Welcome to visit Geoscience!

Table of Content

    10 February 2025, Volume 39 Issue 01
    Tectonics and Structural Geology
    Shear-wave Velocity and Azimuthal Anisotropy in the Upper Mantle of the Tonga Subduction Zone
    ZHAO Di, LIU Xin, ZHAO Dapeng
    2025, 39(01):  1-7.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2024.101
    Asbtract ( 122 )   HTML ( 20)   PDF (9565KB) ( 80 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    The Tonga Subduction Zone, located in the southwestern Pacific, is characterized by the global most typical trench-arc-basin system. It not only has the fastest plate convergence rate globally but also features the fastest back-arc basin, the Lau Basin. The Samoan mantle plume, situated on the northeastern side of the Tonga Subduction Zone, interacts strongly with the subducting system, making the mantle dynamics in this region even more complex. Many previous geophysical investigations of the region have been conducted, but the fine three-dimensional structure of the upper mantle, especially its anisotropic structure, is still not very clear. Here we apply azimuthal anisotropy tomography using amplitude and phase data of teleseismic fundamental-mode Rayleigh waves at periods of 20-150 s to further constrain the upper mantle structure beneath Tonga. Our results show the following features: (1) The southward inflow of the Samoan mantle plume material into the Lau Basin mainly occurs at depths less than 50 km. (2) There is a west-east mantle flow beneath the northern part of the Lau Basin, while a south-north mantle flow exists beneath the southern part, possibly resulting from passive mantle flow to accommodate asymmetric rollback of the subducting slab. (3) Within the subducting slab, the fast-velocity direction is nearly north-south, possibly caused by the presence of subduction-related normal faults. (4) In the asthenosphere beneath the outer-rise region, there is a lateral mantle flow parallel to the trench, probably formed because the asthenospheric material being extruded by the rollback of the subducting slab.

    Tectonic Characteristics and Evolution of the Qiyueshan Fault in the Xuefengshan Foreland Fold-and-Thrust Belt: Insights from Discrete Element Numerical Simulations
    WANG Shuaijie, YAN Danping, ZHOU Zhicheng, KONG Fei, JING Hanyang, LIAO Wei
    2025, 39(01):  18-30.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2024.126
    Asbtract ( 97 )   HTML ( 15)   PDF (10603KB) ( 75 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    The NE-trending Qiyueshan Fault divides the Xuefengshan foreland fold-and-thrust belt into the northwestern Eastern Sichuan fold-and-thrust belt and the southeastern Western Hunan fold-and-thrust belt. However, the nature and formation process of the Qiyueshan Fault remain debated, resulting in significant discrepancies in understanding the formation and evolution mechanisms of the Xuefengshan foreland fold-and-thrust belt. To investigate the formation of the Qiyueshan Fault and its control on differential deformation on both sides, seismic reflection profiles were interpreted, and five discrete element numerical simulation models were designed for experimental analysis. The results reveal that pre-existing faults localize deformation and influence the sequence of fault generation. In contrast, without pre-existing faults, deformation predominantly propagates along the lower detachment layer under weak cohesion. When the thickness of the middle detachment layer exceeds that of the lower detachment layer, deformation is governed by the middle detachment layer, leading to partial decoupling of the competent layers above and below it. Based on a comparison with seismic reflection profiles, the Xuefengshan foreland fold-and-thrust belt is characterized as a “double-step fault-bend fold system.” The Qiyueshan Fault formed during progressive deformation of the foreland belt, and the structural differences across the fault are primarily controlled by the distribution of the basal detachment layer and the mechanical properties of the Cambrian detachment layer. The Western Hunan fold-and-thrust belt is governed by deep-seated fault-bend folding, while the Eastern Sichuan fold-and-thrust belt is controlled by shallow fault-bend folding.

