Low-Sulfidation Epithermal Gold Deposits in East China: Characteristics, Types, and Setting

  • Mao, Jing-Wen (China University of Geosciences, Beijing, Institute of Mineral Resources, Chines Academy of Geological Sciences, Beijing) ;
  • Li, Xiao-Feng (Institute of Mineral Resources, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, Beijing) ;
  • Zhang, Zuo-Heng
  • Published : 2003.04.01

Abstract

We preliminarily describe the basic characteristics of the low-sulfidation epithermal gold deposits in East China. It can be divided into granite- and alkaline rock-related types. These gold deposits are structurally controlled by caldera, craters, diatremes and related faults, hosted in volcanic rocks, and characterized by alterations of adularia, chalcedony, quartz, sericite and calcite assemblages. The ore-forming ages are within three pulses of 180-188 Ma, 135-141 Ma, and ca. 120 Ma, which are geodynamically corresponding the collision orogenic process between North China and Yangtze cratons, transformation of the tectonic regime, and delamination of the lithosphere, respectively.

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