Introduction to Ore-Forming Processes is the first senior undergraduate – postgraduate textbook to focus specifically on the multiplicity of geological processes that result in the formation of mineral deposits. Opens with an overview of magmatic ore-forming processes Moves systematically through hydrothermal and sedimentary metallogenic environments, covering as it does the entire gamut of mineral deposit types, including the fossil fuels and supergene ores The final chapter relates metallogeny to global tectonics by examining the distribution of mineral deposits in space and time Boxed examples of world famous ore deposits are featured throughout providing context and relevance to the process-oriented descriptions of ore genesis Brings the discipline of economic geology back into the realm of conventional mainstream earth science by emphasizing the fact that mineral deposits are simply one of the many natural wonders of geological process and evolution. Artwork from the book is available to instructors at www.blackwellpublishing.com/robb.

The latest knowledge on mineral ore genesis and the exploration of ore deposits Global demand for metals has risen considerably over the past decade. Geologists are developing new approaches for studying ore deposits and discovering new sources. Ore Deposits: Origin, Exploration, and Exploitation is a compilation of diverse case studies on new prospects in ore deposit geology including atypical examples of mineral deposits and new methods for ore exploration. Volume highlights include: Presentation of the latest research on a range of ore deposit types Application of ore deposits to multiple areas of geology and geophysical exploration Emphasis on diverse methods and tools for the study of ore deposits Useful case studies for geologists in both academia and industry Ore Deposits: Origin, Exploration, and Exploitation is a valuable resource for economic geologists, mineralogists, petrologists, geochemists, mining engineers, research professionals, and advanced students in relevant areas of academic study. Read an interview with the editors to find out more: https://eos.org/editors-vox/developments-in-the-continuing-search-for-new-mineral-deposits

Sedimentology and Ore Genesis

From the first attempts to understand the origin of giant iron ore deposits, numerous false assumptions have been used as the basis of genesis models that have become standard and unquestioned, with later research generally seeking to find evidence supporting the existing models and ignoring contrary evidence. Many models were constructed based on extremely rare features, and their absence in the global abundance of iron formations was not considered important since there was no understanding of the major sedimentary structures, i.e. laminations and banding. Inconsistencies within the hypothetical models are either ignored or excused by proposing special circumstances, but no one considers that the models might be wrong or have only limited application. Many hypotheses regarding Earths history have been postulated from the difference between Phanerozoic and Precambrian iron-formations. In particular, the development of an oxygenated atmosphere has been deduced from the supposed evolution of iron-formations. The subject has provided a fertile field for research and models of Earths history, but without clear knowledge of the sedimentation, diagenesis and metamorphism of BIFs (branded iron formations), such models are speculative or even irrelevant. Since these models on the genesis and distribution of BIF were used as proxies to answer questions regarding the composition of the early oceans and atmosphere, weathering and transport conditions on early land surface, volcanism and continental development in the Archean eon, and as they affect exploration for the largest volume and most basic of industrial metals, they have an importance beyond academic sedimentary and stratigraphic interest. The aim of this book is to present a model for the origin of BIFs and derived high-grade iron ore deposits with global applications that are still subject to correction and change as new information becomes available and are free of illogical assumptions which do not conflict with either field observations or basic chemistry and physics.

Mapping closely to how ore deposit geology is now taught, this textbook systematically describes and illustrates the major ore deposit types, linking this to their settings in the crust and the geological factors behind their formation. Written for advanced undergraduate and graduate students with a basic background in the geosciences, it provides a balance of practical information and coverage of the relevant geological sciences, including petrological, geochemical, hydrological and tectonic processes. Important theory is summarized without unnecessary detail and integrated with students' learning in other topics, including magmatic processes and sedimentary geology, enabling students to make links across the geosciences. Students are supported by further reading, a comprehensive glossary, and problems and review questions that test the application of theoretical approaches and encourage students to use what they have learnt. A website includes visual resources and combines with the book to provide students and instructors with a complete learning package.

This monograph reflects the results of a fundamental investigation of metasomatic skarn and ore formation in dolomites, which the author has been conducting for decades. The genetic complication and practical significance of skarn deposits of ores and other minerals found on all continents necessitated comprehensive studying of the processes of their formation, the petrochemical and mineral composition of metasomatic rocks and ores, and their postmagmatic and exogentic alteration. The investigation was based on the latest methods for establishing chemical composition, simulation of hydrothermal ore formation, and on information on the isotope composition of carbon, oxygen, boron and sulfur in ores and minerals. The development in geochemical methods of prognosis, prospecting for, and appraising the quality of skarn ores of various composition proved their merits in the finding of new deposits and promising bodies of new mineral kinds of ores in Russia and other countries.

The basis of this investigation is the petrographic and geochemical understanding of principal igneous rock types of the Noril’sk region, in order to demonstrate that these data provide unique and self-evident solutions to the problems of petrogenesis and mineralization. The results of the investigations are presented in two volumes: the first includes mainly text and the second contains illustrations. In the first volume, the state of the main problems of the genesis of igneous rocks with reference to Traps and related ore deposits is discussed, as well as short petrological descriptions of igneous complexes in the region, the mineral and geochemical diversity of the rocks, and aspects of the differentiation of basaltic melts and mineralization are described. Taking into account the vast number of publications on the petrology of Traps of the Noril’sk region, primary attention in the monograph is given to earlier unknown phenomena, as well as other aspects that are of great importance for solving genetic problems. Some exotic geologic targets such as the Mikchandinsky differentiated cover, the magnetite lava flow of the Putorana Plateau, the magmatogenic breccia of Kharaelakh and others are described in detail. The second volume contains an atlas of Rock Indications of igneous rock-types; formally identified reference rocks from all igneous complexes of the region, as well as photographs of thin sections of typical rocks and analytical tables of rocks and minerals from the key sections of sedimentary units and intrusions. Each rock type has been geochemically and petrographically analysed thereby providing a formal identity, complete with a photograph of the thin section. Photomicrographs of the rocks in this book will be a useful aid in visualizing the diversity of rock types in the Traps; each photograph reflecting a unique combination of minerals.