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l. AACHENER QEOWISSENSCHAFTLICHE BEITRAGE oWa

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Gold mineralization in Archaean banded iron-formation
of the Quadrilatero Ferrifero, Minas Gerais, Brazil

The Cuiaba Mine

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i AACHENER QEOWISSENSCHAFTLICHE BEITRAG£

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( Gold mineralization in Archaean banded iron-formation
l of the Quadrilatero Ferrifero , Minas Gerais, Brazil -
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The Cuiaba Mine
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( Luii: Claudio Ribeiro-Rodrigues

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( ~/..0 DA WFIQUE ESTA !;TIQUET/,
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Die vorliegende Arbeit wurde als Dissertation am Lehrstuhl und lnstitut fUr Mineralogie und
( Lag erstattenlehre der RWTH Aachen angefertigt (Mitteilungen zur Mineralogie und
( Lagerstattenkunde; 51 I herausgegeben vom Lehrstuhl fOr Mineralogie und Lagerstattenlehre
l der RWTH Aachen, Prof. Dr. G. £_rLe~r~ch)
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( VORWORT
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( Das ,.Eiserne Viereck" (Quadrilatero Ferrifero) mit der goldfOhrenden ,Banded Iron Formation"
( (BIF), Gold-Quarzgangen und goldfOhrenden Metavulkaniten stellt eine der wichtigsten
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Goldprovinzen der Welt dar. Die an archaische gebanderte Eisenerze gebundene
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Goldlagerstatte Cuiaba zahlt derzeit zu den bedeutendsten Goldvorkommen Brasiliens und ist
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durch besonders gunstige Aufschlu~verhaltnisse gekennzeichnet.
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( Obwoh l das Gebiet die bestkartierte Region Brasiliens ist, gibt es noch immer viele
\ Diskussionen und Kontroversen Ober Genese, Alter und kontrollierende Faktoren der
( Goldmineralisation. Die intensive Oberflachenverwitterung und die frOhere restriktive Politik der
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Bergwerksgesellschaften beeintrachtigten eine genaue Untersuchung der Nova Lima Gruppe
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(der untere Bereich der Rio das Velhas Supergroup Greenstone Belt Sequenz), in der die
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wichtigsten Goldlagerstatten auftreten. A us diesem Grund gibt es bisher nur wenige
(

( '
wissenschaftliche Arbeiten Ober die Goldmineralisation.

( Die Erfolge bei der Goldprospektion in anderen Landern in den vergangenen zwei
( Jahrzehnten resultierten zum gro~en Teil aus der Anwendung von neuen genetischen
(
Modellen und Entwicklung von neuen Explorationsmethoden. Diese wurden meistens in enger
(
Kooperation zwischen Bergwerksgesellschaften und Forschungszentren bzw. Universitaten
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mittels systematischer Gelande- und Laboruntersuchungen entwickelt.
(

( Die vorliegende Dissertation wurde im Rahmen eines Promotionsprogrammes (CAPES-DAAD

Abkommen) am lnstitut fOr Mineralogie und Lagerstattenlehre (IML) der Rheinisch-
( I
Westfalischen Technischen Hochschule Aachen (RWTH) im Zuge eines gemeinsamen
(
Forschungsvorhabens mit der Bergakademie der Bundesuniversitat Ouro Preto (UFOP) Ober
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,Mineralisationskontrolle und Genese der Goldlagerstatte Cuiaba, Quadrilatero Ferrifero,
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Minas Gerais, Brasilien" durchgefOhrt. Unter Zug rundelegung neuer geologischer Konzepte
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(z.B. zur tektonischen Entwicklung des Eisernen Vierecks) und mit neu gewonnenen
(
( geologischen Daten, wird im Rahmen dieser Forschungsarbeiten am Beispie l der Goldgrube
( Cuiaba versucht, einen Beitrag zur Klarung der Genese der Mineralisation im Quadrilatero
( Ferrlfero und zur Erarbeitung neuer Prospektionskriterien zu leisten.
(
Herrn Prof. Dr. Gunther Friedrich (IMLIRWTH Aachen) danke ich herzlichst fOr die Betreuung
des Forschungsvorhabens und sein standiges Interesse am Fortgang und Gelingen der
Dissertation. Ganz besonders danke ich ihm fOr die gemeinsame Gelandearbeit in Brasilien
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( und die Ermoglichung der Teilnahme an Tagungen, Kursen und Exkursionen. Die dabei
gefOhrten Diskussionen mit Fachkollegen Ober Ziele, Ergebnisse und Methoden haben sich in

( hohem Ma~e fordend auf die DurchfOhrung dieses Forschungsvorhabens ausgewirkt.

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Anme rkung en und Herrn Prof. Dr. Heinrich Siemes (IMLIRWTH Aachen) fUr die Begutachtung
der jahrlichen Fortschritte der Arbeit beim DAAD, CAPES und CNPq.

Roger Lang, Gunther Pieplow, Peter Buchholz, Johannes Jochum, Jorn Ebeling, Alazar Y.
Billay, Jochen Kolb , Robert Ertl, meinen .,Kumpels" am lnstitut danke ich fOr ihre
Hilfbereitschaft und ihr Verstandnis fOr die alltaglichen Schwierigkeiten eines auslandischen
Studenten . Roger und Gunther, the .. room 413 team", danke ich auch fOr ihre Gesellschaft und
das Beibringen ihrer fabulosen "C omputer-Tricks".

Meinen Dank mochte ich allen Mitarbeitern des IMLIRWTH fOr ihre Freundschaft und
Hilfestellung bei der DurchfOhrung der Untersuch ung en aussprechen, insbesondere Monika
Wiechert (Fotolabor}, Rolf Neef (Geochemisches Labor), Wilhelm Grawinkel und Thomas
Derichs (Schlifflabor}, Gertrud Siebel und Dr. Rainer Gussone (Rontgenlabor), Dr. Annemarie
Wiechowski und Barbara Thiele (Eiektronenstrahlmikrosonde), Martin Brand (Eietronik-
werkstatt), Gunth er Paprotny (Mechanische W erkstatt) sowie Hildegard Breuers und Dr. Ute
Muller (Sekretariat).

Bei allen Freunden in Aachen, insbesonde re bei Bernhard Unger, Guido Nilgen, Marcos dos
Santos-Rocha und Miriam LOttgen , mochte ich mich fOr ihre Unterstotzung und Freundschaft
bedanken.

Meiner geliebten Familie Ribeiro-Rodrigues gilt mein besonderer Dank fOr die Unterstotzung
und das stetige Interesse am Gelingen meiner Arbeit.

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Gema~ Beschlu~ der Fakultat fOr Bergbau , HOttenwesen und Geowissenschaften kann die ·
vorliegende Dissertation in englischer Sprache abgefa(l,t werden. Eine deutsche Kurzfassung
( I
ist am Ende der Arbeit eingefOgt (Seite 219-230).
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] CONTENTS
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VORWORT I
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CONTENTS v
FOR EWORD IX
r PR EFACIO XII
( ZUSAMMENFASSUNG XV
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i ABSTRACT XVII
( t
iI RESUMO XIX
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1 INTRODUCTION 1
r 1.1 Location and mining history of the Cuiaba Mine ...... ... ... ......... .... .. .......... ..... 1
( 1.2 Objectives .............. .......... .... .... .. ... .. ..... .. ... ... ......... .......... ...... ................ ....... 2
1.3 Methods of investigation .... .. .... .. .. ........ .............. ............ ........ .. .... .. ....... .. .... . 3

2 REGIONAL GEOLOGICAL SETTING 5

2.1 Geotectonic framework ....... .. ..... ... .... ... ....... ........................................... ...... 5
, - 2. 2 Previous works in the Quadrilatero Ferrifero area ........ .. .. .. ........... .............. 6
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( 2.3 Geology of the Quadrii<Hero Ferrifero .. .... ...... ..... .......................... ..... .. .. ...... 7

