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Genesis and Metallogeny of Non-Ferrous and Precious Metal Deposits, 3rd...
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Genesis and Metallogeny of Non-Ferrous and Precious Metal Deposits, 3rd Edition

A special issue of Minerals (ISSN 2075-163X). This special issue belongs to the section "Mineral Deposits".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (10 April 2026) | Viewed by 5033

Editors

Prof. Dr. Yunsheng Ren

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. College of Earth Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130061, China
2. Institute of Disaster Prevention, Sanhe 065201, China
Interests: mineral deposits and regional metallogeny; genesis and mineralization of non-ferrous metal deposits
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Qun Yang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
College of Earth Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130061, China
Interests: mineral deposits; mineralization; mineral exploration; exploration geology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue of Minerals, titled "Genesis and Metallogeny of Non-Ferrous and Precious Metal Deposits, 3rd Edition" (with 23 and 17 publications in the 1st and 2nd Editions, respectively), systematically synthesizes cutting-edge research on the mineralization theory of non-ferrous and precious metal deposits within the field of economic geology. Focusing on deposit types such as gold, lead–zinc, copper–molybdenum, and tin, the research employs multidisciplinary approaches across multiple scales, including isotopic geochemical tracing, thermodynamic analysis of fluid inclusions, high-precision geochronology, and in situ microanalysis of minerals, to elucidate the mineralization geodynamic setting, deep-seated material-energy transfer processes, fluid evolution, and mechanisms of anomalous metal enrichment. This Special Issue systematically addresses four key theoretical issues: 1) the role of crust–mantle interaction in the initial enrichment of precious metal elements; 2) the physicochemical controls on metal differentiation and precipitation during the evolution of magmatic–hydrothermal systems; 3) the driving mechanisms of multi-stage mineralization through the coupling of tectonic, fluid, and rock reactions; and 4) the role of surface-generated and deep-generated superimposed mineralization effects in the formation of complex deposits. These investigations not only establish a comprehensive theoretical framework for multi-element syngenetic mineralization but also advance the development of mineralization system models within the context of plate tectonics. Furthermore, they provide critical scientific insights for refining the genetic classification of metal deposits and enhancing the theoretical foundation for predicting global mineralization patterns.

Therefore, this Special Issue is designed to emphasize research into the ore genesis of various types of non-ferrous metal and precious metal deposits, with particular attention to the application of advanced analytical methods in understanding their ore-formation mechanisms. This Special Issue seeks to establish an integrated framework linking mineralization theory, technical methodologies, and exploration applications by incorporating significant theoretical advances, technological innovations, and regional mineralization patterns, thereby serving as a key link connecting basic research with global resource exploration practices.

Prof. Dr. Yunsheng Ren
Dr. Qun Yang
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-anonymized peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Minerals is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • ore genesis
  • mineralization mechanisms
  • geochronology
  • geochemistry
  • non-ferrous and precious metal deposits

