Gold mineralization in an archaean granite-greenstone remnant west of Melmoth, Natal ore genesis and implications for exploration
- Authors: Bullen, Warwick David
- Date: 1991
- Subjects: Gold ores -- Geology -- South Africa , Greenstone belts -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4967 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005579 , Gold ores -- Geology -- South Africa , Greenstone belts -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Description: The previously undifferentiated, "Melmoth Granite-Greenstone Remnant" (MGGR¹) crops out over an area of about 360 km² in northern Natal, South Africa. The greenstone sequence is comprised mainly of mafic metalavas with lesser serpentinite, talc schist, dacitic tuff, quartz-muscovite schist, quartzite and calc-silicate rocks. The greenstones are intruded by syntectonic trondhjemitic gneisses, late-tectonic granodioritic gneisses and post-tectonic granite dykes. Four phases of deformation and metamorphism are recognized. Epigenetic, disseminated and quartz vein-hosted gold mineralization is associated with D₂ shearing - a positive correlation existing between the intensity of the shearing, the thickness of the shear zone and the grade of ore it contains. Auriferous quartz veins are distinguished from an earlier generation of barren vein quartz on the basis of mineralogy, texture and relationship to the s-fabric. The mineralization occurs in zones of dilation associated with shear zone refraction. Associated wall rock alteration includes sericitization, argillization and chloritization. An ore genesis model based on the aforementioned parameters, is proposed. Finally, an exploration programme has been devised in order to locate undiscovered gold deposits in the MGGR. The programme could probably be applied, with minor modifications, to shear zone-hosted gold deposits in other granite-greenstone remnants in northern Natal. ¹- Name suggested by writer.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1991
- Authors: Bullen, Warwick David
- Date: 1991
- Subjects: Gold ores -- Geology -- South Africa , Greenstone belts -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4967 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005579 , Gold ores -- Geology -- South Africa , Greenstone belts -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Description: The previously undifferentiated, "Melmoth Granite-Greenstone Remnant" (MGGR¹) crops out over an area of about 360 km² in northern Natal, South Africa. The greenstone sequence is comprised mainly of mafic metalavas with lesser serpentinite, talc schist, dacitic tuff, quartz-muscovite schist, quartzite and calc-silicate rocks. The greenstones are intruded by syntectonic trondhjemitic gneisses, late-tectonic granodioritic gneisses and post-tectonic granite dykes. Four phases of deformation and metamorphism are recognized. Epigenetic, disseminated and quartz vein-hosted gold mineralization is associated with D₂ shearing - a positive correlation existing between the intensity of the shearing, the thickness of the shear zone and the grade of ore it contains. Auriferous quartz veins are distinguished from an earlier generation of barren vein quartz on the basis of mineralogy, texture and relationship to the s-fabric. The mineralization occurs in zones of dilation associated with shear zone refraction. Associated wall rock alteration includes sericitization, argillization and chloritization. An ore genesis model based on the aforementioned parameters, is proposed. Finally, an exploration programme has been devised in order to locate undiscovered gold deposits in the MGGR. The programme could probably be applied, with minor modifications, to shear zone-hosted gold deposits in other granite-greenstone remnants in northern Natal. ¹- Name suggested by writer.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1991
The geology, petrology and geochemistry of the mineralization and hydrothermal alteration at Ongeama, Ongombo and Matchless West Extension, Namibia
- Authors: Moroni, Marilena
- Date: 1991
- Subjects: Geology -- Namibia , Petrology -- Namibia , Geochemistry -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5045 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007693 , Geology -- Namibia , Petrology -- Namibia , Geochemistry -- Namibia
- Description: The Matchless Amphibolite Belt (Damara Orogen, Namibia) hosts several volcanogenic-exhalative, sediment-hosted stratiform cupriferous pyrite deposits. These are thought to be related to submarine volcanism during the early evolutionary stages of a narrow Damaran ocean, the Matchless Trough. The mineralized bodies examined (Ongeama, Ongombo and Matchless West Extension) are deformed and metamorphosed to low-medium grade (greenschist-amphibolite facies). They are associated with metapelite and amphibolite country rocks, and crop out as prominent limonite-rich gossans. The elongated shape of the sulphide bodies suggests a structural control. The mineralization normally consists of a variably developed massive sulphide portion, either quartz-, talc- or amphibole-bearing, and a stratigraphically overlying, extensive horizon of sulphide- and baryte-bearing exhalite (magnetite quartzite and less common talc- and actinolite-bearing schists). Lateral and vertical mineralogical