Stages Of Retrograde Metamorphism Research Articles

Coeval formation and exhumation of metamorphic sole and ophiolite in the Saga ophiolitic mélange: Insights into subduction initiation of the Neo‐Tethys

AbstractSubduction initiation is recorded by upper plate magmatism and lower plate metamorphism, that is, supra‐subduction zone (SSZ) ophiolite–metamorphic sole pair. Here, we report geochemical and geochronological data as well as P–T calculations of amphibolites (metamorphic sole) and hornblende gabbros (SSZ ophiolite) from the Saga ophiolitic mélange in Tibetan Plateau. Amphibolites show trace element contents compatible with normal‐mid‐ocean ridge basalt (N‐MORB), indicating that the protolith of amphibolite formed in a MOR setting. Instead, hornblende gabbros show significant high field strength elements (HFSEs) negative anomalies, enriched large ion lithophile elements (LILEs) and high zircon εHf(t) values, suggesting they formed by fluid‐induced partial melting of a depleted mantle. Thermobarometry and phase equilibrium modelling suggest two stages of metamorphism for garnet–clinopyroxene amphibolites: (I) a peak metamorphic stage (~1.9 GPa and 1000°C) and (II) a retrograde metamorphic stage (1.1–1.6 GPa and 800–1000°C). Zircon U–Pb ages of amphibolite and hornblende gabbro are 128.8 ± 5.1 Ma and 128.1 ± 1.5 Ma, respectively, suggesting subduction initiation within the eastern Neo‐Tethys occurred no later than 128 Ma and SSZ ophiolite formed at ~128 Ma. Apatite U–Pb ages of amphibolite and hornblende gabbro are 121.8 ± 2.1 Ma and 117.5 ± 4.5 Ma, respectively. Titanite U–Pb age of amphibolite is 122.2 ± 1.5 Ma. Overall, our data suggest that the metamorphic sole and SSZ ophiolite were exhumed since 128–118 Ma, and finally exhumed into the ophiolitic mélange.

The origin of calcite in calc‐silicate rocks from the Kokchetav ultrahigh‐pressure metamorphic complex

AbstractUnderstanding calcite genesis in ultrahigh‐pressure crustal rocks is a key to the reconstruction of the evolution of ultrahigh‐pressure metacarbonate rocks. Here, we present new data and a new model on the genesis and the P–T conditions of the formation of calcite found in the ultrahigh‐pressure calc‐silicate rocks from the Kokchetav massif. In the studied sample aragonite inclusions coexist with Type A calcite inclusions (previously interpreted as mineral inclusions) and the inclusions of Type B calcite (previously interpreted as derived from the crystallization of carbonatitic melt) in cores of garnet porphyroblasts. The most Mg‐rich calcite from Type A inclusions coexisting with aragonite inclusions in one garnet growth zone shows XCa = 0.935 implying their crystallization during a retrograde metamorphic stage at P ~ 2.3 GPa and T ~ 870°C along the P–T path. Type A calcite and aragonite inclusions were also found coexisting in one growth zone with K‐bearing clinopyroxene inclusion (ω[K2O] = 0.5 wt.%). Such a high K2O‐content in clinopyroxene testify that the pressure of inclusion capture exceeded 3.5 GPa, which contradicts the P–T conditions estimated by XCa in magnesian calcite. Thus, Type A calcite inclusions were initially captured as an aggregate of aragonite+ magnesian calcite at ultrahigh pressure metamorphic stage (P ≥ 3.5 GPa, T = 900–1,000°C) and then re‐equilibrated at lower conditions (P ≤ 2.3 GPa and T ≤ 870°C). The trace element composition of aragonite and Type A and Type B calcite from inclusions was also studied to clarify calcite genesis in these inclusions. Aragonite shows high LREE (5–57 ppm) and Sr‐content (600–800 ppm). Calcite from Type A inclusions shows low LREE (2.9–19.8 ppm) and Sr‐content (490–670 ppm). Calcite from Type B inclusions forms two groups according to the LREE and Sr content distribution (Type B1 and Type B2). Trace element distribution in Type B1 calcite is identical to that of Type A calcite, while Type B2 calcite shows high LREE (6.8–64.9 ppm) concentrations along with low Sr‐content (180–340 ppm). Type A and Type B1 calcite is interpreted to have been re‐equilibrated. Type B2 calcite inclusions crystallized from the hydrous carbonatitic melt.

Physical properties and crystal structure of near end-member oxy-dravite from the Beluga occurrence, Nunavut territory, Canada

