Wednesday, February 26, 2025
https://youtu.be/vJk3ezUeDUM
Source: https://shorturl.at/kedVm
This study examines the mineralizing fluids responsible for orogenic gold deposits at the Imonga prospect in the Karagwe-Ankole Belt (KAB) of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Through fluid inclusion analysis, microthermometry, Raman spectroscopy, and LA-ICP-MS, the researchers determined that gold-bearing fluids were low-salinity (3.1–7.0 eq. wt.% NaCl), aqueous-carbonic in nature, and of metamorphic origin. The mineralization occurred at temperatures of 350–400°C and pressures of 75–250 MPa, corresponding to depths of 7.6–9.6 km. Gold transport was facilitated by gold-sulfur complexes, with deposition triggered by interaction with Fe-rich host rocks and fluid pressure fluctuations related to fault-valve activity. These findings reinforce the structural control of gold mineralization in the region, with post-foliation quartz-carbonate veins being the primary hosts for economic gold deposits.
The study has significant implications for gold exploration, emphasizing key geochemical and structural indicators. The presence of CO2-rich, low-salinity fluids, Fe-rich alteration minerals (e.g., ferroan-dolomite), and post-foliation vein networks can guide prospecting efforts. Additionally, the study confirms that gold mineralization in the KAB is distinct from intrusion-related systems, as indicated by low concentrations of Rb, Sr, and Cs. Exploration strategies should focus on structurally controlled deformation zones with evidence of cyclic fluid activity. By integrating these findings, geologists can enhance targeting methods for orogenic gold in similar metamorphic terranes worldwide.
P. Geo. Ricardo A Valls, M. Sc. and Geo Gadfly
Valls Geoconsultant
ORCID ID- https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5421-0914
Scopus Author ID: 7003369619/35335510700
ResearcherID: S-6604-2018
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