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

20 pages, 7697 KB  
Article
The Nam Xan Gold Deposit, Laos: Evidence for a Distal Intrusion-Related Gold System in the Truong Son Fold Belt
by Bounheuang Phanpasert, Ruidong Yang, Jun Chen, Patthana Bounliyong, Yifan Wen and Xinzheng Li
Minerals 2026, 16(6), 600; https://doi.org/10.3390/min16060600 - 3 Jun 2026
Viewed by 861
Abstract
The Nam Xan gold deposit is located in the central Truong Son Fold Belt of Laos. It is a newly identified distal intrusion-related gold system (IRGS) in a continental arc setting. This study uses whole-rock geochemistry, Pb and S isotope systematics, and mineral-scale [...] Read more.
The Nam Xan gold deposit is located in the central Truong Son Fold Belt of Laos. It is a newly identified distal intrusion-related gold system (IRGS) in a continental arc setting. This study uses whole-rock geochemistry, Pb and S isotope systematics, and mineral-scale analyses to trace magmatic evolution and ore-forming processes. Whole-rock data indicate that the associated intrusive suite is a calc-alkaline volcanic-arc granite (VAG) series, derived from a subduction-modified mantle source with notable crustal contributions. Pb isotopes reveal mixing arrays rather than true isochrons. Monte Carlo modeling shows binary mantle–crust mixing for igneous rocks and ternary mixing with an additional radiogenic component in ore samples, indicating enhanced fluid–rock interaction during mineralization. Sulfur isotope data show a shift from magmatic sulfur (δ34S ≈ −5‰) in early skarn-stage pyrite to heavier values (δ34S ≈ +6‰) in gold-bearing stages, reflecting fluid evolution driven by cooling and redox changes. Mineral chemistry data demonstrate that gold is present both as invisible gold within arsenian pyrite and as free gold in late-stage fractures. Strong correlations between Au and As, along with elevated Co/Ni ratios and enrichments in Bi, W, and F, collectively support a magmatic-hydrothermal origin. These findings define a three-stage mineralization process: an initial phase involving high-temperature magmatic fluids, a main stage characterized by sulfidation and gold deposition, and a final stage marked by polymetallic overprinting. The Nam Xan deposit is therefore interpreted as the distal manifestation of a Permian arc-related magmatic system in which magmatic fluids migrated along structural conduits and precipitated gold through interaction with carbonate host rocks. The identification of these intrusions in the distal IRGS at Nam Xan informs regional exploration models in the Truong Son Fold Belt, demonstrating the potential of carbonate platforms near Permian intrusions for future mineral exploration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genesis and Metallogeny of Non-Ferrous and Precious Metal Deposits, 3rd Edition)
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24 pages, 15341 KB  
Article
Ore Genesis of the Shizui Cu-Pb-Zn Deposit in Central Jilin Province, NE China: Constraints from Geology, Fluid Inclusions, H–O Isotopes Studies
by Zhibo Ge, Wenqiang Bai, Haoran Li, Yunsheng Ren, Chan Li, Bin Wang, Haozhe Li, Sitong Chen and Qun Yang
Minerals 2026, 16(6), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/min16060579 - 27 May 2026
Viewed by 578
Abstract
The Shizui Cu–Pb–Zn deposit is located in central Jilin Province. It sits at the tectonic junction between the eastern Xing’an–Mongolia Orogenic Belt (XMOB) and the northeastern North China Craton (NCC). This is the first discovered Paleozoic Cu-polymetallic deposit in the region. Our study [...] Read more.
The Shizui Cu–Pb–Zn deposit is located in central Jilin Province. It sits at the tectonic junction between the eastern Xing’an–Mongolia Orogenic Belt (XMOB) and the northeastern North China Craton (NCC). This is the first discovered Paleozoic Cu-polymetallic deposit in the region. Our study combines detailed geological investigation with systematic fluid inclusion analysis. We analyzed samples from four distinct paragenetic stages. Analytical methods include microthermometry, laser Raman spectroscopy, and hydrogen-oxygen isotope analysis. These data constrain the source, evolution, and precipitation mechanisms of the ore-forming fluids. The results delineate a clear evolutionary path: the ore-forming fluid originated as a high-temperature (346–437 °C), high-salinity (up to 51.68 wt.% NaCl equiv.) NaCl–H2O–CO2 system during the early quartz-sulfide stage (Stage I, Quartz ± Arsenopyrite ± Pyrite Stage), as evidenced by the coeval presence of high-salinity S-type and CO2-rich C-type inclusions, indicating fluid immiscibility. The fluid then evolved into a boiling, medium temperature to high temperature (262–355 °C), high-salinity NaCl–H2O system during the later part of early quartz-sulfide stage (Stage II, Quartz-Cu Polymetallic Sulfide Stage), a transition marked by the common coexistence of liquid-rich (L-type) and vapor-rich (V-type) inclusions with similar homogenization temperatures. This phase separation (boiling) served as the primary trigger for the massive deposition of chalcopyrite, arsenopyrite, and pyrite. Subsequently, the system cooled and diluted, transforming into a medium- to low-temperature (182–275 °C), low-salinity, partially homogeneous NaCl–H2O system in the late quartz-sulfide stage (Stage III, Quartz-Pb-Zn Polymetallic Sulfide Stage). Finally, in the quartz-carbonate stage (Stage