    Igneous Petrology
    Characteristics of Silicon-rich Melt Inclusions in the Cenozoic Basalts from Hainan Island and Their Genesis
    XU Xin, ZHANG Lifei, TIAN Wei, ZHU Jintao, HE Yanxin
    2025, 39(01):  31-45.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2024.024
    Asbtract ( 87 )   HTML ( 6)   PDF (7080KB) ( 61 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    Melt inclusions record important information such as the evolution of pre-eruption, degassing process, and volatile budget in magma. Melt inclusions are powerful tools for studying basaltic magma systems and mantle source, and are widely used to study the origin and evolution of magma derived mantle. There are a large number of melt and fluid inclusions in the olivine phenocryst of the Cenozoic basalts in the Penglai area of Hainan Island. Using an electron microprobe to analyze the composition of melt inclusions and their host minerals. The host mineral olivines have Fo values ranging from 70 to 85, with CaO values exceeding 0.1%, which is typical phenocrysts rather than mantle xenocrysts. At room temperature conditions, the melt inclusions are composed of melt (glass), bubbles and sub-minerals (pyroxene, plagioclase and Ilmenite). The glass compositions in melt inclusions are dacite and trachyte. Olivines containing melt inclusions were heated in a high-temperature furnace. After homogenization melt inclusions, no sub-minerals were observed in the melt. The glass compositions of the melt inclusions are basalt and basaltic andesite, and a few are andesite. The compositions of homogenization melt inclusions are similar to those of the bulk Cenozoic basalts in the Penglai area, Hainan Island. This study suggests that the presence of Si-rich melt inclusions in the phenocrysts of the Cenozoic basaltic rocks in the Penglai area of Hainan Island are due to the slow cooling rate after the melt inclusions are trapped. The slow cooling rate in melt made fraction crystallization in the melt inclusions, leading to the continuous evolution of the residual liquids towards Si-rich direction. Therefore, before conducting research on melt inclusions, it is necessary to carefully observe the internal structural characteristics of the melt inclusions, and if necessary, conduct heating experiments.

    Petrogenesis and Paleoenvironmental Significance of Paleogene Peperite in the Tuoyun Basin, Southwestern Tianshan Mountains
    LIU Fan, CHENG Zhiguo, GUO Zhufang, JI Wentao
    2025, 39(01):  46-61.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2024.103
    Asbtract ( 65 )   HTML ( 3)   PDF (12445KB) ( 52 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    Peperite is a distinctive pyroclastic rock formed by the interaction between hot lava flows and cold, moist surface sediments. Composed of juvenile clasts and host sediments, its unique origin and occurrence provide critical insights into paleoenvironmental conditions during volcanic eruptions. The Tuoyun Basin, located in the southwestern Tianshan Mountains, preserves geological evidence of the regression of the Tarim Bay since the Mesozoic. The recent discovery of Paleogene peperite in the Tuoyun Basin has been interpreted as a key marker of the transition from marine to terrestrial depositional environments. This study investigates the major and trace element compositions, along with the carbon and oxygen isotopic characteristics, of host carbonates associated with the Tuoyun peperite. The results show that the δ13CVPDB values of the host carbonates range from-4.05‰ to-7.74‰, while the δ18OVPDB values range from -6.42‰ to-11.93‰. Based on empirical calculations, the estimated paleotemperature of peperite formation spans from 30.3 ℃ to 6.9 ℃, with a paleosalinity index ranging between 114.6 and 105.5 (average of 110.2), corresponding to a paleosalinity of 24.77‰.These findings suggest that the Tuoyun peperite formed in a slightly brackish lagoonal environment located at the marine-terrestrial interface during the Paleogene.