( 2.3.1 Lithological Units ... .... ... ...... ... .... ... ...... .... .... ..... ... .. .. ..... .. .... ..... .. .. ... .... ........ ..7
2.3.2 Metamorphic evolution .... ...... .. ....... .. ......... ...... ...... ...... ........... ....... ............ .10

3 AN OVERVIEW OF GOLD MINERALIZATION IN THE QUADRILAT ERO

~ FERRiFERO 11
( 3.1 lntroduction ....... ... .......... .. ........ ..... ..... ............. ...... .... .... ....... ........ .... .. ..... ... 11
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\ 3.2 Past gold mining in Brazil and gold mining in the Quadrilatero Ferrifero .. .11
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3.3 Gold mineralization in the Quadrilatero Ferrifero .. .... ...... ..... .... ............ .. .... 14
3.4 Archaean greenstone-hosted gold mineralization .. .. ...... ... ...... .... ... .... .. .. .. .17
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,. 3.4.1 Host rocks ...... .. .. ........... ........ ..... ... ...... ... ..... .. ........ ...... ....... .... ....... .. ... .... .... 22
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( . 3.4.2 Structural controls of the deposits .. .. ....... ... ..... .. .. ............. .... ....... .... .... .. .. .. 23

(_ 3.4.3 Structural styles of the gold mineralization .... .................... .... .... ..... ...... ..... 24
( 3.4.4 Metamorphism ... ............. .. ... .. ....... .. .......... .......... .. ....... ..... ... ..... ..... .. ....... .. .26
\. 3.4.5 Ore mineralogy and ore geochemistry .. .... ...... ...... .... .. ..... ......... .. ...... ........ .26
1... 3.4.6 Wallrock alteration .. .. ...... .. ... ..... ..... ... .. ... .......... ....... .. .... ..... ... .. .. .. ... ... ..... .... 26
3.4.7 Nature of ore fluids, transport and deposition of gold ......... ... .... ... .. ........... 26
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\.' 3.4.8 Timing of the gold mineralization .. ........... .............. ........ ..... .. ...... ..... .......... 28
l 3.4.9 Fluid and metal sources .................... .. .... .. ............... .......... .... .. .. ......... .. .... 30
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3.4.10 Size and grade of gold deposits ... .... .... ...... .. ...... .. ... ................. ...... .. ......... 30.
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6 GOLD MINERALIZATION 105

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( 6.1 Introduction ........................... ................................................................ 105
( 6.2 BIF-hosted mineralization ........... ............... .................... .................. ..... 105
( 6.2. 1 General characte ristics .............................. .......... ............................. .... 105
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6.2.2 Gold orebodies ....... ............... ........................................... ............. ... .... 111
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6.2.3 Ore bodies and th e En deformation .... .. ...................... ....... ................... 112
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6.2 .4 Mineralogy, petrography and mineral chemistry of the gold orebodies118
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6.2.5 Features of genetic significance ........................ .................................. 124
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( ..j 6.2.6 Timing of mineral growth ............ .. .... ................................................... 128

( -1 6.2.7 Ore geochemistry ........................................................................ ... ... .. 129

( 14 6.3 Shear-zone, mafic-hosted mineralization ............ .. ....................... .. ..... 135
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( -· 6.4 Gold chemistry ........... .................................... ........ .... .......... .. .............. 142
( 6.4.1 Gold fineness .......................................... ............................................ 142
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6.5 Summary and discussion .......... .... .. .... ................................................. 146

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7 NATURE OF FLUIDS, TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITION OF GOLD 153

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7.1 Gold mineralization and wall rock alteration ............................ .. ........... 153
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7 .1.1 Alteration of th e Cuiaba-BIF .......................................... .. .... .... .. .......... 153
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( 7 .1.2 Alteration of mafic metavolcanics ................................ .. ........ .. ............ 158
( 7 .1.3 Alteration of clastic metasediments .. ................................................... 163
(_ 7.2 Geothermometry and geobarometry ........................ .................. .... .. .... 164
\_ 7 .2. 1 Arsenopyrite geothermometry .......................... ................................... 164
( 7 .2.2 Sphalerite geobarometer ................................ .................. .. .. .... .... ....... 167
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7.3 Stable isotope investigations ............................................................... 167
l. 7.4 Summary and discussion ............................... ...................................... 170
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8 COMPARISON WITH OTHER BIF-HOSTED GOLD DEPOSITS 173
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( 8.1 Introduction ................................................. .. ................................ ....... 173

l 8.2 Brazilian deposits .................................................................. .......... .... 173

l 8.3 Other deposits worldwide .............................. ............ ............ .. .......... .. 179
l. 8.4 Summary and discussion ...... .... ........................................................... 185
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l. 9 DISCUSSION OF ORE GENESIS 189
9.1 Genetic concepts for BIF-hosted gold deposits .. ........ ......................... 189
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9.2 Genetic models for the Cuiaba Mine ........................................ .. .. .. ..... 190
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9.2. 1 Evidence for ep igenetic mineralization .... ...... ............................ ......... .190
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l 9.2.2 Epigenetic single-eve nt versus epigenetic multi-stage model .............. 191

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IX
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FOREWORD
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( The Quadrilatero Ferrifero (Iron Quadrangle) is one of the most important gold provinces in the
( world comprising gold deposits mainly hosted by banded iron-formations (BIF), mafic volcanics
'
( and quartz veins. The Archaean banded iron-formation-hosted Cu iaba deposit constitutes one
of the major gold producers in Brazil and is characterized by particular well exposed structures.

In spite of the intensive field mapping in the region, there are still remaining questions and
controversies as to the genesis, age and controls of the gold mineralization. The most
important gold deposits are associated with lithologies of the Nova Lima Group, the lower unit
r '! of the Rio das Velhas greenstone belt sequence. The scarcity of fresh outcrops and the
1
(
t restrictive access policy of the mining companies has largely hampered academic research in
(
the area. Only a few Ph.D.- and M.Sc.-theses were undertaken on aspects of the gold
(
mineralization.

( 1 The great success of gold exploration in other countries in the last two decades has resulted in
co·
( the extensive application of new genetic models and in the development of new exploration
(
techniques. Most of them have evolved from systematic field and laboratory investigations as a
(
result of research cooperations between mining companies and research institutes.
(

( This Ph.D. thesis was carried out at the Institute of Mineralogy and Economic Geology (IML),
(
Aachen University of Technology (RWTH Aachen) in Germany, as part of th e project "Controls
~ and genesis of the gold mineralization at the Cuiaba Mine, Quadrilatero Ferrifero, Minas
(
Gerais, Brazil". The project represents a cooperation between IMLIRWTH Aachen and the
(
Department of Geology of the School of Mines, Federal University of Ouro Preto (UFOP),
(
( Brazil. Using new geological concepts and new available geological data for the Quadrilatero
( Ferrifero we intend with this case study of the Cuiaba Mine to contribute to a better
( understanding of the genesis of gold mineralization also establishing reliable criteria for further
pros pectic n.
(

(
I am most grateful to Prof. Dr. GUnther Friedrich (IMLIRWTH Aachen), for the supervision of

( this work and his permanent interest in the progress of the research. In particular, I want to
thank him for his fieldwork engagement and for offering the possibility and support of
participating in conferences, courses and excursions. The opportunity of technical and
academic discussions on the objectives, methods of investigation and results with other
colleagues contributed to a high degree to ·the progress of the work.

I would like to thank Prof. Dr. F. Michael Meyer for his worthy contributions and discussions as
well as for the co-supervision of this project.