AbstractOxy-dravite, ideally Na(Al2Mg)(Al5Mg)(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH)3(O), was found in a composition near its ideal end-member at the Beluga occurrence, Nunavut territory, Canada. It occurs in retrograde albite–muscovite–corundum–calcite domains in a calc-silicate rock. This uncommon oxy-dravite occurs as dark brown, equant to short-prismatic, idiomorphic crystals with vitreous lustre and up to ca. 4 × 3 cm in size. The oxy-dravite is optically uniaxial (–), with ω = 1.6453(5) and ɛ = 1.6074(18); its calculated density is 3.069 g.cm–3 with a compatibility index of 0.016. The Beluga oxy-dravite has trigonal symmetry, space group R3m with a = 15.9121(2) Å, c = 7.1788(10) Å, V = 1574.12(5) Å3 and Z = 3. The crystal structure was refined to R1 = 1.45 using 1613 unique reflections. The empirical crystal-chemical formula is X(Na0.88Ca0.08□0.03K0.01)Y(Al1.49Mg1.31Fe0.15Ti0.04Zn0.01)Z(Al5.42Mg0.58)T(Si5.84Al0.16O18)B(BO3)3V(OH2.95O0.05)W(O0.84OH0.01F0.15).Oxy-dravite in nature commonly occurs in a solid solution with foitite, schorl and oxy-schorl. At the Beluga occurrence, its minor contents of Al, vacancy [□], and Ca are most likely compensated by (□Al)(NaR2+)–1 and (CaMg)(NaAl)–1 exchanges of the oxy-magnesio-foitite and magnesio-lucchesiite components. The Beluga occurrence of oxy-dravite is characterised by an Mg-rich environment related to a metamorphic overprint of the original sedimentary sequence. This sequence of marine dolomitic argillaceous marl was influenced by (B,Cl)-rich fluids, probably proximally-derived from mineral breakdown reactions in the calc-silicate during the retrograde stage of metamorphism. The locality is a rare example of a tourmaline + corundum assemblage.

Vývoj metamorfních fluid pozdního stádia regionální metamorfózy v keprnické klenbě silezika

Neo-Proterozoic rocks (Brunovistulian Unit) are dominant in the studied area of Silesicum, which have complex nappe, thick-skinned and thrust sheet geological structures. The Keprník Dome (Keprník nappe) represents the easternmost part of crystalline complexes of the Silesian domain and is dominated by various types of orthogneiss, gneiss, mica schist and phyllite, with a small occurrence of calc-silicate rocks. These rocks are affected by pre-Variscan and Variscan metamorphism, dominantly staurolite-sillimanite and garnet zone and late Variscan to Cenozoic brittle deformation. Hydrothermal Variscan quartz veins and surrounding rocks (biotite-bearing paragneiss and orthogneiss) were studied in the Keprník dome geological unit to confront the type of fluids enclosed in fluid inclusions and the intensity of metamorphism that affected the host rocks. The study of fluid inclusions in quartz veins was supplemented by Raman spectrometry and microscopic study of rocks, EMPA and mineral thermometry. Temperatures 616 to 643 °C obtained by the Ti-in-biotite method for biotite paragneisses are compatible with the peak metamorphic conditions estimated by previous authors. Thermometer for orthogneiss provided temperatures between 688 to 699 °C using the Ti-in-biotite thermometer. The lower temperatures (483 to 529 °C) obtained using magnetite-ilmenite thermometer document later retrogression. Three types of fluids were found in the quartz of the Variscan hydrothermal veins based on the phases present, respectively components: I. L+V, H2O–NaCl ± K+ ± Mg2+ ± Ca2+, II. L+V+S±S2, H2O–NaCl–CaCl2 ± K+ ± Mg2+, III. L1+L2+V, H2O–NaCl–CO2 ± CH4 ± K+ ± Mg2+ ± Ca2+ (L – liquid, V – vapour, S – solid). Type II inclusions contain aqueous fluids with high salinities, which would correspond to the post-Variscan systems found (Slobodník et al. 2010a, 2020) in the Silesicum area. On the other hand, they have high Th temperatures, reaching values of over 300 °C. Only results from type I could be used to calculate isochores and derive P-T conditions for the formation of Variscan veins, because in type III often occur fluid inclusion decrepitation and the impossibility of measuring total homogenization. Types I and III according to the structural position of fluid inclusion (uncertain or primary and pseudosecondary inclusions), microthermometric data and composition, they are considered to be metamorphic types of fluids generated by Variscan metamorphism. The evaluation of isochores of the first type of fluids using a lithostatic thermobaric gradient (50 °C/270 bar/km) indicates the entrapment of fluids, or formation of inclusions under conditions of 190–300 °C and 90–160 MPa. This type of fluid was very likely captured at a later stage of metamorphism, after the crystallization of magnetite and ilmenite, and represents a retrograde stage of metamorphism.

Evolution of Olivine Fabrics During Deep Subduction and Exhumation of Continental Crust: Insights From the Yinggelisayi Garnet Lherzolite, South Altyn, NW China

AbstractThe different olivine fabrics in ultramafic rocks have been widely used to discuss past tectonic settings, given that the olivine fabrics vary with pressure, temperature and water content. However, there are no research related to whether and how the olivine fabrics transform at different metamorphic stages in a natural rock during the process of deep subduction and exhumation. Yinggelisayi garnet lherzolites from South Altyn have experienced deep continental subduction and exhumation. The garnet lherzolites contain well‐preserved residual protolith minerals, and near‐peak (M1), granulite‐facies retrograde (M2), and amphibolite‐facies retrograde (M3) metamorphic mineral assemblages. Olivine grains in M1 formed at P‐T conditions of 2.52–3.08 GPa, 1,095–1,136°C and low water contents (183–213 ppm H/Si), and showed [010] axes sub‐normal to the foliation and [001] axes subparallel to the lineation, which is characteristic of B‐type fabric ((010)[001]). Olivine grains in M2 formed at P‐T conditions of 1.31–1.80 GPa, 851–893°C and also low water contents (93–139 ppm H/Si), and exhibited [010] axes sub‐normal to the foliation and [100] axes subparallel to the lineation, which is characteristic of A‐type fabric ((010)[100]). These observations suggest that olivine fabrics in high pressure‐ultrahigh pressure metamorphosed ultramafic rocks are different in the near‐peak and retrograde metamorphic stages, and also that the olivine fabrics can be transformed during deep continental subduction and exhumation. Therefore, the dispersed or no clear olivine fabric is probably caused by multi‐stage deformation and metamorphism, and the distinct olivine fabrics can also be used as a clue to identify geological processes and better understand metamorphism and deformation during subduction and exhumation.

