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Abstract

Whole rock lithogeochemical data from the andesite rocks which host low-sulfidation epithermal gold veins in the Waihi district, New Zealand have been used to interpret hydrothermal alteration processes that variably altered the andesite rocks. The andesite host rocks are interpreted to have similar primary chemical compositions throughout the Waihi area, as reflected in similar ratios of immobile elements (eg Zr, Ti and other high field strength elements). The geochemical data reveal that elevated K/Al ratios occur in rocks proximal to low-Au–Ag deposits, reflecting adularia alteration in the host rocks associated with the upflowing hydrothermal fluids. Silicification of host rocks is achieved both by the addition of SiO2, as well as the destruction of plagioclase (reflected in the loss of CaO and Na2O). The rocks have been variably altered, with calcite and pyrite abundance reflecting the addition of carbon and sulphur. Pathfinder element (eg As, Sb) concentrations are variable across the district, with high pathfinder element concentrations interpreted to reflect proximity to hydrothermal fluid flow. Together, the results provide a district-scale overview of hydrothermal alteration at Waihi, and emphasise the utility of lithogeochemistry for classifying and quantifying hydrothermal alteration that can then be used to interpret hydrothermal processes and assist mineral exploration.

Item Type:	Article
Authors/Creators:	Barker, SLL and Hood, SB and Hughes, RM and Richards, S
Keywords:	exploration geochemistry, lithogeochemistry, epithermal, alteration, mineralogy, pathfinder elements, Waihi, New Zealand
Journal or Publication Title:	New Zealand Journal of Geology and Geophysics
Publisher:	Sir Publishing
ISSN:	0028-8306
DOI / ID Number:	https://doi.org/10.1080/00288306.2019.1651345
Copyright Information:	© 2019 The Royal Society of New Zealand. This is an original manuscript / preprint of an article published by Taylor & Francis in New Zealand journal of geology and geophysics on 29 August 2019, available online: http://www.tandfonline.com/10.1080/00288306.2019.1651345
Related URLs:	UTAS Profile: Hood, S
Item Statistics:	View statistics for this item

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