(
 XI

Roger Lang, Gunther Pieplow, Peter Buchholz, Johannes Jochum, Jorn Ebeling, Alazar Y.
Billay. Jochen Kolb , Robert Ertl, my ,fellows" at the Aachen University, thanks for their
tnendship and readiness to help me with the usual difficulties of a foreign student. Roger and
Gunther , the ,room 413 team", thanks also for teaching me their fabulous computer tricks and
tor their companionship.
(
Thanks to the technical and academic staff of the Institute of Mineralogy and Economic
Geology, especially to Monika Wiechert (photo laboratory), Rolf Neef (geochemical laboratory),
Wilhelm Grawinkel and Thomas Derichs (thin and polished section laboratory), Gertrud Siebel
and Dr. Rainer Gussone (x-ray diffraction laboratory), Dr. Annemarie Wiechowski and Barbara
Thiele (electron microprobe analysis), Martin Brand (electronic workshop), Gunther Paprotny
i (mechanical workshop) as well Hildegard Breuers and Dr. Ute MUller (secretarial office) for
(
l their help and friendship during the resea rch.
(
To all friends in Aachen, especially Bernhard Unger, Guido Nilgen, Marcos dos Santos Rocha,
1 and Miriam LOttgen for their support and companionship, my gratitude.
!
.~,
To my lovely family Ribeiro-Rodrigues for their support and their constant interest in the
( success of this work, my eternal gratitude.

( '

(
 XIII

dJscussoes tecnicas e academicas com outros pesquisadores durante estes eventos, sobre
(
objetivos, metodos de trabalho e resultados, contribuiu enormemente para o desenvo lvim ento

( do projeto.

Ao Prof. Dr. F. Michael Meyer, pelas estimulantes discussoes, contribui<;oes, bem como pela
co-orientac;:ao deste projeto.

( Ao professor Dr. Claudinei G. de Oliveira (UFOP) pela orientac;:ao do projeto por parte da

( instituic;:ao brasileira, pelo interesse, apoio e valiosas discussoes. Ao Prof. Dr. Farid Chemale
( Jr. (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sui-UFRGS), agrader;:o pela orientar;:ao relativa a
geologia estrutural do dep6sito e pelas sugestoes e discussoes sobretudo durante os
trabalhos de campo.

Ao Servir;:o Alemao de lntercambio Academico (DAAD), pela bolsa de estudos e suporte

financeiro para participar;:ao em conferencias e excursoes, aquisir;:ao de livros e de
computador, transporte de amostras e passagens aereas para o trabalho de campo. A
estimada Frau Helga Wahre , responsavel pelos bolsistas brasileiros do DAAD, meu particular
'
obrigado pela aten<;ao e disponibilidad e para aconselhar e resolver "problemas e
dificuldades"!

Ao Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnol6gico (CNPq) pela bolsa

complementar e suporte financeiro para trabalhos de campo. A Coordenar;:ao de Assistencia a
Pesquisa de Ensino Superior (CAPES) e ao DAAD pelas passagens e diarias de campo para
o orientador alemao e a Funda<;ao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais
(FAPEMIG) pelas diarias para re alizar;:ao dos trabalhos de campo.

A Morro Velho Minera<;ao S.A. (Anglo American Corporation I Banco Bozano, Simonsen)
obrigado pelo acesso a dados da companhia, tais co mo relat6rios internos, mapas geol6gicos
e de amostragem, analises quimicas, bem como aos arquivos hist6ricos e a coler;:ao de
laminas. Este estudo teria sido praticamente impossivel sem a ajuda e a hospitalidade dos
geol6gos da empresa e do corpo tecnico da Minerar;:ao Morro Velho , especia lmente Frederico
l W. R. Vieira, Luis A. Callegari, Edilberto E. Biasi, Luis H. Lisboa, Geraldo Guilherme, Jaime
l Duquini, Victor Rodrigues, Geraldo A. I. Oliveira e Paschoal Caiafa. 0 incentive , a experiencia
\
e as valiosas discussoes durante os trabalhos de campo, permitiram-nos obter um melhor
(
entendimento da geologia da area , particularmente durante os estagios iniciais do trabalho.
(

l_ Ao Dr. Alexander F. M. Kisters (IMLIRWTH Aachen) pela leitura critica deste trabalho e
( inumeras discussoes !
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Ao Prof. Dr. Walter PIOger (IMLIRWTH Aachen) pela execu<;ao das analises de fluorescencia
l_
l_ de raio X, ao Dr. Thomas Oberthur (Servi<;o Geologico Alemao-BGR) pela analises de

l is6topos de enxofre, ao Prof. Dr. Paulo T. 0. Fortes (Universidade de Brasilia-UnB) pelas

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 XV
(

ZUSAMM ENFASS UNG

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o 1e Goldlagerstatte Cuiaba befindet sich im Quadrilatero Ferrifero (Eise rnes Viereck),

Bundesland Minas Gerais, Brasilien. Das Gebiet stellt reg ionalgeologisch ein Granit-G runstein-
Terran e dar, das au s dem Grund gebirg ekomplex un d der Rio das Velhas Supergroup
Greenstone Belt Sequenz (3.0-2.7 Ga) besteht. Diese Gesteine werden von proterozoi schen,
suprakrustalen Sequenze n der Minas (< 2.6-2.1 Ga) und Espinh ac;o (1 .7 Ga) Supergroups
Li berlagert.

oas Untersuchungsgebiet liegt innerh alb der Nova Lima Gruppe, die den unteren Bereich der
Rio das Velhas Supergroup darstellt. Die im Grubenbereich aufgeschlossene lithologische
Folge besteht, vom Li egenden zum Hangenden, aus mafi sche n Metavulkaniten mit kohlig en
Metased imentlinse n, dem goldfOhrend en Cuiaba-Ba nded Iron Formation (BIF)-Horizo nt sowie
\.
aus mafi schen Metavul ka niten, Metasedim enten und Metavulka noklastiten. Die Metamorphose
i hat die Gronschiefer-Fazies erreicht.
!. Die tektonischen Strukturen lasse n sich drei verschiedenen Deformationsphasen (D 1 , D2 , D3)
(
·i
! zuordnen, die in ein em Kompressio nsregime wahrend eines progressiven Ereig nisses (En)
t
! nach der Ablagerung der Min as Supergroup erfolgten. Dieses ist durch die Ausbildung von
Falten, achsenebenenparallelen Schieferungsflachen, mylonitischer Schieferung , Lineationen,
·I

Storungen, Scherzonen und Scherspalten charakterisiert. Wahrend der D1-Ph ase enstand die
dominierende Struktur der Lagerstatte, eine geschlossene, sudostlich mit 30°-40° ei nfallende
(,_ '
,tubular-sheath"-Fa lte mit ein er pervasiven achsenebenenparallelen Schieferung

!._
(S,=135 I 4 5), z.T. mit mylonitischem Charakter sowie einer auffallenden Streckungslineation
(lm 1=11 6 I 34) .
~

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- Hauptkomponenten der nicht mineralisierten BIF sind Wechsellagerungen von in ihrer
Machtigkeit von einigen Millim etern bis in den Meterbereich variierenden dunklen un d hellen
l_
Quarz-Karbonat- und Chert-Lage n. Die Mu ster der chemischen Zusammensetzung (Haupt-
und Spurenelemente) der Cui aba-BIF sind analog and erer BIF des Archaikums.
\.
Die Hauptgoldvererzu ng ist an sechs verschiedene Erzkorper von 1 bis 6 Meter Machtigkeit
gebunden, die inn erhalb des Cui aba-BIF-Horizontes auftreten . Das Erz entspricht sulfidreichen
l Bereichen der Cuiaba- BIF (> 4 ppm Au), hat helle bi s dunkl e Fa rben und ist ortlich massiv,
nicht gebandert oder rekristallisiert. Der Obergangsbereich zwischen der minera lisierten und
\. der nicht mine ralisierten BIF zeigt eine Variation der Sulfide von 30-7 0 Vol.% zu weniger als 1
(
Vol.%. und eine Abnahme der Goldgehalte von 60 pp m zu W erten unter der Nachweisg renze .
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Eine untergeordnete Goldmineralisa tion kommt assoziiert mit feinverteilten Sulfid en bzw.
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Quarz-Sulfid-Gangen in Scherzonen vo r, die Metavulkanite und Metasedimente
\.
durchschlagen.
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 XVII

.
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ABSTRACT
(

II
The Cuiaba Gold Deposit is located in th e northern pa rt of the Quadrilatero Ferrifero , Min as
Gerais State, Brazil. The reg ion constitutes an Archaea n granite-gree nstone terrane co mposed
n of a basement complex (ca . 3.2 Ga), the Rio das Ve lh as Supergroup greenstone sequence
and related granitoids (3.0-2. 7 Ga) which are overlain by th e Proterozo ic supracru stal
sequences of the Minas (< 2.6-2. 1 Ga) and of th e Espinhago (1.7 Ga) Supergroups.

