rh sulfides in primary and secondary PGM assemblages, and (4) the copper isotope composition in Pt–Fe minerals from chromitites and placers. The research was performed using scanning electron microscopy, electron probe microanalysis, and high-precision isotope-geochemical analysis. The high-precision Re–Os and Pt–Os isotope data show that the HSE contents in chromitites and PGM of the Guli massif were controlled by the composition of the mantle source that evolved with near-chondritic time-integrated Re/Os and Pt/Os ratios, which are also typical of the sources of most komatiites and abyssal peridotites. The δ65Cu values of the studied samples of ferroan platinum and isoferroplatinum are identical within the analytical uncertainty and are close to 0‰, which is typical of high-temperature Cu-containing minerals. The sulfur isotope compositions of the Ir–Rh sulfides of the kashinite–bowieite series and of the Ru–Os sulfides of the laurite–erlichmanite series in the primary PGM assemblages indicate that the source of sulfur has a chondritic isotope composition, which is in agreement with the osmium isotope composition of the Ru–Os sulfides and Os–Ir alloys. The heavy sulfur isotope composition (δ34S = 5.6 ± 1.5‰) of As-containing erlichmanite is consistent with its secondary origin. The new data on the isotope compositions of osmium, copper, and sulfur can be used as new important parameters that characterize the sources of PGE mineralization.

Significance of highly siderophile element and Re–Os isotope systematics in global carbonatites

The systematics of highly siderophile elements (HSE) in carbonatites have rarely been investigated although carbonatite melts are among key metasomatic agents in the Earth's mantle. Thus, establishing the Os isotope systematics of carbonatites is of prime importance because carbonatite metasomatism might play a determining role in driving 187Os/188Os signature of the Earth's mantle as a consequence of extreme mobility of carbonatite liquids. In this study, a suite of carbonatites from continental settings was analyzed for HSE abundances and Re–Os isotope systematics, combined with detailed petrography of sulfide phases, to provide constraints on the HSE behavior during the formation of carbonatite melts, the role of sulfides in distribution of HSE and the reliability of Re–Os isotope compositions. All investigated carbonatites display low ΣHSE <1 ppb whereby calciocarbonatites exhibit supra-chondritic OsN/IrN ratios from ∼1.4 to 15, in contrast to magnesiocarbonatites and Mg/Fe-rich carbonatites showing exclusively sub-chondritic OsN/IrN. We posit that preferential removal of Os over Ir during the segregation of calcite-normative melts from the co-existing S-rich silicate melts is the main driver of Os/Ir elemental fractionation. The present-day 187Os/188Os ratios in carbonatites range from mildly unradiogenic (∼0.124) to extremely radiogenic values (∼115–152), with 187Os/188Os(i) ratios spanning from negative to highly radiogenic (∼17) values, paralleled by highly variable 187Re/188Os ratios between 0.096 and ∼ 26,000, and without any clear relationship to the carbonatite type or emplacement age. The Re–Os systematics of carbonatites appear to be significantly modified by hydrothermal processes resulting in either removal of both Re and Os, or Re addition and, consequently, commonly negative calculated γOs values, which may indicate a rather limited potential of the Re–Os systematics to evaluate the nature of carbonatite melts. Conversely, limited Re–Os data for the samples that were likely not affected by late-stage perturbation indicate a largely radiogenic 187Os/188Os nature of carbonatite melts. Nevertheless, carbonatite melts may, in part, be responsible for the radiogenic γOs values commonly observed in mantle-derived silicate melts influenced by carbonatite-like metasomatism.