FERROHÖGBOMITE-2S2N IN THE DIATEXITES OF WESTERN SANGILEN, SOUTH-EASTERN TUVA, RUSSIA

In the Western Sangilen (Tuva–Mongolia microcontinent, Central Asian Orogenic Belt, Russia) rare mineral ferrohögbomite-2S2N, for the first time, was found in a deep-seated contact aureole of the early Paleozoic Bayan-Kol gabbro-monzodiorite intrusion. The rocks are diatexites of roof pendant, where metamorphics contact gabbronorite. Diatexites formed as a result of strong melting and desilication of quartz-bearing kyanite-staurolite schists (M1) during progressive thermal metamorphism (M2) near the Bayan-Kol intrusion with peak at 950 °C, 7–8 kbars. Ferrohögbomite-2S2N grains up to 50 μm in size found in ilmenite-corundum-magnetite-hercynite pseudomorphs. The later formed during progressive stage of thermal metamorphism M2 after regional staurolite M1 and are in cordierite-gedrite-plagioclase restite blocks of diatexites. Ferrohögbomite also appeared as thin (1–5 μm) rims around individual grains of hercynite, corundum and magnetite in a rock matrix. According to microtextural features ferrohögbomite grains formed during post-peak metamorphic stage after minerals of pseudomorphs. A univariant mineral reaction of ferrohögbomite-2S2N formation calculated quantitatively in Fe-Al-Ti-Zn-H2O system with program Mathematic 9.0 using electron microprobe chemical composition of minerals of pseudomorphs. The reaction is 0.96Spl+0.194Ilm+0.116Mag+0.036Crn+0.163H2O=0.163Hgb. A local equilibrium value during formation of ferrohögbomite was probably correlated with pseudomorphs size and thus do not transcend 1 mm3. Thermobarometry yields metamorphic temperature and pressure of ferrohögbomite formation as T=665 °C, P=5.8 kbar, which correspond to late retrograde stage of thermal metamorphism of diatexites. To present day in Russia, högbomite group mineral was known only on South Urals and Aldan Shield in Eastern Siberia.

Thermobaric Conditions for Exhumation of Ti-clinohumite Garnetites of the Kokchetav Subduction-Collision Zone (Northern Kazakhstan)

Abstract —A new variety of Ti-clinohumite garnetites (‘garnet peridotites’) of the diamond-bearing Kumdy Kol terrane in the Kokchetav massif has been studied. An ultrahigh-pressure phase, Ti-chondrodite, orthopyroxene and contrast-zoned garnets of retrograde zoning have been found in these rocks for the first time. Ti-chondrodite and orthopyroxene were not described in these rocks earlier, and garnet composition was supposed to be homogeneous. Based on the character of chemical zoning of garnet and orthopyroxene, the peak and three retrograde parageneses for these minerals have been distinguished. Using the garnet–orthopyroxene geothermobarometry, for the Kumdy Kol terrane, based on the quantitative P–T estimates of Ti-clinohumite garnetites, a detailed retrograde P–T trend has been constructed for the first time; this trend includes the UHP peak stage (55–57 kbar, 1075–1120 °С), and three stages of retrograde metamorphism under UHP (32 kbar, 830 °С), HP (21 kbar, 750 °С), and MP (12 kbar, 740 °С) conditions. For the Kumdy Kol terrane this is the most detailed Р–Т trend indicating subisothermal decompression during crustal rock exhumation from the mantle depths (~170 km) to the lower-crust conditions (~36 km). The above-mentioned mineralogical findings allowed reconstructing all the described metamorphism stages, using the same rock and various generations of the same minerals (garnet and orthopyroxene) formed at different stages of tectono–metamorphic evolution of the Kumdy Kol terrane. Preservation of the relics for mineral zoning of the early metamorphic stages seemed to be due to high uplift velocities resulted in rapid decrease in P–T parameters and short duration of regressive metamorphism. The virtually complete identity of the obtained P–T trend for the Kumdy Kol terrane and the P–T trend for the Barchi terrane supports the idea of the common tectono–metamorphic evolution of the whole western (diamond-bearing) part of the Kokchetav massif.

Mixing, fluid infiltration, leaching, and deformation (MILD) processes on the slab-mantle wedge interface at high T and P conditions: Records from the Dalrymple Amphibolite, Philippines

