Geochemical analysis of the Pingüino vein system, Patagonia, Argentina: Implications in Exploration

LOPEZ, L.; GUIDO, D.; JOVIC, S.; PAEZ, G.; RUIZ, R.; PERMUY VIDAL, C.

Upsala

Encuentro; 12th SGA Biennial Meeting; 2013

SGA

Geochemical data from 19 of the 70 veins of the Pingüino project were analysed. Pingüino vein system is characterized by two vein types: early polymetallic rich veins, and late quartz rich veins. Determinations of average vein metal values and spatial distribution of In, Au, Ag; Pb, Zn, Cu; As, Cd and Mn were performed in order to conform groups with similar geochemical behaviour. Individual elements distribution shows a main metals source point on top of the interpreted Kasia dioritic intrusion, with other secondary metal sources at KAL, TR, LUN, FAN, MN, KAR and ISL veins areas/intrusives. According to Ag/Au ratio and indium content three trends were identified; T1 (high In and low Ag/Au) is related to Lower Jurassic diorites and sulphide-rich veins. T2 (low to highest Au/Ag and low In values) is related to Middle Jurassic andesitic porphyries and Ag-rich quartz-rich veins. T3 gather veins with intermediate In and Ag/Au values, reflecting the mixing between the two main type of veins. These trends have a clear geographic association with Kasia intrusion and show a zonation pattern. The geochemical distribution and relationship of metal sources with intrusions should be considered in future Deseado Massif exploration