changes within the mineralization match with significant variations in the element distribution. A metamorphosed and deformed alteration pipe, indicating the position of the fluid conduit, can be recognized in association with some ore bodies. The formation of quartz-muscovite and chlorite alteration envelopes (Ongeama, Matchless West Extension) and the presence of subtle mineralogical changes (Ongombo) in the immediate wallrocks, accompanied by extensive redistribution, leaching and introduction of elements from outside, suggest the hydrothermal metasomatic origin of the alteration zones. Element zoning within the mineralized bodies can be related to the original position of the vent, possibly coinciding with the intersection of the axis of the alteration pipe with the sulphide body. Cu, Zn, Au (pro parte) and Mo are enriched proximal to the vent, whereas Pb, Ba, Mn, Ag, Au, Sn, Bi and W enrichment characterizes the distal facies of the mineralization. In spite of the obliterating and disrupting effects of the regional dynamo-metamorphism, the element distribution within the mineralization and alteration zones examined is comparable with the geochemical trends observed in present-day mineralizing systems in early- stage oceanic environments (e.g. Guaymas Basin). During exploration for blind volcanogenic mineralization, the detection of hydrothermally altered rocks is fundamental in indicating the proximity to the mineralization. The localization of the alteration zone is also important in the interpretation of the regional geology of the explored area: in deformed terrains the assessment of the stratigraphic position of the alteration zone, relative to the mineralization, helps in establishing the polarity of the sequence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1991
- Authors: Moroni, Marilena
- Date: 1991
- Subjects: Geology -- Namibia , Petrology -- Namibia , Geochemistry -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5045 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007693 , Geology -- Namibia , Petrology -- Namibia , Geochemistry -- Namibia
- Description: The Matchless Amphibolite Belt (Damara Orogen, Namibia) hosts several volcanogenic-exhalative, sediment-hosted stratiform cupriferous pyrite deposits. These are thought to be related to submarine volcanism during the early evolutionary stages of a narrow Damaran ocean, the Matchless Trough. The mineralized bodies examined (Ongeama, Ongombo and Matchless West Extension) are deformed and metamorphosed to low-medium grade (greenschist-amphibolite facies). They are associated with metapelite and amphibolite country rocks, and crop out as prominent limonite-rich gossans. The elongated shape of the sulphide bodies suggests a structural control. The mineralization normally consists of a variably developed massive sulphide portion, either quartz-, talc- or amphibole-bearing, and a stratigraphically overlying, extensive horizon of sulphide- and baryte-bearing exhalite (magnetite quartzite and less common talc- and actinolite-bearing schists). Lateral and vertical mineralogical changes within the mineralization match with significant variations in the element distribution. A metamorphosed and deformed alteration pipe, indicating the position of the fluid conduit, can be recognized in association with some ore bodies. The formation of quartz-muscovite and chlorite alteration envelopes (Ongeama, Matchless West Extension) and the presence of subtle mineralogical changes (Ongombo) in the immediate wallrocks, accompanied by extensive redistribution, leaching and introduction of elements from outside, suggest the hydrothermal metasomatic origin of the alteration zones. Element zoning within the mineralized bodies can be related to the original position of the vent, possibly coinciding with the intersection of the axis of the alteration pipe with the sulphide body. Cu, Zn, Au (pro parte) and Mo are enriched proximal to the vent, whereas Pb, Ba, Mn, Ag, Au, Sn, Bi and W enrichment characterizes the distal facies of the mineralization. In spite of the obliterating and disrupting effects of the regional dynamo-metamorphism, the element distribution within the mineralization and alteration zones examined is comparable with the geochemical trends observed in present-day mineralizing systems in early- stage oceanic environments (e.g. Guaymas Basin). During exploration for blind volcanogenic mineralization, the detection of hydrothermally altered rocks is fundamental in indicating the proximity to the mineralization. The localization of the alteration zone is also important in the interpretation of the regional geology of the explored area: in deformed terrains the assessment of the stratigraphic position of the alteration zone, relative to the mineralization, helps in establishing the polarity of the sequence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1991
A preliminary appraisal of the mineral potential of Venda based on a reconnaissance geochemical soil sampling survey and literature review
- Wilson, Michael George Carey
- Authors: Wilson, Michael George Carey
- Date: 1990
- Subjects: Mines and mineral resources -- South Africa -- Venda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4994 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005606 , Mines and mineral resources -- South Africa -- Venda