    Geochronology and Geochemical Characteristics of Late Carboniferous Granites in the Huma Area, Northern Greater Khingan Mountains: Insights into the Tectonic Evolution of the Paleo-Asian Ocean
    ZHANG Guobin, KONG Jingui, WANG Cuipeng, SHI Hongjiang, JU Nan, HE Yunlong
    2025, 39(01):  62-82.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2023.087
    Asbtract ( 60 )   HTML ( 4)   PDF (8003KB) ( 82 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    The Greater Khingan Mountain, located in the eastern part of the Central Asian orogenic belt, is composed of Erguna block, Xing’an block, Songnen block, and their suture zones. However, the timing, locations, and evolutionary processes of the amalgamation of these blocks have been key scientific issues of controversy within the geological community. In this paper, the Late Carboniferous medium fine grained monzonitic and medium fine grained granodiorite in the Huma area, northern Greater Hinggan Mountains are studied, conduct LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb geochronology and whole-rock elemental composition studies, investigate rock genesis and magma source regions, analyze the tectonic setting of petrogenesis, and attempt to constrain the timing of the closure of the ancient Paleo-Asian Ocean. The research results shows that the age of the medium fine grained monzonitic and medium fine grained granodiorite are (310.3±2.6)Ma and (313.4±2.5)Ma, respectively. Both types of rock formations share characteristics of high silicon, high aluminum, high alkali, low calcium, low magnesium, and weakly peraluminous. They belong to high potassium calc alkaline series rocks, rich in Rb, K, Th, U and other elements, and depleted in Nb, Ta, P, Ti. The content of P2O5 and Al2O3 decreases with the increase of SiO2, and the content of Th and Y increases with the increase of Rb, showing the characteristics of I-type granite. In conjunction with the regional magmatic zircon Hf isotope composition features, it indicates that the magma originated from the partial melting of basic rocks of amphibolite facies in the late Neoproterozoic-Phanerozoic neoaccretionary crust, and experienced a certain degree of fractional crystallization. Integrating geochronology, geochemistry characteristics and regional tectonic evolution, it is suggested that the Late Carboniferous granites in the northern Greater Khingan Mountains were formed in the post-collision environment after the collision of the Xing’an block and the Songnen block.

    Late Neoarchean Crustal Evolution of Jishan Area in the Southern Margin of North China Craton: Insights from Geochronology and Geochemistry of Yezhai Granite
    GUO Xiaowei, YANG Yanwei, ZHANG Yu
    2025, 39(01):  83-95.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2024.045
    Asbtract ( 73 )   HTML ( 7)   PDF (6504KB) ( 59 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    The Songji area, located on the southern margin of the North China Craton, is characterized by the extensive presence of Neoarchean TTG gneiss and granite, making it a vital window for studying the early Precambrian geological evolution of the North China Craton. This study focuses on the newly identified Yezhai granite body within the Dengfeng Complex, employing geochronological and geochemical analyses to ascertain its formation age, genesis and tectonic evolution. The zircon U-Pb age of the Yezhai granite is determined to be (2,506±19) Ma, indicating its formation during the late Neoarchean period. Geochemical investigations reveal that the rock mass exhibits relatively high silica content (SiO2=66.88%-74.14%) and is enriched in alkali elements (Na2O=3.15%-4.09%;K2O=2.06%-5.36%), demonstrating peraluminous calc-alkaline to high-potassium calc-alkaline characteristics (A/CNK=1.03-1.27). The rare earth elemental distribution pattern shows a right-leaning tendency, characterized by the enrichment of light rare earth elements (LREE) and depletion of heavy rare earth elements (HREE), along with a weak or inconspicuous positive europium anomaly (δEu=0.76-1.26). Trace element analysis indicates the enrichment of large ion lithophile elements (Rb, U, Th, K)and relative depletion of high field strength elements (Nb, Ti, P). The trace elements diagrams highlight features of high strontium (Sr) and low Yb and Y, with Sr/Y ratios ranging from 22.76 to 123.81, resembling the geochemical characteristics of adakite. The relationship among Nb, Y, Rb and Yb suggest similarities with island arc volcanic rocks. Overall, the findings indicate that the Yezhai granite body in Jishan area likely formed in an island arc setting, potentially resulting from the partial melting of an older, thickened lower crust in the Songji region.