Geochemistry, mineral chemistry and Re–Os isotopes of refractory peridotites of the North Balkhash ophiolite zone in the West Central Asian Orogenic Belt (Central Kazakhstan): multi-stage melt evolution of a late Precambrian forearc mantle

In this study we report on the petrography, major and trace element and mineral chemistry, platinum-group elements and Re–Os isotope systematics of depleted ultramafic rock suites from the Itmurundy Block in the North Balkhash ophiolite zone in Kazakhstan. Represented mainly by variably serpentinized harzburgites and dunites, our samples are characterized by low whole-rock Al 2 O 3 (0.33–0.86 wt%), CaO (0.51–0.86 wt%) and Na 2 O (0.07–0.25 wt%) concentrations, and high-Mg olivine (Fo = 91–92) and orthopyroxene (Mg# = 92–93) contents, together with moderately high spinel Cr-numbers (Cr# = 63–68). They are depleted in incompatible elements ( Σ REE, Nb, Sc) and enriched in compatible elements, such as Cr (up to 2817 ppm) and Ni (up to 2327 ppm), representing highly refractory mantle residues derived from a forearc mantle wedge. They underwent 19–23% hydrous partial melting to produce boninitic melts. 187 Os/ 188 Os values vary from 0.1202 to 0.12599, and 187 Re/ 188 Os ratios from 0.230 to 0.316. The Re–Os model ages (T MA ) and maximum Re depletion model age (T RD ) were calculated based on the obtained data. Re–Os isotope systematics suggests that the analysed peridotites formed in two stages: a first stage around 1.5 Ga and a later stage around 668–589 Ma. Supplementary material: A supplementary figure is available at https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.6845683 Thematic collection: This article is part of the Ophiolites, melanges and blueschists collection available at: https://www.lyellcollection.org/topic/collections/ophiolites-melanges-and-blueschists

Organic matter accumulation and hydrothermal effect of the Barney Creek formation in the Glyde Sub-basin, northern Australia

The Glyde Sub-basin is a large petroliferous unit in the McArthur Basin, northern Australia, and it is situated ∼100 km southeast to the world-class McArthur River Zn–Pb hydrothermal deposit. The Paleoproterozoic Barney Creek Formation (BCF) is the hydrocarbon source rock in the sub-basin, and also the host rock for the McArthur River deposit. The controlling factors of organic matter accumulation and the hydrothermal effects on organic matter thermal maturity are not well-constrained for the BCF in the Glyde Sub-basin, hindering petroleum and mineral explorations. To address these issues, rock eval pyrolysis, reflectance measurement, trace element analysis, Nd–Hf and Re–Os isotopic analysis were conducted for the BCF samples taken from the drill-hole GRNT-79-5 in the Glyde Sub-basin. Analysis of trace elements and Nd–Hf isotopic ratios shows that cuttings of the BCF were derived from a mafic-dominant source (La/Ni = 0.89–2.27, La/Cr = 0.63–1.04, La/Sc = 3.16–4.95, La/V = 0.23–0.81, ϵNd = −5.01 to −2.98, ϵHf = −2.27 – 1.8), which may have contributed to a pronounced phosphorous delivery to the basin, resulting in enhanced primary productivity of seawater. Therefore, the high organic matter abundance in the BCF (TOC = 0.86%–5.04%) is most likely controlled by the primary productivity of seawater. The 187Re/188Os ratios (34.954–432.95) of a suite of samples negatively correlate with proportions of kerogen in organic matter (0%–94%), suggesting that burial temperature has reset the Re–Os isotope system. Hydrocarbon generation may have been promoted by hydrothermal fluid flows which relate to the McArthur River mineralization because the Re–Os isotope data yield an isochron age similar to the age of mineralization. The Re–Os isotope data provide direct evidence that the BCF in the Glyde Sub-basin was affected by hydrothermal fluids. However, the co-variation between thermal maturity indicators (Tmax = 436–444 °C; reflectance of solid bitumen = 0.34%–0.66%) and burial depth (97–512 m) suggests that organic matter thermal maturation primarily resulted from burial diagenesis rather than hydrothermal fluid flows. This indicates that temperatures of hydrothermal fluids was not high enough to significantly alter the thermal regime of the studied region.