- Description: A reconnaissance soil sampling survey was carried out over Venda by Cycad (Pty) Ltd and the samples were analysed for 36 elements using XRF techniques, by Anglo American Research Laboratories in Johanuesburg. The data resulting from this survey forms the basis for the present interpretive study. Initially the sample positions were co-ordinated, then the geological, soil and sample types were allocated to each point. Twelve lithological groupings were chosen which incorporated most of the available data, retained significant geological characteristics and consisted of statistically significant sample populations. Statistical manipulation was undertaken for each of the lithological groups. Using a final population of 5768 samples, means were determined and anomalous values were identified using a threshold of mean plus two standard deviations. Due to time and budgetary constraints, 24 of the 36 elements were chosen for statisical manipulation and fourteen of these, with particular economic significance, were chosen for plotting, wherever significant numbers of anomalies were present. The element overlays were plotted so as to coincide with 18 of the 25, 1:50 000 topographic sheets covering Venda , the remaining 7 having inadequate sample coverage to yield meaningful contours. In this way a total of 175 element overlay sheets were plotted, each showing contoured element levels, with selected anomalous values. The treatment of the vast body of information made available by the Cycad sampling programme has thus been selective and has continually been aimed at highlighting and concentrating attention on the areas of greatest indicated mineralization potential, rather than on specific anomalies. In this regard it is felt that the present study has been successful, in spite of limited sample coverage in some areas. Combining the results of this study with a modern tectonically-based appraisal of mineralization potential and a knowledge of the local geology and previously known mineralization gleaned from an extensive literature review, the following types of mineralization are considered to have the highest potential in Venda: i) Nickel-copper-platinum mineralization as well as magnesite, in the olivine dolerite sills which intrude the base of the Karoo Sequence in Northern Venda. ii) Coal in the basal Karoo Sequence sediments in a broad zone from Jazz 715 MS in the west, and along the Klein Tshipise fault from Amonda 159 MT to the Mutale Copper Fields then east of these to the Kruger National Park. Where intrusives invade these lower Karoo sed iments the potential exists for amorphous graphite. iii) Hydrothermal copper and possibly gold and silver concentrations, in Nzhelele and Sibasa Formation rocks, particularly those associated with faults known to have been active in post-Soutpansberg times. iv) Sediment-hosted massive sulphide deposits (Cu-Pb -Zn) close to basin margin faults, near intersections with cross cutting faults that have resulted in localized basin formation. These are most likely in the Soutpansberg sediments. v) Martle, flake-graphite and late stage skarn mineralization (including lead, zinc, gold and tungsten), in calcareous rocks of the Gumbu Formation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1990
- Authors: Wilson, Michael George Carey
- Date: 1990
- Subjects: Mines and mineral resources -- South Africa -- Venda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4994 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005606 , Mines and mineral resources -- South Africa -- Venda
- Description: A reconnaissance soil sampling survey was carried out over Venda by Cycad (Pty) Ltd and the samples were analysed for 36 elements using XRF techniques, by Anglo American Research Laboratories in Johanuesburg. The data resulting from this survey forms the basis for the present interpretive study. Initially the sample positions were co-ordinated, then the geological, soil and sample types were allocated to each point. Twelve lithological groupings were chosen which incorporated most of the available data, retained significant geological characteristics and consisted of statistically significant sample populations. Statistical manipulation was undertaken for each of the lithological groups. Using a final population of 5768 samples, means were determined and anomalous values were identified using a threshold of mean plus two standard deviations. Due to time and budgetary constraints, 24 of the 36 elements were chosen for statisical manipulation and fourteen of these, with particular economic significance, were chosen for plotting, wherever significant numbers of anomalies were present. The element overlays were plotted so as to coincide with 18 of the 25, 1:50 000 topographic sheets covering Venda , the remaining 7 having inadequate sample coverage to yield meaningful contours. In this way a total of 175 element overlay sheets were plotted, each showing contoured element levels, with selected anomalous values. The treatment of the vast body of information made available by the Cycad sampling programme has thus been selective and has continually been aimed at highlighting and concentrating attention on the areas of greatest indicated mineralization potential, rather than on specific anomalies. In this