    Mineral Deposit
    Types and Genesis of Magnetite in the Sijiaying Banded Iron Formation-hosted Iron Deposit, Eastern Hebei Province: Insights into Mechanisms of High-Grade Iron Mineralization
    ZHANG Meinuo, SHI Kangxing, QIU Kunfeng, DENG Jun
    2025, 39(01):  96-114.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2025.003
    Asbtract ( 58 )   HTML ( 8)   PDF (17681KB) ( 40 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    The Sijiaying banded iron formation (BIF)-hosted deposit, located in eastern Hebei Province, is a significant occurrence of iron ore within a suite of Neoarchean low-grade metamorphic rocks of amphibolite-greenschist facies. The metallogeny of the high-grade Fe mineralization at Sijiaying remains a subject of debate. This study presents a comprehensive investigation of the petrology, mineralogy, and geochemistry of ores from the Sijiaying BIF-hosted iron deposit to elucidate their genesis. The deposit predominantly comprises massive high-grade Fe ore and banded low-grade BIF. The ores are characterized by three distinct types of magnetite: First, magnetite from the original sedimentary-metamorphic stage (Mt1), which exhibits a banded distribution and occurs as irregular or rounded granular forms, characterized by the smallest particle size found within the low-grade BIF. Second, magnetite from the hydrothermal alteration stage (Mt2), which manifests as irregular granular configurations and frequently coexists with pyrite, occasionally containing well-developed pyrite grains, predominantly within the low-grade BIF. Third, magnetite from the iron remobilization and re-enrichment stage (Mt3), which appears as subhedral to euhedral granules with well-formed crystal shapes, typically found in massive high-grade Fe ore. Both Mt1 and Mt2 are associated with the magnetite within the banded low-grade BIF, with Mt2 displaying clear characteristics of hydrothermal alteration. Conversely, Mt3 is indicative of magnetite originating from the massive high-grade Fe ore, resulting from remobilization and re-precipitation processes. It is concluded that the high-grade Fe mineralization of the Sijiaying deposit is primarily attributed to the remobilization and re-precipitation processes affecting the iron within the BIF.

    Characteristics and Significance of Trace Elements in Metal Sulfides from the Zhaxikang Sb-Pb-Zn-Ag Deposit, Xizang
    LIU Zi’an, WANG Da, MA Guotao, WEI Shoucai, SHI Gongwen, JIA Lanxiang, JIANG Chengkai
    2025, 39(01):  115-132.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2024.022
    Asbtract ( 65 )   HTML ( 4)   PDF (9761KB) ( 30 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    The ore genesis of the Zhaxikang Sb-Pb-Zn-Ag deposit, the first super-large deposit in the North Himalayan Metallogenic Belt, remains highly debated. Moreover, many associated elements have not been fully utilized during the mining and beneficiation processes. Based on mineralogical and petrographic studies, in-situ trace element analysis of sphalerite, galena, pyrite, boulangerite, and stibnite from the Zhaxikang deposit was conducted using electron microprobe (EPMA), elemental mapping, and Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), aiming to provide theoretical basis for the comprehensive utilization of associated elements and to resolve the controversy on ore genesis. The results show that Cd is enriched in sphalerite, galena, and boulangerite, and Ag is enriched in all five types of metal sulfides. Therefore, in the ore dressing process, attention should not only be paid to the extraction of Ag from galena, but also to the comprehensive utilization of Ag in pyrite, boulangerite, sphalerite, and stibnite, as well as Cd in sphalerite, galena, and boulangerite, to improve the overall utilization rate and reduce environmental risks. In addition, Cu and Sn are enriched in sphalerite and stibnite, while Bi is enriched in galena, pyrite, and boulangerite, but their low enrichment coefficients limit their recovery value. Other trace elements are present in low average concentrations, mostly below 10×10-6. The element composition discrimination diagrams of the sulfide minerals reveal that the Zhaxikang Sb-Pb-Zn-Ag deposit is similar to SEDEX-type deposits. The Fe-Zn contents (3.23%-12.10%, 53.63%-67.89%) of sphalerite are consistent with mesothermal hydrothermal deposits (mineralization temperature is about 200 ℃). The Ga/Ge ratio indicates a metallogenic temperature range of 185-200 ℃, and the Zn/Cd ratio (137.33-679.00) suggests that the Zhaxikang deposit is a low-intermediate temperature hydrothermal deposit. In conclusion, the Pb-Zn mineralization of the Zhaxikang Sb-Pb-Zn-Ag deposit is most likely the SEDEX type. This study provides new perspectives and data support for the debate on the ore genesis of the Zhaxikang deposit and proposes a scheme for the comprehensive utilization of ores in mining and beneficiation processes, which is significant for mineral resource development and environmental protection.