Sr, Nd, Pb, and Os Isotope Systematics and Derivation of Mesozoic Plume-Related Basalts of Antarctica: Karoo-Maud and Kerguelen Plume Realm

The study of Re–Os isotopic systematics of the Mesozoic magmas in East Antarctica and its comparison with Sr–Nd–Pb–Os published data allowed us to reveal the main features of Antarctic magmatism associated with the activity of the Karoo–Maud (Dronning Maud Land (DML), Karoo and Ferrar provinces) and the Kerguelen (Lambert rift area) plumes. It is shown that a melt source of the 180-Ma Karoo–Maud plume could be enriched lithospheric mantle. Variations of the 187Os/188Os ratio in the range of 0.1242–0.1426 characterize almost all types of melts in the Karoo and DML provinces, including both high- and low-Ti magmas as well as high-Mg ferropicrites produced by melting of mantle pyroxenite. This observation is consistent with previous assumption that magmas derived from pyroxenite mantle at the initial stage of plume impact represented melts of deep lithospheric fragments of ancient Gondwana paleocontinent that were entrapped by plume. Thereby, mantle heterogeneity recorded in the Nd–Pb–Sr isotopic compositions of the basalts is not expressed in the systematic variations of Re–Os isotope system. The magmatic source of the basalts of the Ferrar province differs from the source of Mesozoic magmatism in the Karoo and DML provinces by great variations in the 187Os/188Os ratio: from 0.1 to 0.31, and by the lower osmium contents, with limited variations of other isotopic systems, indicating an admixture of enriched EM-II source. This is consistent with inferred subduction reworking of the mantle of the western Antarctic margin (Sushchevskaya et al., 2022). Ultramafic picritic magmas from the Lambert Glacier area are characterized by a radiogenic osmium isotopic composition: 187Os/188Os 0.1582–0.2388. Source of these magmas could be ancient depleted mantle, which later experienced mantle metasomatism due to the multiple interactions with fluid-saturated melts. Picritic melts of the paleorift zone of the Lambert Glacier are close to a magma source of the Karoo and DML provinces in terms of Sr-Nd isotopic composition, but differ in more radiogenic lead.

Sr, Nd, Pb, and Os Isotope Systematics and Derivation of Mesozoic Plume-Related Basalts of Antarctica: Karoo-Maud and Kerguelen Plume Realm

Sr, Nd, Pb, and Os Isotope Systematics and Derivation of Mesozoic Plume-Related Basalts of Antarctica: Karoo-Maud and Kerguelen Plume Realm

Evaluation of Re–Os geochronology and Os isotope fingerprinting of Late Cretaceous terrestrial oils in Taranaki Basin, New Zealand

The rhenium-osmium (Re–Os) isotope system has been applied to several marine and lacustrine petroleum systems worldwide, showing good potential for dating crude oils and correlating them to their source rocks. Here we explore the applicability of the Re–Os geochronometer and Os isotope fingerprinting to terrestrial oils by comparing the Re and Os systematics of Late Cretaceous terrestrial oils from Taranaki Basin, New Zealand, and their correlated coaly source rocks. Comparison is also made with selected Late Cretaceous–Paleocene marine oils and source rocks with varying levels of terrestrial organic matter input.The asphaltene fractions of nine genetically related terrestrial oils from the Maui, Maari-Manaia and Tui Area fields in offshore Taranaki Basin contain low concentrations of Re (0.18–0.45 ppb) and 192Os (1.3–12.7 ppt) comparable to their correlated Late Cretaceous coaly source rocks (Rakopi and North Cape formations; Re 0.19–0.37 ppb, 192Os 5.3–9.6 ppt). The Re and 192Os concentrations in these terrestrial oils are generally one to two orders of magnitude lower than those in marine-sourced oils from the Kora Field in offshore Taranaki Basin and surface seeps in East Coast Basin.The 187Re/188Os and 187Os/188Os ratios of the terrestrial oils failed to yield a precise Re–Os isochron age. We attribute this to: (1) insufficient homogenisation of oils with widely variable initial 187Os/188Os (Osi) values inherited from thick, coaly source rock intervals (up to about 2700 m) within the Maui sub-basin and northern Kahurangi Trough kitchens; (2) insufficient spread of 187Re/188Os values (only 275 units); (3) insufficient time since oil expulsion (modelled to be from approximately 10 Ma to the present day) for the evolution of an isochron; and (4) possible effects of water washing of the oil columns. Although all of the studied oils are water-washed to varying degrees, there is no definitive evidence that water washing has disturbed the Re–Os systematics.The Osi values for the studied terrestrial oils inherited at the modelled time of oil expulsion (approximately 10 Ma) display a wide range (0.47–1.14) and do not provide a unique fingerprint of their Late Cretaceous coaly source rock formations. Osmium isotope compositions therefore appear to have limited potential for broad oil-source rock correlation within the predominantly coal-sourced petroleum systems of Taranaki Basin. The Osi values may, however, provide useful distinction of the terrestrial oils emanating from the Kahurangi Trough (Tui Area oils) from those of the Maui sub-basin (Maui and Maari-Manaia oils) based on the significantly more radiogenic values of the Tui Area oils (0.84–1.14 compared with 0.47–0.65 from Maui and Maari-Manaia oils). Overall, this study has provided useful insights into the potential application of the Re–Os isotope system to terrestrial, coal-sourced petroleum systems.