The whole rock compositions of the blocks and the surrounding matrix of the Dalrymple Amphibolite are investigated in this study to determine the protolith of the blocks and the effect of mechanical mixing and fluid infiltration in the matrix of this fossil slab-mantle wedge interface. The major and trace element contents of the metamafic blocks indicate their mid-oceanic ridge basalt origin similar to the mafic lavas of the crustal section of central Palawan Ophiolite. Similarities in their rare earth and trace element patterns indicate the genetic relationship between the mafic lavas of the Palawan Ophiolite and the metamafic blocks of the Dalrymple Amphibolite. This confirms that the metamafic blocks represent the basalt to gabbro section of the oceanic lithosphere of the subducting slab.The matrix surrounding the blocks exhibit highly variable phase assemblages. In order to determine its petrogenesis, we distinguished groups of components/elements which behave similarly (Group 1 TiO2, Al2O3, Zr, Th and the light rare earth elements; Group 2 Cr, Ni and MgO) based on statistical (correlation coefficient) analyses. These groups indicate mixing of metasedimentary (Group 1) and metamafic (Group 2) end-members to form the matrix. The mixing proportions of the end-members were estimated by employing regression analysis wherein the measured concentration of fluid immobile elements (Cr, Ni, Zr, TiO2 and Al2O3) in the matrix samples were fitted against a modelled concentration by changing the end-member and their relative proportions. The end-members and mixing ratio with the highest regression value (r2) was selected to obtain the modelled composition of the matrix. The modelled and the measured matrix compositions were then used as the original (unmetasomatized) rock and the altered rock respectively in the isocon analysis, assuming that TiO2, Al2O3, Cr, Nd, Zr, and Hf are immobile. This assumption is supported by the prevalence of kyanite, ilmenite and zircon in the matrix mineral assemblage.This procedural workflow helped distinguish end-member components, estimate their mixing ratios, and determine the effects of infiltrating fluids. In particular, the whole rock composition of the matrix was controlled by mixing of a subordinate amount of metamafic blocks in a metasedimentary-dominated shear zone. This is supported by the Cr-Nb content of rutile grains included in the matrix samples which indicate mixed metamafic and metapelitic signatures. The metamafic-metasedimentary dominated matrix in the Dalrymple Amphibolite contrasts with other high-pressure/temperature (P/T) type metamorphic terranes which are dominated by low T minerals (serpentine, Mg-chlorite, and talc) derived from an ultramafic end-member, and could be reflective of conditions in warmer subduction zones. Mass balance calculations further revealed that an early fluid infiltration event likely occurred following the mixing process. This preferentially leached out elements which are either fluid-mobile (e.g. CaO and SiO2) or are not incorporated into the growing minerals in the matrix. The strong control of mineral assemblage of the matrix in its chemistry is exhibited by a number of samples which showed variable degrees of losses and gains in elements traditionally interpreted to be fluid immobile (e.g. heavy rare earth elements and Y). A later hydration event linked to retrograde metamorphic stage imprinted gains of K2O, Rb, and Ba in the matrix samples with the growth of replacement minerals (e.g. muscovite on kyanite). This later fluid infiltration event possibly masked the original loss of these fluid-mobile elements in the matrix samples during the earlier fluid-rock interaction.

Neoarchean ultrahigh-temperature sapphirine granulites from the Karimnagar Granulite Terrane, Southern India: Implications for hot orogen along the Eastern Dharwar Craton margin

We have uncovered evidence of Neoarchean ultrahigh-temperature (UHT) metamorphism in the Karimnagar Granulite Terrane (KGT), southern India, based on new petrological and mineralogical data of sapphirine-bearing and related granulites. We investigated their petrogenesis and implications of a hot orogen along the north-eastern margin of the Eastern Dharwar Craton (EDC). We found various reaction textures, such as spinel mantled by sapphirine and hydration of orthopyroxene, indicating a peak mineral assemblage of cordierite + sapphirine + spinel + orthopyroxene + biotite + rutile + K-feldspar. Phase-equilibria modelling in the Na2O–CaO–K2O–FeO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O–TiO2–Fe2O3 system indicates peak metamorphic conditions of 905 °C–910 °C and 4.5–4.6 kbar. The peak stage was followed by a retrograde metamorphic stage represented by increasing modal abundance of biotite and consumption of rutile and spinel at ~730 °C and ~ 4 kbar, suggesting near-isobaric cooling. Using the chemical Th–U-Pbtotal isochron method, we dated monazites in textural association with sapphirines and cordierites in a sapphirine–spinel–orthopyroxene–cordierite granulite. The resulting Neoarchean age (2638 ± 44 Ma) probably represents the timing of peak UHT metamorphism. We infer that Neoarchean UHT metamorphism and post-peak near-isobaric cooling took place in the terrane during the terminal stage of complex accretion–collision tectonic processes related to amalgamation of microcontinents and/or magmatic arcs that occurred during 2.70–2.62 Ga, one of the major episodic crust-forming events in the EDC. Our findings and regional distribution of lithologies overturn the existing tectonic model of the KGT as a collisional suture zone between the EDC and the Bastar Craton. Moreover, we propose that the KGT is a discrete tectonic block composed of ~2.7–2.6-Ga granulites and younger granite representing the mid-crustal segment of the EDC, which was uplifted as a tilted tectonic block along the southern flank of the Kadam outlier.