regard it is felt that the present study has been successful, in spite of limited sample coverage in some areas. Combining the results of this study with a modern tectonically-based appraisal of mineralization potential and a knowledge of the local geology and previously known mineralization gleaned from an extensive literature review, the following types of mineralization are considered to have the highest potential in Venda: i) Nickel-copper-platinum mineralization as well as magnesite, in the olivine dolerite sills which intrude the base of the Karoo Sequence in Northern Venda. ii) Coal in the basal Karoo Sequence sediments in a broad zone from Jazz 715 MS in the west, and along the Klein Tshipise fault from Amonda 159 MT to the Mutale Copper Fields then east of these to the Kruger National Park. Where intrusives invade these lower Karoo sed iments the potential exists for amorphous graphite. iii) Hydrothermal copper and possibly gold and silver concentrations, in Nzhelele and Sibasa Formation rocks, particularly those associated with faults known to have been active in post-Soutpansberg times. iv) Sediment-hosted massive sulphide deposits (Cu-Pb -Zn) close to basin margin faults, near intersections with cross cutting faults that have resulted in localized basin formation. These are most likely in the Soutpansberg sediments. v) Martle, flake-graphite and late stage skarn mineralization (including lead, zinc, gold and tungsten), in calcareous rocks of the Gumbu Formation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1990
The geology and alteration/mineralization of the Van Rooi's vley W/Sn deposit, Namaqua metamorphic complex, South Africa
- Authors: Smithies, Robert Hugh
- Date: 1987 , 2013-03-01
- Subjects: Mineralogy -- South Africa , Geology -- South Africa -- Namaqualand
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4924 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004526 , Mineralogy -- South Africa , Geology -- South Africa -- Namaqualand
- Description: Scheelite, wolfram Ite and cassIterIte mIneralizat ion is hosted wIthin numerous quartz-tourmaline-feldspar-fluorite veins at Van Rooi's Vley, N.W. Cape Province . MineralizatIon and hydrothermal alteration within, and around, these veins is hIghly complex and reflects the intricate interaction of hydrotherma l activity upon a structurally deformed sequence of ProterozoIc med ium to high-grade gneisses. Four distinct stages of alteration and mineralization occurred, including a l ate 'epithermal stage'. Although the location of mineralization was strongly controlled by st ructure, the concentration of mineralizati on was controlled by physicochemical variables, of which host-rock geochemistry was particularly important . Further W/Sn mineralization occurs on a local scale, some of which is spatia lly related to minor leucogranite dykes. Leucogranite bodies are not uncommon within the region and some are enriched in Wand Sn. By comparing FIB ra tio s,W/Sn ratios, the alteration mineralogy, the ore mineralogy and the Fe-content of tourmaline, the deposits within the Van Rooi's Vley area can be placed into a 'proximal' to 'distal' classification, with respect to a common source of mineralizing hydrothermal fluids. The Van Rooi's Vley deposit, whilst affiliated to greisen-style deposits, represents a ' distal' quartz-vein lode deposit. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.53 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1987
- Authors: Smithies, Robert Hugh
- Date: 1987 , 2013-03-01
- Subjects: Mineralogy -- South Africa , Geology -- South Africa -- Namaqualand
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4924 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004526 , Mineralogy -- South Africa , Geology -- South Africa -- Namaqualand
- Description: Scheelite, wolfram Ite and cassIterIte mIneralizat ion is hosted wIthin numerous quartz-tourmaline-feldspar-fluorite veins at Van Rooi's Vley, N.W. Cape Province . MineralizatIon and hydrothermal alteration within, and around, these veins is hIghly complex and reflects the intricate interaction of hydrotherma l activity upon a structurally deformed sequence of ProterozoIc med ium to high-grade gneisses. Four distinct stages of alteration and mineralization occurred, including a l ate 'epithermal stage'. Although the location of mineralization was strongly controlled by st ructure, the concentration of mineralizati on was controlled by physicochemical variables, of which host-rock geochemistry was particularly important . Further W/Sn mineralization occurs on a local scale, some of which is spatia lly related to minor leucogranite dykes. Leucogranite bodies are not uncommon within the region and some are enriched in Wand Sn. By comparing FIB ra tio s,W/Sn ratios, the alteration mineralogy, the ore mineralogy and the Fe-content of tourmaline, the deposits within the Van Rooi's Vley area can be placed into a 'proximal' to 'distal' classification, with respect to a common source of mineralizing hydrothermal fluids. The Van Rooi's Vley deposit, whilst affiliated to greisen-style deposits, represents a ' distal' quartz-vein lode deposit. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.53 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1987
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