The Mal’dzhangarka Carbonatite Massif (Anabar Shield): The Age of Magmatism and Mineralization (U–Pb and Re–Os Isotope Systems)

Abstract—We present the first results of a comprehensive isotope-geochemical study of dolomitic carbonatites of the Mal’dzhangarka massif located in the southeast of the Billyakh melange zone (southeastern periphery of the Anabar Shield). Zircon grains separated from core samples from a depth of 6–30 m have a three-phase structure. All of them were trapped from the host metamorphic rocks and mark the age of the main stage of high-gradient metamorphism in the region, 2027 ± 9 Ma. Pyrochlore containing 38–705 ppm U and 5–21 ppm radiogenic Pb, with weak metamictization of the crystal lattice and an undisturbed U–Pb system, made it possible to estimate the concordant age of rare-metal mineralization in the massif, 167 ± 4 Ma, which is probably close to the crystallization age of the host carbonatites. The estimated age corresponds to one of the stages of kimberlite–carbonatite magmatism on the eastern slope of the Anabar dome. The Re–Os isotope system of pyrite from superposed late carbonate–sulfide veinlets in the carbonatites testifies to a close (within the error of determination) age, 179 ± 14 Ma, and a low initial Os isotope ratio, which indicates the contribution of mantle material to the formation of this isotope system.

Generation of Continental Lithospheric Mantle by Tectonic Isolation of Oceanic Plate

AbstractContinental formation models invoke subduction or plume‐related processes to create the buoyant, refractory character of continental lithospheric mantle (CLM). From similarities in melt depletion, major element composition, modal clinopyroxene, and Os isotope systematics it has been proposed that oceanic mantle lithosphere is the likely protolith to non‐cratonic CLM, however, a direct link between the two has been difficult to ascertain. Using dredged mantle peridotite xenoliths from the Ferrel Seamount, off the west coast of Baja California, Mexico, we show that tectonic isolation of an oceanic plate may lead to formation of non‐cratonic CLM. Ferrel xenoliths are coarse‐grained spinel lherzolite, or rare harzburgite. Bulk‐rock and clinopyroxene trace element compositions reveal two‐stages of melt refertilization following melt depletion, with infiltration by mid‐ocean ridge basalt‐type melts, followed by melt addition from host alkali basalt. Melt depletion correlations with 187Os/188Os and highly siderophile element abundances indicate preserved melt depletion and refertilization processes are ancient. From these observations, the Ferrel xenoliths represent lithosphere from the abandoned Pacific‐Farallon ridge. The history of melt depletion, followed by MORB‐melt refertilization is consistent with the peridotites representing oceanic mantle lithosphere that was subsequently incorporated into the Baja‐Guadalupe microplate during “ridge jump.” These peridotites demonstrate that isolation of oceanic lithosphere that is rafted onto a continental margin provides a viable means for producing non‐cratonic CLM. We suggest that continuation of late‐stage, low degree melt refertilization may provide a link between oceanic lithosphere and non‐cratonic CLM and propose a tectonic model to preserve and facilitate this continued evolution.