    In-situ U-Pb Geochronology and Sr Isotope Composition of the Scheelite from the Huangtian Tungsten Deposit, Southeast Yunnan, and Its Metallogenic Revelation
    WANG Zhongliang, LIN Musen, ZHOU Ruihui
    2025, 39(01):  133-145.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2024.068
    Asbtract ( 66 )   HTML ( 4)   PDF (7658KB) ( 28 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    The Huangtian tungsten deposit is a recently discovered large-scale scheelite deposit on the northern edge of the Laojunshan polymetallic mineralization area, in Southeast Yunnan province. Previous research has investigated the geological characteristics of the deposit and the evolution of mineralization fluids. However, the absence of a precise determination of its mineralization age and the contentious origin of its mineralization and materials have impeded the academic community’s comprehensive comprehension of its mineralization mechanism. To determine this problem, this article conducted in-situ U-Pb dating and in-situ Sr isotope composition on main mineralization stage I scheelite based on detailed drilling core catalogs and mineral microstructure analyses. The results show that the scheelite formed (64.6±3.7) Ma (n=35,MSWD=1.6), reflecting that the mineralization occurred in the early Paleocene. When considered in conjunction with the geological background of the mine area, it is hypothesized that the mineralization is closely related to the deep, concealed granite body in the southern part of the mine section. The 87Sr/86Sr values (0.720,25-0.728,40) of the Huangtian scheelite are significantly higher than those of the continental lithospheric mantle, indicating a crustal source. The initial Sr isotope ratios of the huangtian scheelite and the laojunshan granite are consistent, suggesting that they may have originated from a common hydrothermal system(long-lived magma chamber). The elevated concentration of Ca in Huangtian scheelite is primarily due to the sericitization of plagioclase in the granodiorite. The W element in Huangtian scheelite originates from the granodiorite by orthomagmatic model. This study defines the metallogenic era of tungsten deposits in Huangtian and traces the source of their mineralized materials. These findings lay a foundation for a deeper understanding of the metallogenic mechanisms and enrich our knowledge of the polymetallic metallogenic belt in Southeast Yunnan. Ultimately, this provides a theoretical basis for further prospecting in the region.

    Tectonic-sedimentary Lithofacies and Ore-controlling Fault Characteristics of the Limei Ore Field in Huayuan, Western Hunan Province
    XUE Changjun, LÜ Guxian, LÜ Chengxun, GAO Weili
    2025, 39(01):  146-157.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2024.134
    Asbtract ( 63 )   HTML ( 5)   PDF (9499KB) ( 32 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    Limei Pb-Zn deposit ranks among the most significant super-large lead and zinc deposits in China, holding substantial economic value and scientific relevance. By analyzing the characteristics of ore-controlling structures, stratigraphic sequences, and sedimentary structures, the study identified the Huayuan fault as a synsedimentary fault formed during the Cambrian period. The Cambrian Qingxudong Formation in the Limei ore field is classified within the carbonate system of a hinge belt setting, where the primary lithofacies are algal reef limestone facies, while the associated microfacies include platform edge beach facies and algal reef facies. The development of fracture structures in the algal limestone exhibits notable mineralization, particularly in areas with dense network structures, which frequently lead to the formation of rich lead-zinc ore bodies. Overall, the mineralization process of the deposit is strictly controlled by the structural factors, algal reef facies, and adjacent shoal facies. This research provides valuable insights for the exploration of lead-zinc mineral deposits in theregion.