IV, Quartz-Carbonate Stage), the fluid temperature further decreased, resulting in a low-temperature (128–211 °C), low-salinity, homogeneous NaCl–H2O system. Hydrogen-oxygen isotope data show that the calculated δ18OH2O values decreased from +6.6‰ to +6.7‰ in Stage I to +3.4‰ to +3.9‰ in Stage II, and further to −0.4‰ in Stage III, while the δD values shifted from −91.6‰ to −90.6‰, to −94.4‰ to −94.2‰, and finally to −95.7‰. This trend indicates that the initial magmatic fluid progressively mixed with meteoric water. The geological characteristics, spatial association with Hercynian biotite monzogranite, developed skarn alteration, and the documented fluid evolution trajectory collectively affirm that the Shizui deposit is a typical skarn-type system. The deposit shares significant similarities in mineralization conditions, age, and tectonic setting with the skarn-type Tianbaoshan Pb–Zn–Cu–Mo deposits in the western segment of the XarMoron–Changchun Metallogenic Belt (XCMB). This correlation strongly suggests that the Paleozoic XCMB extends eastward and holds considerable potential for the discovery of late Paleozoic skarn-type Cu-polymetallic deposits in its eastern part. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genesis and Metallogeny of Non-Ferrous and Precious Metal Deposits, 3rd Edition)
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21 pages, 6716 KB  
Article
Age of Ore Formation in the Ailinwudui Gold Deposit, Central Jilin, NE China: Geochronological Data and Metallogenic Insights
by Chengbao Geng, Mingxin Duan, Zhande Hou, Yanchao Cao, Zeyou Xuan, Hongqiang Zhao, Haicheng Zhang and Yongmei Zhang
Minerals 2026, 16(5), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/min16050469 - 30 Apr 2026
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Abstract
The Ailinwudui gold deposit is located in central Jilin Province and represents a newly discovered typical vein-type gold deposit hosted in a Paleozoic metamorphic rock series in recent years. At present, the metallogenic epoch and regional metallogenic tectonic setting of the deposit remain [...] Read more.
The Ailinwudui gold deposit is located in central Jilin Province and represents a newly discovered typical vein-type gold deposit hosted in a Paleozoic metamorphic rock series in recent years. At present, the metallogenic epoch and regional metallogenic tectonic setting of the deposit remain poorly constrained, which seriously restricts the understanding of gold metallogenic regularities and subsequent mineral exploration deployment in central Jilin. Previous studies indicate that the Ailinwudui gold deposit is a structurally controlled vein-type gold deposit. In this study, zircon U-Pb and muscovite 40Ar/39Ar geo-chronology were employed to precisely constrain the metallogenic timing of the gold mineralization. Zircon U-Pb dating yields an emplacement age of 174.7 ± 0.85 Ma for the granodiorite and a formation age of 209.5 ± 1.40 Ma for the rhyolite porphyry. Muscovite 40Ar/39Ar dating yields a plateau age of 180.39 ± 1.83 Ma, which confines the gold mineralization to the Early–Middle Jurassic. Whole-rock geochemical results reveal that the granitoids in the study area are enriched in large-ion lithophile elements (LILEs) and light rare earth elements (LREEs) and depleted in high-field-strength elements (HFSEs), showing typical arc-related magmatic affinities. The formation of this gold deposit is related to the subduction of the Paleo-Pacific Plate during the Early–Middle Jurassic. The research results can provide important geochronological and geochemical evidence for the study of gold metallogenic mechanisms and mineral exploration in central Jilin Province. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genesis and Metallogeny of Non-Ferrous and Precious Metal Deposits, 3rd Edition)
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22 pages, 13981 KB  
Article
Geological Characteristics and Genesis of the Greisen-Hosted Nb-Ta Mineralization in the Qidashan Iron Deposit, Liaoning Province, China, and Its Implications
by Yang Xiao, Rongzhen Gao, Qing Sun, Jianfei Fu, Yuzeng Yao, Sanshi Jia and Jiale Chen
Minerals 2026, 16(3), 312; https://doi.org/10.3390/min16030312 - 16 Mar 2026
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Abstract
The newly identified greisen-hosted Nb-Ta mineralization in the Qidashan iron deposit, Liaoning Province, China, offers a unique opportunity to explore how hydrothermal processes contribute to the enrichment of critical metals. In this study, an integrated analytical approach of petrographic observation and scanning electron [...] Read more.