Protoliths and metamorphism of the central Himalayan eclogites: Zircon/titanite U–Pb geochronology, Hf isotope and geochemistry

The high-pressure (HP) eclogites in the central Himalaya provide insights into the metamorphism and exhumation history of crustal material beneath the Tibetan plateau. Due to the paucity of exposure, the nature and timing of the protolith and metamorphism of the eclogites remain poorly known. Here we report zircon and titanite U–Pb ages, bulk-rock and mineral compositions and zircon Hf isotope data on the eclogites from the Thongmön and Kharta areas in the central Himalaya. The eclogites record peak HP eclogite-facies metamorphism at >1.6 GPa, high-temperature to ultrahigh-temperature (HT-UHT) granulite-facies overprinting (ca. 0.88–0.99 GPa and 875–920 °C), and subsequent decompression-cooling retrograde metamorphism (ca. 0.42–0.62 GPa and 800–820 °C). Geochemical data suggest that the eclogite protoliths are most consistent with being seafloor tholeiitic basalts with an E-MORB signature. Inherited magmatic zircon cores from the eclogites give a protolith age of ∼450 Ma and εHf(t) values of + 3.2 to + 7.0. Metamorphic overgrown mantles or some rims of zircon record an early decompression granulite-facies metamorphic stage (∼17.9–15.3 Ma); other metamorphic overgrown rims and metamorphic growth zircons reflect later decompression-cooling retrograde metamorphic stage (∼14.8–13.3 Ma). The titanite U–Pb age (∼15.4 Ma) further indicates the beginning of the later retrograde metamorphism. All these data and observations allow the proposal that in contrast to the ultrahigh-pressure (UHP) eclogites in the western Himalaya, the HP eclogites in the central Himalaya record the long-lived burial and relatively slow exhumation of the Indian continental crust since initial Indo-Asia collision at ∼55 Ma.

Multi-stage metamorphism and deformation of the North Qinling Orogenic Belt: Constraints from petrology, geochronology, and structural analysis of the Qinling Complex

The Qinling Complex is the only continental nucleus that outcrops in the North Qinling Orogenic Belt (NQOB) and preserves valuable evolutionary information of NQOB during the early Paleozoic. There are many high-pressure (HP)–ultrahigh-pressure (UHP) metamorphic rocks distributed in the northern and southern parts of the Qinling Complex. Whether the central part (namely the Qihe tectonic slab) underwent a similar HP–UHP metamorphism and what the relationship among different tectonic slabs of Qinling Complex is, are the key to revealing the formation and exhumation process of these HP–UHP rocks. Four episodes of deformation (D1–4) have been recognized in the Qinling Complex. The metamorphic pressure‐temperature conditions of syn-D3 amphibolite in the Qihe tectonic slab are limited to 3.3–6.4 Kbar and 479–538 ℃ based on equilibrium modeling, corresponding to an extensional tectonic setting. The U-Pb dating of the amphibolite yielded a protolith age of 714 ± 46 Ma, an eclogite-facies metamorphic age of 514 ± 4 Ma, and two stages of retrograde metamorphism at 462 ± 3 Ma and 418 ± 5 Ma. The parametamorphic rocks of different tectonic slabs have similar detrital zircon age spectra, which is a very different pattern from adjacent areas of the Qinling Complex. The consistency in the protolith ages, peak metamorphic ages, two stages of retrograde metamorphism, and detrital zircon age from different tectonic slabs in the Qinling Complex indicate that HP–UHP metamorphic rocks from Qinling Complex formed during the same tectonic event. Therefore, the Qinling Complex evolved in deep subduction and underwent eclogite facies metamorphism, followed by superimposed deformation structures and retrograde metamorphism during the two stages of exhumation.

An early high-pressure history preceeded pelitic ultrahigh-temperature granulite formation in the Tuguiwula area, Khondalite Belt, North China Craton

Following the first petrological studies on UHT metamorphic pelitic granulite of the Tuguiwula area, Jining complex, North China Craton, considerable work has been done in the past decades that revealed an anti-clockwise P-T path, reaching a maximum pressure range at ca.10 kbar. In this study, we re-investigated pelitic granulite from this locality and determined four distinct metamorphic stages, Pmax (M2), Tmax (M3), cooling (M4), and decompression (M5), which document a clockwise P-T trajectory, providing evidence for an early high-pressure metamorphic scenario at pressures >11.8 kbar. The Pmax (M2) conditions were calculated using garnet domains with highest XCa (grt) isopleths, which contain inclusions of kyanite. The entire mineral assemblage in equilibrium is Grt + Ky + Qz + Rt + Kfs + liq ± Ilm, suggesting minimum pressures of 11.8 kbar. The Tmax metamorphism (M3) is characterized by the assemblage Grt + Qz + Pl + Ilm + Kfs + Sil + liq. Geothermobarometrical studies which include two-feldspar geothermometry and Zr-in-rutile thermometry yields a P-T range of 990 °C−995 °C and 9–10 kbar, indicating an ultra-high temperature (UHT) metamorphic overprint. The subsequent retrograde metamorphic stages M4 and M5 are characterized by the formation of Bt + Sil + Qz + symplectites and cordierite replacing garnet rims, suggesting P-T conditions of 840 °C−960 °C/8.5–9.5 kbar and 800 °C−850 °C/5.5–6.8 kbar, respectively. SHRIMP U-Pb age dating provided a weighted mean 207Pb/206Pb age of 1911.6 ± 4.5 Ma that represents the timing of the UHT metamorphic stage. The current study on pelitic granulite documents two novel results which have a significant impact on the geotectonic evolution: (1) a clockwise P-T path instead of an anticlockwise one was derived, and (2) P-T estimates are much higher than those reported from previous studies of both, pressure and temperature. The available P-T data of the pre-HP metamorphic stage together with the clockwise P-T trajectory, UHT-, cooling- and decompression-stages of the current study reflect a possible collision or subduction origin.