    Gemstone Geology
    Chromogenic Mechanisms of Rubies with Varying Color Tones
    LIU Fukang, GUO Ying, ZHAO Bei, LIU Meiying
    2025, 39(01):  158-166.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2025.004
    Asbtract ( 50 )   HTML ( 5)   PDF (5839KB) ( 22 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    Rubies, as significant gemstone materials, have garnered extensive attention for their color characteristics. Exploring the relationship between the color of rubies and their chemical composition is essential for foundational research in gemology and for a deeper understanding of mineral formation mechanisms. This study analyzed 30 faceted rubies (including vivid red, slight purple, and slight pink hues) using UV-Visible spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, and color characteristic analysis. The findings indicate that the color of rubies is closely related to their chemical composition, primarily controlled by the Cr content, along with influences from elements such as Fe, V, and Ti. The absorption due to the d-d electron transition (4A24T2) of Cr3+is most prominent in rubies with a slight purple hue, whereas the absorption related to the d-d electron transition (4A24T1) and the fluorescence emission peak of Cr3+ is most significant in rubies with a slight pink hue. Additionally, the absorption intensities at 412 nm and 548 nm in the UV-Visible spectrum effectively indicate the intensity of the purple tone in rubies; higher absorption intensities at these wavelengths correlate with a more pronounced purple hue. The 412 nm wavelength serves as an indicator wavelength for the color parameters L and b of rubies, demonstrating a significant negative correlation with the brightness parameter L and a significant positive correlation with the b value. This finding provides a new perspective for the quantitative analysis of ruby color characteristics.

    Geochemical Characteristics and Color Formation Mechanisms of “Panlong Jade” from Jilin Province
    YANG Yuting, BAI Feng, WEN Yuhang, ZHANG Qidong, ZHANG Daoyuan, WANG Wen
    2025, 39(01):  167-182.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2025.005
    Asbtract ( 57 )   HTML ( 8)   PDF (7672KB) ( 28 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    “Panlong Jade”, a type of quartzite jade, is derived from the mineralized rocks surrounding the Xiaohongshilazi lead-zinc deposit in Panshi City, Jilin Province. Mostly yellow-green, it is primarily composed of quartz and sericite minerals. Based on field investigations, this study systematically examines the gemological, spectroscopic and geochemical characteristics of “Panlong Jade” using conventional gemological testing, X-ray powder diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, laser Raman spectroscopy, whole rock geochemical principal component analysis, electron probe, ultraviolet-visible reflection spectroscopy, whole-rock rare earth and trace element analysis and zircon U-Pb dating, while exploring the color formation mechanism, age and ore genesis of “Panlong Jade”. The results indicate that the protolith of “Panlong Jade” is mainly rhyolite tuff, and its color and particle size change due to alteration processes such as silicification and sericitization to meet jade standards. The green coloration is due to the presence of Fe2+, which is isomorphic substituted in sericite, giving it a green hue. There is a positive correlation between the sericite content and the green color of “Panlong Jade”. On the other hand, the presence of Fe3+ imparts yellow (goethite) and red (hematite) hues. “Panlong Jade” formed in a medium to low-temperature metamorphic environment. Zircon U-Pb dating results (228.1±0.7) Ma suggest that the formation of “Panlong Jade” is closely related to acidic magmatic intrusion activity during the Late Triassic period of the Mesozoic era. The mineralization process of “Panlong Jade” can be divided into three main stages: silicification, sericitization, and carbonation.

