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Fluid pathways, geochemical zonation, and exploration of Carlin-type gold deposits, Youjiang Basin, China: insights from the Lannigou 3D geochemical system
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DOI：10.1007/s00126-026-01467-y.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
The Youjiang Basin in southwestern China is the world’s second-largest province of Carlin-type gold deposits, yet its exploration potential remains underexplored compared to its counterpart in Nevada, USA. A primary challenge has been the lack of robust, data-driven metallogenic models to guide the search for deeper, concealed orebodies. This study addresses this critical knowledge gap by conducting a comprehensive geochemical investigation of the Lannigou deposit, the largest fault-controlled Carlin-type gold deposit in the basin. In this work, we integrated large, spatially matched geochemical datasets from deep drill-core rock (n = 449) and surface soil (n = 2,280) samples. Through comprehensive statistical analyses, mass transfer calculations, and innovative three-dimensional spatial visualization, we successfully (1) identified distinct ore-related (Au-As-Hg-Sb-Ag-Tl-W-Mo) and diagenetic (Bi, Co, Cu, Ni, Zn, Pb) elemental suites, delineating their controlling geological mechanisms; (2) established a robust vertical geochemical zonation pattern (Mo → Tl → Sb → W → As → Au → Ag → Hg), which serves as a powerful vector for assessing the erosional level of mineralizing systems; and (3) revealed the critical role of a deep-seated, bedding-parallel detachment fault (F1) as a master conduit, channeling ore-forming fluids from basement structures into shallower, ore-hosting reverse faults. Based on these findings, we propose a new metallogenic model wherein ore-forming fluids ascended from depth, migrated laterally along this major detachment fault, and subsequently precipitated gold within structurally favorable traps, such as secondary reverse faults on anticlinal limbs. Our metallogenic model and the identified geochemical vectors offer robust and actionable criteria for targeting concealed Carlin-type orebodies in the Youjiang Basin and analogous terranes worldwide.
Keywords:
Carlin-type gold deposits
Youjiang Basin
Geochemical zonation
Structural control
Fluid pathways
Exploration targeting
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