Genesis and Evolution of Pb-Zn-Ag Polymetallic Deposits

There are many types of Pb–Zn–Ag polymetallic deposits in the world, including SEDEX, MVT, VMS, skarn, nonsulfide and polygenetic deposits, causing long-term controversy inassociated with their genesis and evolution. The aim of this reprint is to bring the reader a better understanding of the Pb–Zn–Ag polymetallic mineralization mechanism and process, which is based on precise and accurate data obtained from the state-of-the-art in situ analytical techniques used in recent years. In this reprint, nine contributions from China and one from the Czech Republic share their new research findings and insights into typical Pb–Zn–Ag polymetallic deposits, mainly focusing on the nature, source and evolution of ore-forming fluids, the mechanism of ore-forming metal migration and precipitation, the physical and chemical condition for Pb–Zn–Ag mineralization, and the precise metallogenic age. It is a small step towards elucidating the genesis and evolution of Pb–Zn–Ag polymetallic deposits, and more precise and systematic studies are needed to further advance our knowledge in the future.