EXPLORATION MODEL DISSEMINATED GOLD-SULPHIDE DEPOSITS OF ARCTIC ZONE OF RUSSIA

In this paper, we present an exploration model, which summarizes the most important characteristics of the gold-sulphide deposits of disseminated ores (GSD). Search model is based primarily on the results of the study GSD Mayskoye (Central Chukotka) and GSD other parts of Russia. At the forefront of geological-genetic model we put the most important, in our view, the indicator factors of GSD. The GSD are formed in various tectono-metallogenic settings. The GSD are characterized by a high gold/silver ratio and a relatively even distribution of gold, present mainly as finely dispersed inclusions in arsenopyrite (As, 1–7%) and Sb-arsenopyrite (Sb, 0.001–0.1%). Gold-bearing sulfides form fine and thin impregnations in the zones of crushing and foliation. The content of these sulfides in ores varies from 5 to 15% (on average, 8–10%). The ores of GSD oxidation zones (weathering crusts) are often of great independent industrial value. Mercurial and antimonial manifestations serve as an important sign of detecting large deposits of gold–sulfide disseminated ores. Consequently, the consistent replacement of viscous plastic deformations, typical of the compression regime, with fragile extension strains occurred in GSD ore-hosting structures.This replacement of tectonic regimes reflects the geodynamic conditions of mineralization, general for all GSDs. The most amazing point in the structure of large GSD is that no zonality, typical of hydrothermal deposits, was detected at depths down to 3 km and deeper in ore bodies, suggesting the hypothesis of nonhydrothermal accumulation of invisible gold. In many countries in GSD have large reserves — the main potential source of gold production. Involvement in the exploitation of new GSD will allow, according to the authors, to increase and stabilize the level of gold production in the Arctic regions of Russia, as in every field can be extracted annually from 5-10 and more tons of gold for decades.

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