The newly identified greisen-hosted Nb-Ta mineralization in the Qidashan iron deposit, Liaoning Province, China, offers a unique opportunity to explore how hydrothermal processes contribute to the enrichment of critical metals. In this study, an integrated analytical approach of petrographic observation and scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive spectrometer (SEM-EDS), electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA), and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (LA-ICP-MS) U-Pb dating of columbite-group minerals (CGMs) were employed to systematically decipher the paragenetic sequence, micro-structure, elemental composition and mineralization age of CGMs, aiming at the genesis of greisen-hosted Nb-Ta mineralization. The mineralization is characterized by the abundant occurrence of CGMs. Three generations of CGMs and two mineralization stages are distinguished: stage I contains CGM Is and CGM IIs, with Nb2O5 ranging from 25.7 to 69.56 wt.% and Ta2O5 from 5.8 to 52.5 wt.%; stage II contains CGM IIIs, with Nb2O5 between 59.5 and 71.5 wt.% and Ta2O5 between 3.5 and 16.2 wt.%. CGM Is consist of euhedral, homogeneous crystals of more than 100 μm, exhibit low Ta/(Nb + Ta) ratios (0.05–0.06) and high Mn/(Fe + Mn) ratios (0.19–0.26), and belong to columbite-Fe. CGM IIs generally overgrow on CGM Is with hydrothermal overprinting textures, and show significant compositional gaps compared to CGM Is, exhibiting higher Ta/(Nb + Ta) ratios (0.13–0.55) and restricted Mn/(Fe + Mn) ratios (0.15–0.18), with some belonging to columbite-Fe and others to tantalite-Fe, which reveals a transition from magma to “hydrosilicate fluid”. CGM IIIs are mainly anhedral and homogeneous, with a grain size of less than 50 μm. However, some CGM IIIs overgrow on CGM IIs and/or CGM Is with patchy textures indicative of subsequent hydrothermal overprinting of hydrosilicate fluid, forming a coarse-grain size over 100 μm. CGM IIIs are characterized by lower Ta/(Nb + Ta) ratios (0.03–0.14) and variable Mn/(Fe + Mn) ratios (0.08–0.26), and they belong to columbite-Fe. LA-ICP-MS U-Pb dating yields weighted mean 206Pb/238U ages of 2646 ± 15 Ma for stage I and 2500 ± 28 Ma for stage II, indicating two-stage Nb-Ta mineralization. The early mineralization may correlate with the partial melting of volcanic–sedimentary rocks due to the geothermal anomalies associated with ~2.7 Ga submarine volcanism, and the late mineralization formed by the magmatic hydrothermal activities related to emplacement of the Qidashan granite in 2.5 Ga. We therefore propose that the two-stage greisen-hosted Nb-Ta mineralization probably widely occurred in these sedimentary–metamorphic iron deposits in the Anshan–Benxi area and even in the northern edge of the North China Craton, and it may provide new insights for evaluating the Nb-Ta resource potential in similar Algoma-type iron deposits globally. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genesis and Metallogeny of Non-Ferrous and Precious Metal Deposits, 3rd Edition)
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21 pages, 17743 KB  
Article
Garnet Geochemistry of the Tietangdong Breccia Pipe, Yixingzhai Gold Deposit, North China Craton: Constraints on Hydrothermal Fluid Evolution
by Junwu Zhang, Jing Lu, Juquan Zhang, Fangyue Wang and Xian Liang
Minerals 2025, 15(12), 1290; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15121290 - 9 Dec 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1028
Abstract
The Yixingzhai deposit is a giant gold system containing four cryptovolcanic breccia pipes, several of which host significant porphyry-type gold orebodies at depth. A key exploration target is the Tietangdong cryptovolcanic breccia pipe, characterized by skarn alteration in its upper zones. However, the [...] Read more.
The Yixingzhai deposit is a giant gold system containing four cryptovolcanic breccia pipes, several of which host significant porphyry-type gold orebodies at depth. A key exploration target is the Tietangdong cryptovolcanic breccia pipe, characterized by skarn alteration in its upper zones. However, the evolution of early hydrothermal fluids and their implications for gold enrichment potential remain poorly understood. This study employs an integrated approach—combining petrography, electron probe microanalysis, laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), and LA-ICP-MS elemental mapping—to analyze zoned garnets within the Tietangdong skarn, with the aim of deciphering changes in magmatic–hydrothermal composition and physicochemical conditions, as well as their influence on gold enrichment. Textural and compositional data reveal three distinct generations of garnets. Garnets from generations I and III consist of a grossular–andradite solid solution and commonly exhibits optical anisotropy. In contrast, generation II garnet is predominantly andraditic and optically homogeneous. LA-ICP-MS elemental mapping of generations I and III indicates that both generations contain significant Al and Fe, with their optical anisotropy attributed to a high degree of Fe3+/Al3+ cationic ordering. Compared to generations I and III, generation II garnet displays distinct geochemical characteristics, including enrichment in Fe, As, Sn, W, and U, patterns enriched in light rare earth elements, a positive Eu anomaly, and a wide range of Y/Ho ratios. Garnets from generations I and III crystallized under relatively high-pressure, high-temperature, and low-oxygen fugacity conditions, whereas generation II garnets formed under lower pressure–temperature conditions and higher oxygen fugacity. Moreover, concentrations of Co, Ni, and Cu increase systematically from generation I to generation III. We interpret the sharp compositional break at generation II as recording of the pulsed injection of magmatic–hydrothermal fluids, which enhanced the potential for gold mineralization. The zoning patterns in garnet provide a robust record of the temporal evolution of physicochemical conditions and fluid composition in the hydrothermal system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genesis and Metallogeny of Non-Ferrous and Precious Metal Deposits, 3rd Edition)
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