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

LÓPEZ, L.; GUIDO, D.M.; JOVIC, S.M.; PAEZ, G.N.; RUIZ, R.; PERMUY VIDAL, C.

Uppsala

Congreso; 12th SGA Biennial Meeting; 2013

Society for Geology Applied to Mineral Deposits (SGA)

Geochemical data from 19 of the 70 veins of the Pingüino project were analysed. The Pingüino vein system is characterized by two vein types: early polymetallic-rich veins, and late quartz-rich veins. Average vein metal values and spatial distribution of In, Au, Ag; Pb, Zn, Cu; As, Cd and Mn were determined in order to conform groups with similar geochemical behaviour. The distribution of individual elements shows a metals source indicated is the top of the interpreted Kasia dioritic intrusion, with other secondary metal sources at Kalia, Tranquilo, Luna, Fantasma, Marta Norte, Karina and Islaveins areas/intrusion. According to Ag/Au ratio and indiumcontent 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 veins (with intermediate In and Ag/Au values) reflects the mixing between the two main type of veins. These trends have a clear geographic association with the 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.