The study area is sited in the Nova Lima Grou p, which forms the lower part of th e Rio das
i.
Velhas Supergroup. The litholog ical succession of the mine area comprises, from bottom to
top, lower mafic metavolcanics intercalated with ca rbonaceous metasediments, the gold-
~I

bearing Cuiaba-Banded Iro n Formation (BIF), upper mafic metavolcanics and metavolcano-
clastics and metasediments. The metamorphism reached the greenschist facies.

.
( Tectonic structures of the deposit area are genetica lly related to three deformation phases (D1 ,
0 2, 0 3) which took place under crustal compression represe nting one prog ressive
deformational event (En). This event, which occurred after the Minas Supe rgroup deposition, is
. ,,
I
responsible for the formation and development of folds, axial plane surfaces , mylonitic
I
foliations, lineations, faults, shea r zones and shea r fractures. The 0 1 phase is responsible for
the formation of the dominant structure of the deposit, a large-scale, closed, so uth-east

(. 1
i
.j
(30°-40°) plu nging tubular-sheath fold with a pervasive axial planar (S1 =135 / 45), locally
( mylonitic f oliation and a prominent stretching (mine ral elongation) lineation (Lm1 =11 6 / 34).
\.
The dominant components of the unmineralized BIF are alternating millimeter-to-meter sca le
\
quartz-carbo nate layers and chert layers. The distribution patterns of major and trace eleme nts
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of the Cuiaba-BIF are analogou s to other Archaea n iron-formations.
I
The bulk of th e economic-g rade gold mineralization is re lated to six main ore shoots (rang ing
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in thickness between 1 and 6 m) which are contained within th e Cuiaba-BIF horizon. The BIF-
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hosted gold orebodies (> 4 ppm A u) represent sulfide-rich seg ments of the Cuiaba-BIF which
\
grade laterally into non-economic min eralized or barren iron-formation. The ore ranges from
l.
\ dark to light co lors and is, in places, marked by definite ba nding or by a massive appea rence.
l Transitions fro m sulfide-rich to sulf ide-poo r BIF is indicated by decreasing sulfid e abundances
\ from 30-70 vol. % to less than 1 va l.%, and decrea sing gold grades from over 60 ppm to values
'-- below the fire assay detection limit in su lfide-poor po rtions. Subordinate min eralization occurs
l
related to disseminated sulfides and/or quartz veins in shear zones within metavolca nics and
l
metasediments.
l..__,

L.·
l
t...
l
\
t
(
XIX
(

(
\•·
RESUMO
r-
A mina de ouro de Cuiaba loca liza-se na porc;ao nordeste do Quadrilatero Ferrifero, estado de
Mtnas Gerais. Brasil. A regiao representa um terrene tipo "granite-g reenstone", composto por
um complexo do embasamento (ca . 3.2 Ga) e pela sequencia tipo greenstone belt do
supergrupo Rio das Velhas (3.0-2.7 Ga}, sobreposto pelas sequencias supracrustais
proterozoicas dos Supergrupos Minas(< 2.6-2.1 Ga) e Espinhac;o (1.7 Ga).

( A area de estudos pertence ao Grupo Nova Lima, unidade inferior do Supergrupo Rio das
Velhas. A sequencia litologica do deposito compreende, da base para o tope, metavulcanicas
maticas inferiores intercaladas com metassedimentos carbonosos, a Formac;ao Ferrifera
Bandada (FFB) Cuiaba, hospedeira da mineralizac;ao, metavulcanicas maficas superiores,
metavulcanoclasticas e metassedimentos. 0 metamorfismo alcanc;ou a facies xisto verde .

As estruturas tect6nicas da area do deposito sao geneticamente relacionadas a tres fases de

deformac;ao , desenvolvidas sob regime de compressao crustal , representando um unico
evento deformacional progressive (En). Este evento, que ocorreu depois da deposic;ao do
Supergrupo Minas, e responsavel pela gerac;ao de dobras, superficies de plano axial,
folia<;oes miloniticas, linea<;oes, falhas, zonas e fraturas de cisalhamento. A fase 0 1 e
responsavel pela gerac;ao da estrutura dominante do deposito, um ample e fechado antiforme
(dobra em bainha tubular}, mergulhando para sudeste (22-40°}, com uma penetrativa folia<;ao
plano axial (8,=135 I 45). Esta foliac;ao progride localmente para uma folia<;ao milonitica e

\ l contem uma proeminente linea<;ao mineral, por vezes com carater de estiramento
(Lm, =116 I 34).

Os componentes dominantes da BIF nao mineralizada sao camadas quartzo-carbonaticas e

( )

de chert alternantes que variam de escala milimetrica a metrica. Os padroes de distribuic;:ao de

elementos maiores e trac;:os da FFB Cuiaba sao semelhantes a outras formac;oes ferriferas
arqueanas.

A maior parte da mineralizac;:ao de ouro esta relacionada a 6 corpos de minerio principais,

variando entre 1 e 6 m de espessura, contidos dentro do horizonte de BIF. Os corpos
. l
mineralizado s consistem de porr;:oes ricas em sulfetos da FFB Cuiaba (> 4 ppm Au), possuem
cores variando das tonalidades clare a escuro e apresentam localmente uma aparencia
massiva, sem bandamento ou feic;:oes de recristalizac;:ao. Transic;:oes entre FFB mineralizadas
e nao mineralizadas envolvem uma diminuic;:ao da composic;:ao modal de sulfetos de 30-70
vol.% para 1 vol.% e descrescimo dos teo res de ouro de 60 ppm para valores inferiores ao
limite de detec<;ao . Mineralizac;:ao subordinada ocorre associada com sulfetos disseminados
elou veios de quartzo em zonas de cisalhamento dentro de metavulcanicas e
 INTRODUCTIO N Page 1
Chapter 1

1 INTRODUCT ION

1.1 Location and mining history of the Cu iaba Mine

The cuiaba Gold Mine is situ ated some 40 km to the east of B~lo Horizonte, the capital of the

Minas Gerais State, in th e central east reg ion of Bra zil and about 450 km north of Rio de
Janeiro (F ig. 1-1) .

....
···..

CU IA BA MINE

Belo Ho::~;;~P'''i":
1- - I / \ I
- --..7-~ r···... :
,./ : \ ··o Ouro Preto
;" --.:- - -_ I

......... \
Juiz de ::~.p
N
0 Town
0 Port
Motorway
Limit of State
Limits of the
Quadrilatero Ferrifero

0 100 200 km

Fig. 1-1 Location map of the Cuiaba Gold Mine.

Abb. 1-1 Lage der Goldlagerstatte Cuiaba.