Geodynamic Formation Conditions and Age of Granitoids from Small Intrusions in the West of the Yana–Kolyma Gold Belt (Northeast Asia)

Abstract We report results of geological, mineralogical-petrographic, geochemical, isotope-geochemical (Sm–Nd, Rb–Sr), and geochronological (U–Pb, 40Ar/39Ar) studies of acid and intermediate intrusive rocks (granodiorites, leucocratic granites, subalkaline granites, and subalkaline leucocratic granites, diorites, and quartz diorites) of the Bukeschen and Samyr small plutons in the western part of the Yana–Kolyma gold belt (northeast Asia). These rocks are combined with Late Jurassic (151–145 Ma) dikes of basic, intermediate, and acid compositions into a single complex of small intrusions. They intrude the Upper Triassic–Middle Jurassic terrigenous deposits of continental margin blocks in the eastern part of the Verkhoyansk–Kolyma folded area. Our new U–Pb data for zircon (SHRIMP-II) indicate that the Bukeschen and Samyr pluton granitoids formed in the Berriasian, at 144.5 and 143 Ma, respectively. The small-intrusion granitoids have geochemical and isotope (Sm–Nd and Rb–Sr) characteristics similar to those of Late Jurassic dikes of varying composition. Therefore, they can be united into a single complex of small intrusions generated from a mixed source with the participation of mantle (OIB- and E-MORB type), lower crust, and subduction components and with Paleoproterozoic–Mesoproterozoic Sm–Nd model age estimates for the magma sources. Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous magmatic and postmagmatic events and cooling of the intrusions played an important role in the processes of gold localization in the western part of the Yana–Kolyma gold belt. This is reflected in two tectonothermal stages (accounting for closing temperatures of the U–Pb, 40Ar/39Ar, and Re–Os isotope systems for different minerals) estimated at 151–141 and 138–137 Ma. These results for the small-intrusion complex agree with the tectonic model of the evolution of an active continental margin (northeastern Siberia) in the Mesozoic era, whose final development stage in the Berriasian age saw the formation of mostly small granitoid plutons.

Highly siderophile element and Os isotope systematics of the Cenozoic volcanic rocks from the Eastern Pontides, NE Turkey: Constraints on the origin and evolution of subcontinental mantle-derived magmas

The Cenozoic subalkaline to alkaline volcanic rocks from the Eastern Pontides Orogenic Belt (EPOB) in NE Turkey exhibit wide range of highly siderophile element (HSE) contents and Os isotope compositions that can be related to their mantle sources and parental melt evolution. Although some Eocene rocks show signs of late-stage modification, most of the studied volcanic rocks possess primary HSE and Os systematics. The Eocene volcanic rocks have largely variable PdN/IrN (~0.25–751), PdN/PtN (~0.25–87) and (187Os/188Os)i ratios (~0.113 to 0.51). The Miocene volcanic rocks have high PdN/IrN (~2.6–441), low PdN/PtN (~0.11–1.7) and radiogenic (187Os/188Os)i ratios ranging from ~0.166 to 0.52 while the Mio-Pliocene volcanic rocks show high PdN/IrN of ~7.2–29, low PdN/PtN (~1.2–2.7), and only mildly radiogenic (187Os/188Os)i values between ~0.132 and 0.177. Finally, the Quaternary volcanic rocks have low PdN/IrN (~2.3–3.6), PdN/PtN (~0.9–1.6) and radiogenic (187Os/188Os)i values ranging from ~0.133 to 0.194. Overall, the primitive mantle-normalized HSE patterns of the studied volcanic rocks are characterized by PPGE (Pt, Pd) and Re enrichment with respect to IPGE (Os, Ir, Ru). The variations in HSE and radiogenic Os isotope compositions of the relatively differentiated volcanic rocks indicate that crustal assimilation played active role in their parental melt evolution, especially in the Eocene and Miocene period. Besides, the obtained HSE data also suggest that the parental magmas of all the studied volcanic rocks were generated mainly in the S-saturated conditions. The temporal and spatial HSE and Os isotope variations observed in the studied Cenozoic volcanic rocks reflect the heterogeneity of the mantle source beneath the EPOB, which could be attributed to variations in response of different fluid/melt metasomatism of the underlying SCLM.