    Gem and Mineralogy, Chronology and Genesis of “Panlong Dark Jade” from Jilin Province
    AN Wenjing, BAI Feng, LIU Mengsong, ZHANG Daoyuan, HUANG Tiantian, WANG Wen
    2025, 39(01):  183-193.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2025.006
    Asbtract ( 52 )   HTML ( 4)   PDF (5942KB) ( 28 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    This study systematically explores the gemological properties, genesis, and geological context of “Panglong Dark Jade”, aiming to elucidate its formation mechanisms and address existing research deficiencies in this area. Utilizing a multifaceted approach, we employed conventional gemological testing alongside various spectroscopic methods such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), laser Raman spectroscopy, and infrared spectroscopy as well as whole-rock chemical analysis and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) for zircon U-Pb dating. Our focus was on “Panglong Dark Jade” discovered in the surrounding rocks of a medium-sized lead-zinc ore deposit in the east-central region of Jilin Province. The findings reveal that “Panglong Dark Jade” has a refractive index ranging from 1.53 to 1.54, a relative density of 2.73 to 2.79, and a Mohs hardness between 3.89 and 6.23. The primary mineral constituents are quartz and sericite, potentially accompanied by accessory minerals such as chlorite, pyrrhotite, and ilmenite. Its structural characteristics are marked by distinct slaty and massive forms, in addition to supermylonitic, aphanitic, and palimpsest textures. The main chromogenic minerals are predominantly graphite and chlorite. The total concentration of rare earth elements fluctuates between 177.93×10-6 and 216.89×10-6 revealing a significant enrichment of light rare earth elements alongside a pronounced deficit of Europium (Eu). Zircon U-Pb dating yields an age of (331.3±2.3) Ma, corresponding to the Middle Carboniferous Epoch. Integrating regional structural analyses with geological data suggests that the parent rock of “Panglong Dark Jade” is a normal sedimentary rock that underwent regional metamorphism to form carbonaceous slate, subsequently modified by hydrothermal activity to produce “Panglong Dark Jade”.

    Geochemical Characteristics and Genesis of Basaltic Metasomatic Nephrite in the Qiangui Region, China
    TIAN Ranting, BAI Feng, XU Lingling, LI Jingjing, CHE Yandong, DU Jiming
    2025, 39(01):  194-208.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2025.007
    Asbtract ( 47 )   HTML ( 7)   PDF (4630KB) ( 30 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    Nephrite is an important mineral resource, and its geochemical characteristics are crucial for understanding the genesis of mineral deposits and assessing resource potential. This study investigates the basaltic rock-hosted nephrite from the Guizhou Luodian, Guangxi Dahua, and Guangxi Bama regions. Utilizing electron microprobe analysis and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), we systematically analyzed the major, trace, and rare earth element compositions of representative nephrite samples. The findings indicate that the primary chemical constituents of basaltic rock-hosted nephrite in the Qiangui region are SiO2, CaO, and MgO, with average concentrations lower than the theoretical values for tremolite minerals. The SiO2 content is found to be higher than that of ultramafic deposits, yet shows no significant difference when compared to neutral acidic nephrite, suggesting a relationship with silica supplied by surrounding rocks and late-stage hydrothermal fluids. Trace element analysis reveals pronounced positive anomalies for U, La, and Sm and a notable negative anomaly for Nb, while Ba exhibits no negative anomalies, providing a means to differentiate this nephrite from other genetic varieties. The rare earth element distribution patterns of Guizhou and Guangxi basaltic rock-hosted nephrite demonstrate significant similarity, with clear distinctions between light and heavy rare earth elements. Light rare earth elements are particularly enriched, and there are recognizable negative anomalies for Ce and Eu. Furthermore, the diabase associated with Guizhou and Guangxi nephrite shows strong affinity to Emeishan basalt, as reflected in their similar rare earth element distribution patterns. Finally, based on the variations in δCe, δEu, and ∑REE values among nephrite from different sources, effective differentiation can be achieved through dendrogram analysis.