The earliest evid ence of mining activity in th e Cuiaba Mine area dates back to 1740, when
Portuguese prospectors mined the superficial deposits. Between 1877, when it was acq uired
by th e English St. John Del Rey Mining Co., and 1940, the mine was intermittently operating.
( , In 1977, the Morro Velho Minera <;ao S. A. (Anglo American Co.-Bozano, Simonsen Bank joint-
venture) took control, re-evaluated the deposit and the production started in 1985 in an
underground operation. During a pe riod of two years (1987 -1 988) half a millio n short tonnes of
oxidized ore with estimated 5 g/t Au were exploited by open-cut mining.

At present the Cui aba Min e is th e major gold producer in th e Quadrilatero Ferrifero and one of
the largest mines in Brazil. The deposit produces 54 0 000 t of ore per year with an average
grade of 8 g/t Au and silver as by-product. The cut-off grade is 4.0 g/t gold and proven gold
reserves exceed 180 t of gold (Table 1-1).

(
'
 INTRODUCTION Page 3
Chapter 1

(4} understanding of the lo ca l and regional co ntrols of mineralization;

(5} determination of fluid characteristics and mechanisms of gold tran spo rt and
deposition;

(6 } establishment of a genetic model for the gold minera lization within a regional
context and exploration guidelines for th e Quadrilatero Ferrifero region .

1.3 Methods of investigation

This research is based on 6 months fieldwork which consisted mainly of underground mapping
at the Cuiaba Mine. Mineralogical and petrographical studies as well as the application of
analytical techniques such as x-ray diffraction (XRD), electron microprobe analysis (EPMA),
lead-fire assay analysis, x-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF), instrumental neutron
activation analysis (INAA), carbon-sulfur analysis and stable isotopes were also performed.
The complete data set and description of the analytical methods are given in Appendices

l
I toV.
( During the course of this study three f ield campaigns were carried out at the Cuiaba Mine

r
·I region. The first one was a one-week field work in March 1992 to define the aims and scope of
\.
the research . The second and third field campaigns, undertaken from November 1993 to
March 1994 and May to July 1995, respectively, comprised underground structural mapping,
(
mapping of selected geological profiles in the mine region as well as description and sampling

( of outcrops and diamond drill cores.

( Underground structural mapping was based on existing 1:100 geological/sampling maps of the
(
mine, provided by the Morro Velho Minera9ao S.A. staff. Sampling and structural mapping
(
were , in places, hampered by the accessibility and safety of underground mining areas. The
(
geological profiles were based on 1 :25000 geological/topographical maps and 1:10 000 aerial
(
photographs of the Brazilian Geological Survey (CPRM-Companhia de Pesquisa e Recursos
l
Minerais) and were conducted in conjunction with the survey geologists who mapped the area .
l
( A total of 240 samples of ore and host rocks were collected from almost all orebodies at No. 3,

C..· 4, 5, 6, 7 and 11 levels. After detailed description of all samples, 130 samples were sent to the
( Institute of Mineralogy and Economic Geo logy (IML), RWTH Aachen, Germany, for detailed
( mineralogical, petrographic and analytical studies.
l For comparison, samples from other BIF-hosted gold deposits were also collected . This
(
includes material from Sao Bento and Lamego mines in the Quadrilatero Ferrifero, Agnes Mine
(
(Princeton Section) in the Barberton greenstone belt, South Africa , and Bromstock and
l
( Sherwood Starr in the Kwekwe District. Zimbabwe . The list of the studied samples is presented

l in Appendix I.
l
L
c..
( \

(
RtG IONAL GEOLOGICAL SETTING Page 5
I( Chapter 2
(

(
REG IONAL GEOLOGICAL SETTIN G
'( 2
t
2.1 Geotectonic framew o rk
( I
The Brazi lian platform is constituted of Precambrian Terranes (G uiana , Central Brazil and
(
Atlantic shield) which are covered by the Phanerozo ic rocks of the Amazonas, Parnaiba and
(
Para na basins (Fig. 2-1).

(
( 54"

(
(
(
(
(
(
(
(
4"
(
(
(
(
(

(
( PK4-~0lO!OC
CJ COY ER
( l"'iL"t Gil( U<S TOtE:
~ IIO..IS
( r7"7l PRI:C.....,Ilfii A.~
~ I(JlRm(S
Q.lfLNE OF S
( ,..., 1"'1 FfWII:ISIC,O eRA·
, ~.
500 m 24"
( 0 Figu re 2.2
0

(
c Fig. 2-1 Simplified geotectonic map of central-east Brazil with location of the Quadrilatero
(
Ferrifero area (in Reinhardt & Davidson 1990, modified).
Abb. 2-1 Vereinfachte geotektoni sche Karte von Zentralost-Brasilien mit der Lage des
c Quadrilatero Ferrifero (Reinhardt & Davidson 1990, modifiziert).
(
(_
l The Preca mbrian T erra nes are composed of cratonic nuclei (Archaean granite-g neiss
(1 basements overlain by A rchaea n or Proterozoic sedimentary and/or volcanic supracrustal
c seq uences) which w ere reworked durin g subseq uent tectonic events and are bounded by
c Proterozoic orogenic belts (e.g., Marshak & Alkmim 1989). The Q uadrilatero Ferrifero (Fig.
(_
2-2 ) is situated in th e southern portion of one of these P recambrian cratonic nuclei units, the
c.
so-called Sao Francisco craton (A lme id a 1977, lnda et al. 1984, Teixeira & Figueiredo 1984).
(
\.
(
 (
(
(
,'
REGIONAL GEOLOGICAL SETIING Page 7
) cnapter 2
( --
~('
1932 . 1934. Barbosa , A. 1961, Barbosa, 0.1949,1954, 1961). The first systematical

~'
geological mapping was conducted by the Departamento Nacional da Produ((ao Mineral

~ (DNPM) in cooperation with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) during 1946-1961. In
(
, I
thiS period the entire Quadrii<Hero Ferrifero (ca. 7000 km 2 ) was mapped at a scale 1 :25 000. A
(
synthesis of previous works is reported in publications by Dorr (1969) and Herz (1970, 1978).
( '
,-
Other integrated geological/structural mapping works include: (1) the cooperation between the
~
~ Federal University of Ouro Preto (UFOP) with the Clausthal University of Technology,

) Germany (e.g ., Gloeckner 1981, Guerra 1979, Hackspacker 1980, Cordani et al. 1980a, Hoefs
) et al. 1982, Muller et al. 1982, Evangelista 1984, Jordt-Evangelista 1984, Guba 1982, Gomes
(
(
, 1985. Souza 1987, Souza-Games 1985, Rosiere 1985, Alkmim 1985, Chemale Jr. 1987,

~
Souza 1987) at 1:2000 to 1:25000 scales; and (2) the Rio das Velhas Project (1992-1995),
which was carried out by the DNPM/CPRM-SUREG-BH, integrating geological, geophysical
r
and geochemical data of the Rio das Velhas Supergroup greenstone belt sequence (Silva et
)
al. 1993, Baltazar et al. 1995, Correia-Neto & Baltazar 1995, Correia-Neto et al. 1994, DNPM-

CPRM 1995, 1996).

Important specific aspects of the Quadrilatero Ferrifero lithological sequence and modifications
of Dorr's (1969) stratigraphy are presented in individual works of Almeida (1976), Schorscher

~ (1978, 1980), Drake & Morgan (1980), Ladeira (1980b, 1981a), Ladeira & Roeser (1983),
Schorscher et al. (1982), Oliveira et al. (1 983) , Sichel (1983a), Sichel & Valen9a (1983b),
Oliveira (1984) , Padilha (1984), Vieira (1991b), Vieira et al. (1991a), Crocco-Rodrigues (1991),

1
)'
Crocco-Rodrigues et al. (1989, 1992), Carneiro (1991, 1994), Costa et al. (1992}, Ribeiro-
Rodrigues (1992), Renger (1994 ), Chemale Jr. et al. (1996). Significant geochronological
regional works includ e Cordani et al. (1980a, 1980b), Teixeira (1985), Teixeira & Figueiredo
~·
(1994), Babinski et al. (1988, 1995), Machado et al. (1989,1992), Machado & Carneiro (1992a,
~
~
1992b), Carneiro (1994), Carne iro et al. (1994), Marshak et al. (1994) , Noce et al. (1994) and

~ Noce (1995).