The P-T-t path of pelitic gneisses in the Zanhuang Complex: Further constraints on the Palaeoproterozoic tectonic evolution of the Trans-North China Orogen, North China Craton

The Zanhuang Complex, situated on the eastern margin of the central section of the Trans-North China Orogen (TNCO), North China Craton, mainly comprises Archean-Palaeoproterozoic tonalite-trondhjemite-granodiorite (TTG) gneisses, migmatites, granites, metavolcanic rocks, and metasedimentary rocks. Petrographic observations of garnet-bearing pelitic gneisses from the south-eastern Zanhuang Complex show three distinct mineral assemblages (M1-M3) that correspond to three different metamorphic stages. The interpreted prograde metamorphic stage (M1) is mainly represented by the cores of garnet porphyroblasts with fine-grained inclusions of biotite + plagioclase + staurolite + kyanite + quartz + ilmenite. The peak metamorphic stage (M2) is mainly represented by garnet mantles and a matrix-type mineral assemblage of kyanite + biotite + plagioclase + quartz + ilmenite + melt. The retrograde metamorphic stage (M3) is represented by the presence of sillimanite with garnet rims + biotite + plagioclase + quartz + ilmenite + magnetite. Quantitative phase equilibria modelling constrains the pressure–temperature (P–T) conditions of the M1 and M2 stages to 640–670 °C/7.3–7.5 kbar and 705–760 °C/7.9–9.1 kbar, respectively. The zircons and monazites in the Zanhuang pelitic gneisses all record consistent ages of 1839–1831 Ma, which most likely represent the near-peak metamorphic age. Thus, a clockwise P-T-time (P-T-t) path is determined for the garnet-bearing pelitic gneisses from the Zanhuang Complex. The petrological and geochronological evidence from the pelitic gneisses in the Zanhuang Complex in this paper suggests that the TNCO might have experienced continuous continental collision and rapid tectonic uplift at ca. 1839–1831 Ma, thereby providing a metamorphic constraint on the Palaeoproterozoic tectonic evolution of the TNCO.

Zircon from diamondiferous kyanite gneisses of the Kokchetav massif: Revealing growth stages using an integrated cathodoluminescence, Raman spectroscopy and electron microprobe approach

AbstractZircon crystals from diamondiferous kyanite gneisses of the Barchi-Kol area (Kokchetav massif, Northern Kazakhstan) have been investigated by a combined application of cathodoluminescence (CL), Raman spectroscopy and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). The zircon crystals exhibit up to four distinct domains characterised by significantly different CL signatures and parameters of the ν3(SiO4) (1008 cm–1) Raman band (i.e. full width at half maximum, position and intensity). Extremely metamict zircon cores (Domain I) host inclusions of low-pressure minerals (quartz and graphite) and the outer mantles (Domain III) are populated by ultrahigh-pressure relicts (diamond and coesite), whereas inner mantles (Domain II) and overgrowth rim zones (Domain IV) are inclusion free. Both the zircon cores and rims have very low Ti concentrations, implying formation temperatures below 760°C. The Ti content in the inner mantles (up to 40 ppm) is indicative of temperatures in the 760–880°C range. The temperature estimates for the outer mantles are 900–940°C, indicating a pronounced overlap with the peak metamorphic values yielded by the Zr-in-rutile geothermometer for the same rocks (910–950°C). The internal textures of the zircons and the occurrence of index minerals within the distinct domains allow us to unravel the stages of the complex metamorphic history recorded in the zircon. Our data show that the zircon cores are inherited seeds of pre-metamorphic (magmatic?) origin, the inner mantles were formed on the prograde metamorphic stage, the outer mantles record ultrahigh-pressure metamorphism and the outermost rims mark the retrograde metamorphic stage. The observed zircon internal textures are thus clearly correlated with distinct growth events, and in some examples reflect a major part of the metamorphic history. It is concluded that the combined application of the CL, Raman spectroscopy and EPMA techniques to zircon offers significant potential for deciphering the metamorphic evolution of deeply-subducted rocks.

Late Paleozoic geodynamic evolution of the western North Patagonian Massif and its tectonic context along the southwestern Gondwana margin

In this study, we propose a geodynamic model covering sedimentation, metamorphism, magmatism, and exhumation processes for the western North Patagonian Massif basement. The youngest detrital zircon population ages (ca. 369 ± 8 Ma) obtained in a schist sample constrains the sedimentation stage to the Carboniferous Period. A first prograde metamorphic stage (M1-D1) produced the main foliation (S1) under greenschist conditions (~ 500 °C; < 4.5 Kbars). This stage was possibly linked to the regional Carboniferous magmatism event (330–300 Ma). The Permian magmatism (ca. 290 Ma) likely induced partial melting and migmatization of the deepest metasedimentary suite. This event corresponds to the second prograde metamorphic stage (M2) that reached amphibolite conditions (690 °C and 6.5 Kbars). The beginning of the basement uplift corresponds to the first retrograde metamorphic stage possibly developed during Permian – Triassic times (265–235 Ma). This event was triggered by NE-SW compression (σ1) and developed folds (D2-F2), second foliation (S2), micro-textural quartz deformation, and a retrograde evolution path for the garnet-bearing lithofacies. The final stage of the basement exhumation corresponds to the second retrograde metamorphic stage (D3) developed by NNW-SSE compression and linked to open folds (F3) in the Cushamen Formation. The characteristics of the western North Patagonian Massif geodynamic evolution and the adjacent basement regions suggest a paleotectonic subduction setting for the southwestern Gondwana margin during the late Paleozoic times.