    Chemical Composition Analysis of Emeralds from the Mingora Region, Pakistan: Insights into Formation Mechanisms
    ZHAO Hongxing, CAI Jingkun, XU Yingxin, LI Yuxuan, LIU Yingxin
    2025, 39(01):  209-223.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2025.008
    Asbtract ( 46 )   HTML ( 8)   PDF (4594KB) ( 23 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    The emeralds from the Swat region of Pakistan are notable for their unique color and exceptional crystal quality; however, the chemical composition of Mingora emeralds in this area has not been systematically studied. This research employs Electron Probe Microanalysis (EMPA) and Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) techniques to conduct a comprehensive chemical composition analysis of emerald samples from the Mingora deposit, aiming to explore their chemical properties and uncover the geological environmental influences during their formation. The results indicate that the average degree of isomorphous substitution in Mingora emeralds is 12.79%, primarily occurring at the tetrahedral T2 site of beryllium (Be), classifying them as “tetrahedral-type” emeralds. Additionally, the channel structure of these emeralds contains a rich concentration of alkali metal ions, with estimated H2O content ranging from 2.28% to 2.41%. Notably, the projection of Mingora emeralds in the Cr-V content diagram shows that the chromium (Cr) content is consistently higher than 4,500×10-6, which is significantly higher than that of emeralds from other global sources. Through comparative analysis of trace elements such as rubidium (Rb), cesium (Cs), scandium (Sc), and lithium (Li), this study provides essential scientific supports and new insights for the provenance determination of emeralds.

    Gemological Characteristics and Genesis of Aventurescence in a Typical Sunstone Sample from Tanzania
    YU Liyuan, LIU Yingxin
    2025, 39(01):  224-230.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2025.009
    Asbtract ( 41 )   HTML ( 7)   PDF (3831KB) ( 16 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    As a noteworthy member of the feldspar family, sunstone has garnered significant attention due to its distinctive aventurescence. This study extensively investigates the mineral composition and inclusion characteristics of a sunstone sourced from Tanzania through a combination of conventional gemological tests and advanced analytical techniques, including polarizing microscopy, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), electron microprobe analysis (EPMA), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and Raman spectroscopy. The findings reveal that the sunstone is classified as a potassium feldspar mineral, predominantly comprising microcline. Numerous inclusions exhibiting orange-red, green, and brown colors are identified as hematite, displaying a layered arrangement oriented in two mutually perpendicular directions, thereby producing a unique aventurescence. This research provides valuable insights into the mineralogical characteristics of sunstone and contributes to the broader understanding of its gemological properties.

    Identification Characteristics of Type IIa Pink Diamonds Treated with Multiple Processing Techniques
    WANG Yang, SONG Zhonghua, PAN Di, TAO Zhendong, LU Zhenping, CHENG Yuhan
    2025, 39(01):  231-238.  DOI: 10.19657/j.geoscience.1000-8527.2024.069
    Asbtract ( 48 )   HTML ( 2)   PDF (2028KB) ( 13 )  
    Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

    A multiple-treatment process was developed to produce orange-pink-red coloration into both natural and synthetic diamonds through the controlled introduction of NV centers, including HPHT annealing and subsequent irradiation and annealing. Most of these processed diamonds are Type Ia, coloured by the N3 center and high concentration of the NV center, result in deep purplish red to deep red diamonds. With the development of technology, there have been type IIa multiple-treatment pink diamonds on the market in recent years, which have lower nitrogen content and more vibrant pink hue compared to Type Ia diamonds. And the color of such processed diamonds is closer to untreated natural pink Type IIa diamonds coloured by NV centres, treated synthetic diamonds coloured by the introduction of NV centres. Two multiple-treated natural pink diamonds have been tested and analysed in detail to better understand their identification characteristics and to facilitate differentiation from other types of Type IIa pink diamonds. Graphitized fractures and crystal inclusions were visible under the microscope. UV-Vis-NIR spectra collected at liquid-nitrogen temperature showed strong GR1 and NV centers, the emissions of the NV centers were superimposed on the absorption spectrum. The different concentration of the NV and GR1 defects resulted in different hues of the two diamonds, one purplish pink and the other is orangy pink. In the near-infrared region, the dominant feature was strong absorption band at 9,287 cm-1,which has been reported to be related to irradiation treatment. Irradiation-related PL peaks 3H, GR1 and 595nm absorption were detected. The growth structure under DiamondView is still the main identification basis for natural and synthetic pink diamonds.