~
~ 2.3 Geology of the Quadrilatero Ferrifero
~
~ 2.3.1 Lithological Units
~
The Quadrilatero Ferrifero represents an Archaean granite-greenstone terrane overlain by
\,
0 Proterozoic supracrustal sequences. Its lithostratigraphy can be subdivided into four main units
( :. ... n (Dorr 1969, Marshak & A!kmim 1989). These include, from bottom to top, the Granite-Gneiss
(_ 'v2., Terranes, the Rio das Velhas Supergroup green stone belt seque nce and the Minas and the
( 3nn
Espinha9o Supergroups (Fig. 2-3 and 2-4). Th e quadrangular shape of the Quadrilatero
C
~ '
·-=-rg
\

,.'
(
l.k
 REG IONAL GEOLOGICAL SETTING Page 9
ChaPter 2

SUPERGROUP GAOOP
i
ow~ ESPINHAfO UNOI\IIOf:O
i GN
IE
UN CO NF.

SABARA

UNCONF.

0
0N PIRACI CABA
0
a:
0"'
....
NINAS
t
ITA!IIIlA
.:

~
CAliA~

UNCONF.
MIIOOINE
I
(

"'if
RIO OAS
z
"'
w
X
VELKAS LIMA
.....
lUll) TO
(\ u
a: IOCl~~':'""'
(
"' UNCONF.

BASEME NT
(
(
(
(
1IT~ el ~ ~ 9~ 1o j+++l 11 ~

Fig. 2-4 Stratigraphic column of the Quadrilatero Ferrifero (1=metabasic rocks, 2=marble,
3=Lake Superior-type banded iron-formation, 4=metapelitic rocks, 5=quartzite,
6=metaconglomerate, ?=chemical-clastic unit, 8=felsic to mafic unit with Algoma-
(
type banded iron-formation, 9=ultramafic unit, 1O=metagranitic rocks, 11 =granite-
( gneissic basement rocks. Modified after Marshak & Alkmim 1989).
( Abb. 2-4 Stratigraphische Gliederung des Quadrilatero Ferrifero (1 =Metabasite, 2=Marmor,
3=Lake Superior-typ Banded Iron Formation, 4=Metapelite, 5=Quarzite,
6= Metakonglomerate, 7=chemisch-klastische Einheit, 8=felsisch-mafische Einheit
( mit Algoma-type Banded Iron Formation, 9=ultramafi sche Einheit, 10=Metagranit,
11 =Granit-Gneis-Grundgebirge. Modifiziert nach Marshak & Alkmim 1989).
(
(
(
The Rio das Velhas Supergroup (3.0-2 .7 Ga, Machado et al. 1989, 1992) represents a
(
greenstone belt sequence divided into the Nova Lima and Maq uine Groups. The Nova Lima
\
Group comprises (cf. Oliveira et al. 1983, modified by Vieira 1987a, 1991):

l (1) a lower unit, composed of komatiitic to tholeiitic basic metavolcanics with preserved
l primary structures such as spinifex, pillow-lavas and variolites; interlayered with
( cla stic metasediments, acid metavolcanoclastics and exhalative chemical
metasediments (Aigoma -type-BIF and cherts) ; and metaultrabasic intrusives with
 ( '

GOLD MIN ERALIZATION IN THE QUADRILATERO FERRIFERO Page 11

( " ChaPter 3

(
3 AN OVERVIEW OF GOLD MINERALIZATION IN THE
(
QUADRILATERO FERRiFERO
( i+~

( ' 'S

( ) 3.1 Introduction
(
.. J s1nce the colonial period, mining activities and in particular gold mining has contributed
(
enormously to the economic development of Brazil. As a direct consequence, the present-day
( )
dimension of the country has resulted in great part from the prospecting of gold, diamonds and
(
(
precious stones in the seventeenth, eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. This led the

( portuguese colonists from the coast to the interior and was responsible for the origin of the first
\. .• J,
( ' villages and towns outside the coastal regions.
1 .. J
t The Quadrilatero Ferrifero was the most important Brazilian gold district until the late 1970s
( ~·
and Brazil's past gold mining history overlaps with gold mining in this district. This chapter
( >t
( briefly describes the history of gold mining in Brazil, with emphasis on the importance of the

( ouadrilatero Ferrifero region. An oveNiew of the gold mineralization in the region, including
historical mining data and a classification of its gold deposits, is also presented . In addition, a
( :; of more detailed discussion on the nature of the Archaean greenstone-hosted gold deposits is
( vial
given.
( ::-ira
( I

3.2 Past gold mining in Brazil and gold mining in the Quadrilatero
( Ferrifero
(
Over the pa st 300 years total Brazilian gold production amounts to nearly 2600 tonnes (to
( .
December 1995, Fig. 3-1). Occurrences of gold in Brazil were first discovered in the second
( . odJn

( , ne half of the sixteenth century in the Serra do Jaragua, today's Sao Paulo State. However, the

( +to- Brazilian production started only at the end of the seventeenth century with the discovery of
( . ~nd important alluvial and supergene deposits in the region now referred to as Quadrilatero
( Ferrifero.
(
During the period 1700-1850 Brazil was the major gold producer in the world, with a production
( I

_..te- of 858 tonnes, mostly originating from the Quadrilatero Ferrifero. The gold production
(
( vJa, increased until 1754, when it reached its peak and then declined and stabilized by the end of
l :~<WO the eighteenth century, known in the Brazilian and international literature as the "Seculo do
(._ . the Ouro" or ,The Century of Gold" (e.g., Boxer 1969, Souza 1982, Decker 1980, Eakin 1989,
l 'r'lhic
Mackenzie 1991).
l - ,...;ros
With the great discoveries of gold in California and Australia in the mid nineteenth century
(1850), Brazil lost its significance as major world gold produce r. During the period 1850- 1975

\~ ..
(
(
 (
.
(
(
. ' GOLD MINERALIZATION IN THE QUADRILATERO FERRIFERO Page 13
cnapter 3

(
1,..
r
Table 3-1 Largest Brazilian gold operations in 1995.
r '• Tabelle 3-1 Die groBten brasilianische Goldminen 1995.
-
( 1

( Mine Location Size• Production (t)

(Mineral province, State) (tAu) - - - - - - -
(
1994 1995
(
(

(_ lgarape Bahia Carajas. Para >50 7.2 10.4

Morro do Ouro Paracatu. Minas Gerais > 350 5.3 5.2
( Fazenda Brasileiro Rio ltapicuru, Bahia > 140 4.8 4.9
Cuiaba Quadrilatero Ferrifero, Minas Gerais > 90 4.2 4.3

I, Sao Bento Quadrilatero Ferrifero, Minas Gerais > 80 3.4 3.5

( Crixas Crixas, Goias >50 3.0 3.0

(
( Data: Minerayao Mooo Velho S. A .. Minerayao Sao Beflto S.A. Minerayao Wooo do Ouro S. A . CVRD

* Past production and reserves

( /

c.
,
\. I

( "
Table 3-2 World's major gold producing countries.
Tabelle 3-2 Die groQ.ten Goldproduzenten-Uinder der Welt.