Ore Geology, RE–OS Isotope Geochemistry of the Au and Au-Sb Mineralizations, Kular–Nera Terrane, Northeast Asia: Implications for Time of Formation and Ore Genesis

The paper presents the first results of investigation of the Re–Os isotope system of native gold from the Malo-Tarynskoe, Khangalas, Bazovskoe, and chalcopyrite from the Dvoinoe orogenic gold deposits and stibnite from the Maltan Au-Sb depositin the Kular–Nera terrane, Northeast Asia. The deposits are spatially related to NW-trending lithospheric-scale major brittle faults or controlled by subsidiary faults and fracture zones. Such zones served as pathways for fluids rising from below the crust, and they have a long tectonic and reactivation history. The Kular–Nera terrane consists of Upper Permian, Triassic, and Lower Jurassic clastic sedimentary-rock sequences, metamorphosed to initial stages of greenschist facies. Magmatism is manifested by Kimmeridgian–Berriasian S- and I-types granitoids and mafic dikes of the Tas–Kystabyt magmatic belt. Re concentration in gold varies from 0.168 to 6.997 ppb, and that of osmium – from 0.068 to 1.443 ppb. Chalcopyrite from the Dvoinoe deposit occurrence contains 0.1522 ppb Re and 0.499 ppb Os. Stibnite from the Maltan Au-Sb depositoccurrence contains 0. 236 ppb Re and 0.903 ppb Os. The Re–Os ages of gold from the Malo-Tarynskoe (147.8 ± 3.8 Ma) and Bazovskoe (147.2 ± 1.8 Ma) and Khangalas (137.1 ± 7.6 Ma) orogenic deposits and the Maltan Au-Sb deposits (69.7±1.9 Ma) are determined. Malo-Tarynskoe and Bazovskoe represent the earliest known orogenic gold mineralization in the Kular–Nera terrane. The data obtained permit us to correlate the initiation of orogenic gold-ore systems with the completion of the formation at the end of the Late Jurassic Uyandina–Yasachnaya volcanic belt, crystallization and subsequent cooling in the Late Jurassic–early Early Cretaceous of granitoid massifs of the Tas-Kystabyt magmatic belt, and subduction–accretionary events at the northeastern active continental margin of the Siberian craton. Maltan Au-Sb deposit is related to completion of the formation of the Albian-Late Cretaceous Okhotsk–Chukotka volcano-plutonic belt. Contrasting mantle and/or crustal sources of ore-forming material are established. The osmium initial isotopic ratio in gold 187Os/188Os = 0.2210-0.4275 and antimonite (0,2543-0,2976) is typical for the ore-forming material from the fertile mantle reservoir, and for chalcopyrite (3.1904) – from the crust.

Extent and age of Mesoarchean components in the Nagssugtoqidian orogen, West Greenland: Implications for tectonic environments and crust building in cratonic orogenic belts

The Nagssugtoqidian orogen (NO), which forms the northern margin of the North Atlantic craton in West Greenland, is largely comprised of ~2870 to 2720 Ma juvenile continental crust reworked during Paleoproterozoic orogenic events. Sparse evidence of components older than 3100 Ma in the area (U–Pb zircon ages and bulk-rock Sm–Nd isotopes) have hinted at a unit called the Qorlortoq gneiss but were not substantiated by regional studies. Here we report the “rediscovery” of the Qorlortoq gneiss, documented through a new geochemical and geochronological dataset of this orthogneiss and related components, which include ultramafic cumulate enclaves and late basaltic dykes. Laser Ablation Split Stream (LASS) U-Pb/Lu-Hf isotopic analyses of zircon from the gneiss give a U–Pb concordia upper-intercept age of 3177 ± 12 Ma and weighted mean εHf(t) of 1.7 ± 0.5, indicating a juvenile protolith extracted from a depleted mantle source.Ultramafic enclaves of cumulate origin make up a key component of the Qorlortoq gneiss. Their trace element systematics indicate a parental melt with tholeiitic affinities, sourced from depleted mantle beneath relatively thin lithosphere (<80 km), that was subsequently contaminated by crustal assimilation. Re–Os isotope systematics of the cumulates and their relationship with the younger Qorlortoq dykes place the age of these cumulates close to that of the Qorlortoq gneiss.The age of the Qorlortoq gneiss makes it the oldest known component in the NO by ~300 Ma. The extended timescale between episodes of crustal production in this area, could indicate a geodynamic environment characterized by stagnant-lid or episodic mobile-lid tectonics, at least on a regional scale. These constraints provide important information about the diversity and nature of Archean geodynamic environments.

