Paragenesis and Zoning

Paragenesis - sequence of deposition of ore and gangue minerals. Determined from both
microscopic and megascopic studies.

Zoning - distribution of ore minerals in space laterally and vertically.

Paragenesis

In general, all deposits show a similar pattern, some anomalies are present, but these are
generally rare. General sequence as follows:

1. magnetite, ilmemite, hematite

2. silicates
3. cassiterite, wolframite, molybdenite
4. pyrrhotite, lollingite, arsenopyrite, pyrite, cobalt and nickel arsenides
5. chalcopyrite, bornite, sphalerite
6. galena, tetrahedrite, lead sulfosalts, tellurides, cinnabar

Of course, not all minerals are present in any one deposit and the above sequence is
highly simplified. See Figure for an example of a more detailed paragenetic sequence.

Zoning

Can be defined by changes in ore or gangue minerals or both, by changes in the

percentages of metals, or by changes in metal/metal ratios or even isotopic variation.
1. epigenetic hydrothermal zoning
o regional - large scale zoning which often shows a rough correspondence to
orogenic belts or plate boundaries.

o district - zoning on a district scale often related to intrusive centers of

facies changes in sedimentary rocks.
 o ore body - changes within a single ore body.
2. syngenetic hydrothermal zoning - zoning relative to a central volcanic source.
Very similar between deposits and well documented. Sequence is Fe--> (Sn)-->
Cu--> Zn--> Pb-->Ag-->Ba. An overlap of zones is common.
3. sedimentary syngenetic zoning - found in sedimentary sulfide ore deposits.
Sequence is Cu+Ag--> Pb-->Zn.