.I
Country Gold production (tonnes)
(
( - ~1 1994 1995
( rn
( ) 11
South Africa 583.9 522.4
( ·rj
United States 326.0 329.3
\- 1 Australia 254.9 253.5
I )
Canada 146.4 150.3
(,_..
Russia 158.1 142.1
( - .. ,
China 124.1 136.4
( .. .d
Indonesia 55.3 74.1
( .~ ') .
Brazil 73.4 67.4
t., in Uzbekistan 64.4 63.6
" ,Q5 Papua New Guinea 60.5 54.8
l ··s
<, d Source: .Gold 1996". Gold Fields Mineral Services.
(

l/
(,.)
.:.
"'-
l
(
,--.... ,.... r\. r \,
r r
.......
r- ,.- r r- ,-,
'
,......
... (' ,.,.... .r ,. . . . ,........ """"' r-, r-,
- " -. ~ ,.., .......
' .~ ~. - """"'· ....----.. ---- r--., """' '..~ ~ .-.... 1' . ' J ~ - ,
0 (! 1.. -:.. '- '· '
)
"'

()
Table 3-3 ::r
Classification of deposit types for gold mineralization based on th e age and nature of the host rocks in the Quadrilatero F erri fero Q)
"0
Tabelle 3-3 Kfassifizierung der Gofdfagerstatten im Quadrilatero Ferrifero nach Alter und Typ der Nebengesteine. (j)
....
w
(" l
DEPOSIT TYPE Host r ock Important Age of Occurrence of Size Grade Au
Deposits mineralization gold (tAu) (g/t Au) Production G)
Structural style
Ga t 0
r
CENOZOIC-HOSTED 0
Supergene Laterites Ouro Prcto
FazcndM
? Free gold in lat.:rit ic
rocks
s:
z
m
~
Gr:J\'cl Ouro Prcto ? Free gold in placers and > 400 ? 400
Alluvional
S:tbar:i palco placeors
Bento Rodrigues
r
S;!
PROTEROZOIC SEDIMENT-HOSTED -I
Shear zone BIF Gongo S(i<:o < 2.~ Free gold in discrete > 30 20-80 22 0
Maquinc (up to 20 em J shear z
Cauc :wncs z
Concci<;:Jo -I
Passagem de Mariana < 2.-1 Gold in sulfides > 70 6- 1-l 70 I
Shear zone (quartz veins) Metased iments
Santana
m
0
Paleoplacer (Witwatersrand-type) Metaconglomerate Gandarela ? Free gold 0.2 ? 0.2 c)>
0
:::0
ARCHAEAN GREENSTONE-HOSTED
Stratabound I Replacement-dominated Lapa Seca ( 131 F ? ) Morro Velho
Bicallm
Cuiab3, S~o Bento >2.-l
Gold in s ulfides

Gold in sulfides
> -170

> 300
S-20

8-15
-l55

90
&
m
BIF and Chen :::0
R:lposos. Faria,
Lamego. Esperan~a Ill
Tingu:i. Morro da Gloria.
,m0
Ductile shear zones (disseminated) Mcbsediments Corrego do Sitio ? Gold in su lfides >5 2-3 3 :::0
Fdsic volcanics Morro Velho. Bicalho
Bela Fama, Pacicncia
> 2.7 Gold in sulfides >I 10-13 ,m:::0
Malic volcanics Juca Vieira. Pari ? Gold in sullidcs >5 8- 10 3 :::0
Cuiab:i. Tingu:i
0

Malic volcanics Cuiaba (Viana orcbody) ? Gold in sullidcs, free >I -l

Ductile shear zone (quartz veins) "'U
gold
Juca V icir.1 ru
co
(!)
Data: Minerac;ao Morro Velho S. A.. Minerac;ao Sao Bento S. A.. DNPM.
(*)to 1996 ~

CJ1
 GOLD MINERALIZATION IN THE QUADRILATERO FERRIFERO Page 17
Chapter 3

currently in operation near the town of Ouro Preto (Fig. 3-3), generally on a small-scale
(ganmpos). This city received its name (Ouro Preto = black gold) because the occurrence of
black coloured placer palladiumgold (porpezite) in the rivers of its environs. The unusual dark
colour of the gold nuggets, which contain up to 6 wt.% Pd and 2 wt.% Cu, is due to a thin
coating of Fe 203, with minor AbOJ and Cr203 (Carvalho-Silva et al. 1985, Roeser et al. 1991 ).

Table 3-4 Statistical data for gold deposits in the Quadrilatero Ferrifero.
Tabelle 3-4 Statistische Daten fUr Goldlagerstatten im Quadrilatero Ferrifero.

AGE ARCHAEAN PROTEROZOIC CENOZOIC

PRODUCTION

Production (I Au)(1996) 545 80 400

No. of deposits > 10 t Au 5 4 ?

No. of deposits > 300 kg Au 46 23 ?

No. of active deposits (1996 9 4 2

Largest deposits
Morro Velho {>500 t) Passagem de Ouro Preto {> 200 t)
Cuiaba {> 90 t) Mariana (> 60 t) Bento Rodrigues (?)
sao Bento (> 80 t) Caue ( >10 t)
Raposos (> 40 t) Conceit;ao {> 10 t)
Brumal (> 30 t) Gongo Soco (>10 t)
Maquine (> 6 t)

RESERVES

Total reserves (Mt, 1996) 30 ? ?

Grade (g/t) 8-11 6-80 ?

Data: Minerayao Morro Velho S. A., Minerat;ao Sao Bento S. A., DNPM.

3.4 Archaean greenstone-hosted gold mineralization

Greenstone-hosted gold deposits represent a definite group of gold mineralization which is
characterized by several common features (Table 3-5). The deposits show distinct types and
styles of mineralization as well as particular controls on mineralization and wallrock alteration
patterns at greenschist-to-low-amphibolite grades. The oreshoots are ,gold-only" type and
associated with volcano-sedimentary successions of the Nova Lima Group. Table 3-6 gives a
summary of data for the satisfactorily-documented greenstone-hosted lode deposits, including
the main references of studied deposits.
( GOLD MINERALIZATION IN THE QUADRILATERO FERf3iFERO Page 19
Chapter 3

\
(
Table 3-5 Characterization of greenstone-hosted gold deposits in the Quadrilatero Ferrifero .
( Tabelle 3-5 Charakterisierung der an Grunsteine gebundenen Goldlagerstatten im Quadrilatero
Ferrifero.

(
Iron Quadrangle- Greenstone-hosted Gold Deposits

(
Types of gold mineralization BIF-hosted (sulfide layers},
( +=' subordinate mafic- and sediment-hosted.
N
( ,- Replacement-dominated, shear-zone related .
Styles of gold mineralization
\ . 0
86 kg gold per km 2 of greenstone.
( ....
- Prospectivity
Size and grade Small to medium sized deposits (0.1- 10 tAu).
(
·~ Greenschist-to-mid-amphibolite facies.
( Metamorphism
•vI
( Strike= 10 to 300m, width= 0.5 to 20m
Size of the ore shoots
( ·. cJ.., down-plunge= 800 to >3000 m .
( I -:;-
Sulphide mineralogy Pyrite', pyrrhotite' , arsenopyrite•
; ,V (chalcopyrite•, sphalerite, galena).
: ~

• with inclusions of gold (up to 120 11m).

Controls of the mineralization

Lithological control
• Deposits are associated mainly with Fe-rich
lithologies, such as carbonate -facies iron-
formations and mafic volcanics.
Mineralogical control
o Gold is associated with sulfides, occurring as
inclusions, in fractures or along grain boundaries.
Structural control
• Remarkable down-plunge continuity of the
ore bodies parallel to the stretching lineation.
Mineralization is hosted in shear zones.

Wallrock alteration
Banded iron-formations
o Sulfidation and silicification
(Sulfide layers are the result of sulfidation involving
replacement of Fe-carbonate).
Mafic volcanics
• Sericitization, carbonatization, chloritization and
sulfidation.
Metasediments
• Carbonatization, sericitization and sulfidation.