Re–Os and Sr Isotopic Study of Permian–Triassic Sedimentary Rocks from the Himalaya: Shale Chronology and Carbonate Diagenesis

Sedimentary rocks from the Himalayas are well-preserved archives of the Neo-Tethys oceanic conditions. In this contribution, Re–Os isotopic systematics of black shales from the Gungri Formation, Spiti valley and siltstones from the Khunamuh Formation, Guryul Ravine have been investigated to constrain their depositional ages. The Re–Os isochron for the Gungri shales yields a depositional age of 255 ± 22 Ma (2σ; n = 8; MSWD (Mean Square Weighted Deviation) = 5.7), consistent with available biostratigraphic information. The initial 187Os/188Os ratio (0.60 ± 0.13) is similar to that reported for the Late Permian shales, indicating the connection of the Neo-Tethys with the global ocean. In contrast, the Re–Os systematic is found to be non-isochronous for the Guryul Ravine section, a proximal site with a strong influence of seismic/Tsunami events. Global compilation of 187Re/188Os ratios in Late Permian shales and bathymetric distribution of the Re/Os ratios point to strong role of Re/Os uptake by macroalgae, in addition to oceanic pH and redox state, in regulating the Re–Os systematic in shales. The 87Sr/86Sr ratios for the Induan carbonates from the Spiti (0.71551–0.71837) are higher than to that expected for the Lower Triassic ocean (~0.707). Co-variations of Sr and 87Sr/86Sr with Mn concentrations establish the diagenetic alteration of these carbonates.

Highly siderophile element and osmium isotope systematics of basaltic volcanics: A different approach to petrological processes

The highly siderophile element (HSE) or platinum group element (PGE) and Os isotope systematics of basaltic volcanics have recently received a significant attention because of their potential to constrain the petrological processes on magma generation and evolution. The HSE and Os isotope data, which are generally observed at very low concentrations in basalts and obtained by modern enrichment and analytical techniques, are frequently used in petrological studies. The HSE contents and ratios from whole-rock analysis of basalts, and combined evaluation with the theoretical knowledge and modelling of HSE behaviour during the partial melting of mantle and the differentiation of basaltic magma would provide opportunity for geochemical modelling on mantle melting. Besides, HSE contents and Pd-PGE/Ir-PGE ratios are important indicators for the nature of mantle sulfides, the sulfur saturation conditions of the mantle source, sulfide segregation, fractional crystallization, crustal assimilation and partial melting degrees in the origin and evolution of mantle-derived magmas. Therefore, in addition to the traditional whole-rock geochemical data obtained from Cenozoic aged basalts observed widely in Turkey, HSE and Os isotope systematics of these basalts can contribute to define the geochemical features of the mantle source, and to model petrological processes which are effective in the magma evolution.

Recent progress on the research of Re–Os geochronology and Re–Os elemental and isotopic systematics in petroleum systems

Re–Os geochronometer has been used in the dating of generation-accumulation, thermal cracking, and thermochemical sulfate reduction of crude oil and the oil-source correlation of petroleum systems in recent years. Re and Os concentrations are higher in the asphaltene fraction of crude oil and the earlier precipitated fractions of asphaltene. The correlations of the Re–Os isotopic systematics between asphaltene and maltene and among the fractions of asphaltenes are complex. It is shown by experiments that Re and Os can transfer from water to oil rapidly in a significant amount. However, Re–Os dating with multiple crude oil samples is suffering from great uncertainties while single oil dating methodology does not always work. A bright future for the application of Re–Os geochronometer on the dating of crude oil generation and accumulation requests further research on the homogenization mechanism of 187Os/188Os, the closed system of Re–Os systematics, and how Re and Os reside in crude oil.