Metamorphic evolution and U-Pb geochronology of metapelite, northeastern Wutai Complex: Implications for Paleoproterozoic tectonic evolution of the Trans-North China Orogen

The Wutai Complex lies in the middle part of the Trans-North China Orogen, mainly consisting of metamorphosed volcanic-sedimentary rocks (named as “Wutai Group”) and Late Archean TTG gneisses. Garnet biotite schist from the northeastern part of the Wutai Group (lower Shizui Subgroup) mainly consists of garnet porphyroblast plus biotite, staurolite, kyanite, sillimanite/fibrolite, plagioclase, quartz as well as accessory minerals including ilmenite, magnetite, hematite, apatite, monazite and zircon. Petrographic observation and mineral chemistry indicate that these metapelites underwent the sequential prograde (M1), peak (M2) and retrograde (M3) metamorphic stages. Geothermobarometry computation and phase equilibrium modelling show that the representative samples record clockwise P-T paths passing from 3–7 kbar/570–630 °C (M1) through 9–10 kbar/615–660 °C (M2P) to 6–9 kbar/655–680 °C (M2T) and finally to a speculated exhumation stage (M3), indicative of orogenic metamorphism. SRHIMP and LA-ICP-MS U-Pb dating on inherited detrital zircons yielded three age peaks of ~2.7 Ga, ~2.5 Ga and ~2.1 Ga. The youngest 207Pb/206Pb age of 2064 ± 21 Ma of detrital zircon possibly constrains the maximum depositional age of the Shizui Subgroup. SIMS and SHRIMP U-Pb dating of metamorphic monazite and zircon constrain the metamorphic age of the garnet-bearing mica schist to be 1853–1823 Ma. Combined with previous data, the Wutai Complex was demonstrated to have been involved in a prolonged subduction-collision process (1.97–1.82 Ga) between the Western and Eastern Blocks in the Paleoproterozoic.

Tectono-metamorphic evolution of the Calabria continental lower crust: the case of the Sila Piccola Massif

A combined structural and petrological study focuses on the Sila Piccola Massif to obtain new constraints on the exhumation history of a relic fragment of the intermediate to deep portion of the Variscan basement, which now belongs to the northern Calabria Peloritani Orogen. The timescale of the early (i.e. late-Variscan) shear-assisted exhumation stage is determined by diffusion-modelling and the strain rate of the latest (i.e. Alpine) shear event is determined by microstructurally derived paleopiezometry. The intermediate to deep portion of the Sila basement is characterised by a pervasive mylonitic horizon involving orthogneiss and, to a lesser extent, garnet paragneiss. Such a pervasive mylonitic foliation widely obliterated an older metamorphic fabric, which is preserved as relics in low-strain domains. The pre-mylonitic relics consist of plagioclase, biotite, white mica, sillimanite, quartz and the first generation of chemically homogeneous garnet. Our results show that the later mylonitization can be ascribed to two metamorphic stages. The first stage is associated with a late-Variscan extensional shearing, which shows a syn-kinematic growth of a second-generation garnet with plagioclase, biotite and quartz developed in the pressure shadows of garnet porphyroclasts likely during an early retrograde metamorphic stage. The second stage, characterised by a syn-shearing growth of chlorite, white mica, plagioclase and quartz, observed along the C-planes, is interpreted as a late Alpine mylonitic overprint in compressional regime.

Zircon U–Pb geochronology and clockwise P–T evolution of garnet-bearing migmatites from the Qinling complex in the Weiziping area of the Qinling Orogen, Central China: Implications for thermal relaxation after crustal thickening

Zircon U–Pb dating and phase equilibrium modeling in the Na2O–CaO–K2O–FeO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O–TiO2–O2 system were carried out to garnet-bearing migmatites from the Qinling Complex in the Weiziping area of the Qinling Orogen, Central China, to constrain their metamorphic P–T path and elucidate the tectonic setting and geodynamic mechanism of Early to Middle Devonian high-temperature (HT) metamorphism in the North Qinling Belt. The mesosomes of the migmatites are composed of garnet-bearing biotite–hornblende–plagioclase and biotite–plagioclase gneisses, and the leucosomes can be divided into two types: wide leucosomes that were deformed, and narrow penetrative leucosomes. Laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA–ICP–MS) zircon U–Pb analyses yielded weighted mean 206Pb/238U ages of 398.8 ± 4.7, 394.6 ± 2.6, 399.5 ± 7.3, 372.5 ± 4.2, 370.8 ± 4.3, and 368.5 ± 4.2 Ma for metamorphic zircons within the sampled mesosomes, and a weighted mean age of 408.7 ± 5.7 Ma for igneous zircons within a deformed leucosome. Based on the published data and the results in this study, the timing of granulite-facies metamorphism is constrained to be ca. 409–395 Ma. The mesosome sample (garnet-bearing biotite–hornblende–plagioclase gneiss) has a peak mineral assemblage of garnet, biotite, plagioclase, hornblende, quartz, ilmenite, and melt, which equilibrated at P–T condition of 8.5–9.7 kbar at 745–820 °C as constrained by isopleths of XAn and XPy in a P–T pseudosection, suggesting that these gneisses underwent medium-pressure granulite-facies metamorphism. Conventional garnet–biotite–plagioclase–quartz (GBPQ) geothermobarometry yielded P–T conditions of 703 °C at 10 kbar and 685–748 °C at 7.1–8.9 kbar, which correspond to prograde and retrograde metamorphic stages, respectively. On the basis of these P–T results, the studied samples document a clockwise P–T path characterized by temperature increase and pressure decrease during the prograde stage, and temperature decrease and pressure decrease during the retrograde stage. Ti-in-zircon thermometry yielded a temperature range of 781–793 °C for metamorphic zircons from the mesosomes, further demonstrating that they underwent granulite-facies metamorphism at ca. 409–395 Ma. The prograde metamorphic stage characterized by temperature increase and pressure decrease suggests that thermal relaxation after crustal thickening has induced the partial melting and migmatization. Thus, the crustal thickening that may be caused by continental collision between the North China Block and the South China Block should occur no later than ca. 409 Ma.

