The role of regional lithogeochemistry in mineral exploration

Abstract

Regional lithogeochemical surveys can be used to determine the geochemical characteristics of particular tectonic regions as well as mapping geochemistry in relation to geology and ore deposits at a larger scale. Regional lithogeochemistry is of particular value for assigning signatures to associations of igneous rocks which are related geochemically and geologically.

The application of regional lithogeochemistry to mineral exploration is reviewed here with particular reference to the Mesozoic magmatic province of Mongolia. Geochemical data for granitoids are shown to have particular application to: (1) the classification and grouping of rocks of similar petrochemical and mineral compositions; (2) the compilation of tectonic and metallogenic maps; (3) the identification of metallogenic provinces and ore zones; and (4) predictive modelling to identify ore-bearing associations. Moreover, such data can be used to estimate the probable types and sizes of ore bodies associated with particular geochemical rock types. Regional lithogeochemistry thus forms an essential basis for prospecting for mineral deposits.