Two mineralization events in the Laozuoshan Au deposit, north‐east China: Evidence from Re–Os geochronology and trace element geochemistry

The Laozuoshan deposit, located in the central Jiamusi Block of north‐east China, is characterized by two types of mineralization, including principal skarn‐type Au mineralization occurring along the contact zone between granite and migmatite, and minor auriferous quartz‐arsenopyrite veins hosting in plagiogranite and granite. Re–Os dating of auriferous pyrrhotite and arsenopyrite were performed to determine the metallogenic ages of the Laozuoshan gold deposit. Analyses of arsenopyrite from quartz vein‐type ores yield a weighted average model age of 89.0 ± 3.1 Ma (mean standard weighted deviation（MSWD） = 9.3), which is within uncertainty in agreement with the 187Re/188Os versus 187Os/188Os isochron age of 93.2 ± 2.6 Ma (MSWD = 1.3) and the 187Re versus 187Os isochron age of 97 ± 14 Ma (MSWD = 7.4). Pyrrhotite samples from skarn‐type ores have model ages from 82.6 Ma to 424.8 Ma, indicating an unclosed Re–Os isotope system. However, the skarn‐type Au mineralization likely occurred during the Permian following the emplacement of the Laozuoshan granite. Results of laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) trace element analysis show that element contents in sulphides from different types of ores are systematically different. Au, Ag, Bi, Pb, Co, and Ni are significantly enriched in skarn‐type arsenopyrite. These data suggest that the Laozuoshan deposit formed from two gold mineralization events. Combined with previous studies, we suggest that the skarn‐type Au mineralization was associated with the subduction of the Panthalassic oceanic plate, whereas the rollback of the Palaeo‐Pacific Plate was responsible for the quartz vein‐type Au mineralization in the Laozuoshan deposit. The multiple mineralization events have important implications for regional exploration.

Architecture and evolution of the lithospheric roots beneath circum-cratonic orogenic belts–The Xing'an Mongolia Orogenic Belt and its relationship with adjacent North China and Siberian cratonic roots

The accretionary mobile belts surrounding ancient cratonic cores are an important facet of the growth and preservation of continental landmasses. Peridotites from Nuominhe in the Xing'an Mongolia Orogenic Belt (XMOB) provide an additional opportunity to examine the age, structure and evolution of mantle lithosphere separating two of the largest existing ancient continental nuclei: the North China Craton and the Siberian Craton. This suite of mantle rocks comprises fertile to refractory garnet- and spinel-facies harzburgites and lherzolites. Their lithophile element systematics show that the peridotites were metasomatized to variable extent by silicate‑carbonate melts. Despite this, the highly siderophile element and Os isotope systematics appear to have been largely undisturbed. The Nuominhe peridotites have Re-depletion Os model ages (TRD) that range from 0.5 Ga to 2.4 Ga, with three peaks/major ranges at ~2.0–2.4 Ga, ~1.4–1.5 Ga and ~ 0.8 Ga, of which the latter two are closely similar to those data from other XMOB localities reported in the literature. The only section of the mantle that appears to have ages which correlate with crust formation is the suite with Neoproterozoic (~0.8 Ga) depletion ages, while the older mantle domains document older episodes of mantle depletion. Given the lack of correlation between equilibrium temperatures and bulk composition or TRD ages, the Nuominhe peridotites were inter-mixed in the mantle column, most likely as a result of incorporation of recycled older continental mantle fragments into juvenile Neoproterozoic mantle during the orogenic processes responsible for new lithosphere formation. Geothermobarometry of the Nuominhe peridotites indicates a conductive geotherm of ~60 mWm−2 and therefore a lithosphere thickness of ~125 km, which is thicker than most Phanerozoic continental terranes, and even thicker than Proterozoic regions that comprise the larger cratonic unit of the Siberian craton. This thick Proterozoic lithosphere sandwiched between the converging North China and Siberian cratons was evidently partly constructed from recycled refractory continental mantle fragments, perhaps extant in the convecting mantle, or in-part derived from the surrounding cratons, leading to a composite nature of the mantle in this re-healed continental suture. Re-accretion of recycled refractory old continental mantle fragments plays a significant role in affecting mantle composition and controlling the thickness of circum-cratonic landmasses between cratonic blocks.