Boron isotope record of peak metamorphic ultrahigh-pressure and retrograde fluid\u2013rock interaction in white mica (Lago di Cignana, Western Alps)

This study presents boron (B) concentration and isotope data for white mica from (ultra)high-pressure (UHP), subduction-related metamorphic rocks from Lago di Cignana (Western Alps, Italy). These rocks are of specific geological interest, because they comprise the most deeply subducted rocks of oceanic origin worldwide. Boron geochemistry can track fluid–rock interaction during their metamorphic evolution and provide important insights into mass transfer processes in subduction zones. The highest B contents (up to 345 μg/g B) occur in peak metamorphic phengite from a garnet–phengite quartzite. The B isotopic composition is variable (δ11B = − 10.3 to − 3.6%) and correlates positively with B concentrations. Based on similar textures and major element mica composition, neither textural differences, prograde growth zoning, diffusion nor a retrograde overprint can explain this correlation. Modelling shows that B devolatilization during metamorphism can explain the general trend, but fails to account for the wide compositional and isotopic variability in a single, well-equilibrated sample. We, therefore, argue that this trend represents fluid–rock interaction during peak metamorphic conditions. This interpretation is supported by fluid–rock interaction modelling of boron leaching and boron addition that can successfully reproduce the observed spread in δ11B and [B]. Taking into account the local availability of serpentinites as potential source rocks of the fluids, the temperatures reached during peak metamorphism that allow for serpentine dehydration, and the high positive δ11B values (δ11B = 20 ± 5) modelled for the fluids, an influx of serpentinite-derived fluid appears likely. Paragonite in lawsonite pseudomorphs in an eclogite and phengite from a retrogressed metabasite have B contents between 12 and 68 μg/g and δ11B values that cluster around 0% (δ11B = − 5.0 to + 3.5). White mica in both samples is related to distinct stages of retrograde metamorphism during exhumation of the rocks. The variable B geochemistry can be successfully modelled as fluid–rock interaction with low-to-moderate (< 3) fluid/rock ratios, where mica equilibrates with a fluid into which B preferentially partitions, causing leaching of B from the rock. The metamorphic rocks from Lago di Cignana show variable retention of B in white mica during subduction-related metamorphism and exhumation. The variability in the B geochemical signature in white mica is significant and enhances our understanding of metamorphic processes and their role in element transfer in subduction zones.

Four Stages of the Thermal Evolution of Eclogites from the Maksyutov Complex (South Urals)

Abstract —Based on a detailed electron probe microanalysis of the composition and zoning of coexisting minerals (garnet, clinopyroxene, and plagioclase), we have studied the P–T conditions of formation of high-pressure (HP/UHP) rocks of the Maksyutov eclogite–blueschist complex in the South Urals. We have established its periodic evolution and have determined the specific thermodynamic parameters of mineral formation at each stage of its geodynamic history, from the conditions of crystallization of the protolith to the final stages of retrograde greenschist metamorphism. The new analytical data on the composition of coexisting phases confirm the high-pressure formation of eclogites present as numerous lenses, boudins, and interlayers among blueschist and feldspar–mica schists in the lower part of the complex. Thermobarometric calculations of metamorphism parameters were performed for the Grt + Cpx ± Pl + Qz paragenesis using a Grt–Cpx geothermometer and a Pl–Cpx–Qz geobarometer. Garnet in eclogites of the Maksyutov Complex, being conservative to changes in the P–T conditions, has a direct, reverse, or inverse chemical zoning. Under equilibrium of garnet with omphacitic clinopyroxene, this zoning records conjugate progressive and regressive P–T paths reflecting the thermodynamic conditions at the certain stages of the terrane evolution. Based on the data obtained, we have recognized at least four P–T stages of progressive metamorphic transformations of the Maksyutov Complex: (1) &amp;gt;800–910 °C/~2.5–3.5 GPa; (2) 540–790 °C/2.0–3.5 GPa; (3) 410–690 °C/1.1–2.5 GPa; and (4) 310–520 °C/1.0–1.2 GPa. The estimated P–T parameters of the conjugate regressive stages of metamorphism are as follows: (1) 870–625 °C/3.5–2.5 GPa; (2) 745–615 °C/3.5–2.0 GPa; (3) 690–550 °C/1.5–1.0 GPa; and (4) 590–460 °C/1.2–0.6 GPa, respectively. The age data for the certain stages, along with the parameters of metamorphism, form a single P–T–t path of the complex, which determines the position of the gradient of the metamorphic field during the complex exhumation.