Ore Geochemisty
Ore metal association
• Deposits are .gold-only", Au (Ag, As, Cu, Zn, Pb) .
Ore element ratios
• Au:Ag = 1:6 (average).
• Low base metal contents(< 0.2 wt.%).
o unmineralized BIF: Au (40-300 ppb}, Ag (10-140 ppb).
o Mineralized BIF: Au (1-110 ppm), Ag (0.5-16 ppm).

Currently producing deposits Morro Velho, Cuiaba, Sao Bento, Espirito Santo,
Raposos, Morro da Gl6ria, Brumal.
G ,_,<?
(\,/ -.1':
. .D
f .~.D Data: Minerayao Morro Velho S.A., Tolbert (1965), Torres (1975), Ladeira (1980, 1988), Oliveira & Vieira
\_.,· L. <(
(1988), Souza-Filho (1991), Abreu (1995}, Godoy (1995), Pereira (1996) .
( '
(.

'
(
r

GOLD MINERALI ZAT ION IN T HE QUADRILATERO FERRIF ERO Page 21

ChaPter 3

(
Table 3-6 Continuation
(
Tabelle 3-6 Fortsetzung

(
(
Host-Rock Deposit Style Minera lization Size (t) Grad e References
Deposit '
Distri c t (g/t)

ITABIRITO
35. Bahu Felsic m etavolcanics shear zone Gold in sulfides ? ? (52)
36· Marzag~ Felsic metavolcanics shear zone Gold in sulfides ? ? (52)
37 . Paciencra Felsic metavolcanics Shear zone-quartz veins Gold in sulfides ? ? (52)
33· Tapera Felsic metavolcanics Shear zone Gold in sulfides ? ? (51)

OURO PRETO
50 . Bento Rodrigues Metavolcanics? ? Gold in sulfides ? ? (51)
( 68 . Brco de Pedra Felsic intrusives Syngenetic magmatic Gold in sulfides ? ? ( 18)(25)

SANTA BARBARA
56 · Quebra Osso Ultramafic Shear zone Gold in sulfides ? ? (16)
metavolcanics
57 · Brumadinho Ultramafic Shear zone Gold in sulfides ? ? (51)
(
metavolcanics
58. Brumal BIF Stratabound/ replacement Gold in sulfides > 30 3 (23) (53)
59- S~Bento BIF Stratabound/ replacement Go!d in sulfides > 80 8 (2) (21) (24)
(26) (27)
( ' 60 - Santa Quiteria BIF Stratabound/ replacement Gold in sulfides >1 10 (26)
63 - Pary BIF, metavolcanics Shear zone/replacement Go!d in sulfides > 30 8 (1)
70- C6rrego do Sitio Metasediments, felsic shear zone Gold in sulfides >5 2-3 (33) (55)
tuffs

PIEDADE DO PARAOP EBA

(. 67 - Carrapato Metavolcanics Shear zone Go!d in sulfides ? ? (51)
(
l '") {') List of deposits frcm Ladeira (1991), modified. Deposrt numbers as sho,o,oed at the figure 3-3. All deposits are located in the Nova
Lima Group.
l.. BIF = Banded iron-foonations
l.apa seca = a siliceous-carbonatic rock ( 5-35% Si02, 65-95% carbonate): carbonate-facies banded iron-foonation (cf. Ladeira 1991 ).
altered metavolcanics (cf. Vial et al. 1987, Vieira 1991b), mixing or chemical. volcanic and clastic altered rocks (cf. Silva et al. 1993).
(_ References:

~ (1) Abreu (1995) (19) Moraes (1935) (38) Vial (1983)

(2) Abreu et al. (1988) (20) Moresch (1972) (39) Vial (1 988a)
~ (3) Ribeiro (1987) (2 1) Moseley (1986) (40) Vial et al. (1 987)
(4) Camargo ( 1957) (22) Oliveira (1984) (41) Vieira (1987a)
(_ (5) Carrno, in prep. (23) Padilha (1992) (42) Vieira (1 987b)
(6) Felix (1983) (24) Pereira (1992) (43) Vieira (1992)
~
__ ) (7) Felix (1988a) (25) Perobelli (1996) (44) Vieira & Oliveira (1988)
(8) Felix (1988b) (26) Prado et al. (1991) (45) Vieira et al. (1991a)
!_,_
(9) Felix (1989) (27) Pereira ( 1996) (46) Vieira et al. (1991b)
\.. (10) Gonyalves (1992) (28) Ribeiro-Rodrigues et al. (1996a) (47) Silva & Zuccetti (1993)
(11) Godoy (1 994) (29) Ribeiro-Rodrigues et al. (1 996b) (48) Gonyalves (1992)
\ (12) Ladeira (1 980a) (30) Sales, in prep. (49) Raggi (1 985)
(13) Ladeira (1 988) (31) Souza-Filho (1 991) (50) Frizzo (1990)
( (14) Ladeira (1991) (32) Souza Filho & Schrank ( 1991) (51) DNPM, CPRM (1995)
(15) Ladeira et al.(1991) (33) Takai et al (1991) (52) Miner~ Morro Velho s. A .
l (16) Luccesi (1991) (34) Tolbert (1964) (53) Belo de Oliveira (1986b)
(17) Pereira ( 1996) (35) Torres (1975) (54) Junqueira, in prep.
l· (18) Matos (1991) (36) Vial (1980a) (55) N akamura et al. (1990)
l. (37) Vial (1 980b) (56) Vieira et al. (1991c)

( .
\
t
(
 GOLD MINERALIZATION IN THE QUAORilATERO FERRiFERO Page 23

hi- respectively (Fig . 3-4b). In contrast to other Archaean areas, there is to date no known
~
~- ·zation hosted by granitic ro cks , porphyries and mafic intrusives. One gold occurrence
m1nera 11
~ m felsi c intrusives is represe nted by the Bico de Pedra prospect (Perobelli 1996). The
(~ Importance of strength (competence) contrasts between th e host lithologies and country rocks
(~ controlling the sites of mineralization is eviden ced by th e occurrence of mineralization in shea r
( ..... zones between BIF and metavolcanics/metasediments.
(~
\ ~

(~
("
(~
9 BIF-Lapa Seca (85 %)

( .... 0 BIF(14%)

(~ • Mafic and felsic

volcanics,
( metasediments (1 %)
\ (a)
(

BIF
62%
(

l
\
BIF-lapa Seca
(
4%
Mafic volcanics
<.. Wetasedirrents
volcanics 11%
( (b) 2%
21%
~

"-- Fig. 3-4 Relative importance of the host rocks to greenstone-hosted gold mineralization in
\ the Quadrilatero Ferrifero, in terms of (a) contained gold and (a) number of
( individual deposits.
Abb. 3-4 (a) Prozentualer Anteil der Goldfdrderung bezogen auf die drei wichtigsten
l Gesteinsgruppen. (b) Prozentualer Anzahl der Goldlagerstatten in den fOnf
( Gesteinseinheiten.

l t
I
I.

l '
l
~
3.4.2 Structural controls of the deposits

1 In recent years, numerous works have demonstrated that the distribution of the greenstone-
l I hosted gold deposits and the geometry of the ore shoots are structurally controlled ·and that
l·
( ~ deformation was an important factor for gold concentration (e .g ., Vieira 1991 a, Scarpelli 1991,
l ', So uza-Filho & Schrank 1991, Pereira. S. 1992, 1995, Godoy 1994, Pereira , E. 1996, Ribeiro-
\.
~
(
 (
p

Cllapter 3 GOLD MINERALIZATION IN THE QUADR ILATERO FERRIFERO Page 25

Table 3-8 Classification scheme for structural styles of gold mineralization in the
Quadrilatero Ferrifero.
Tabelle 3-8 Klassifizierung der Goldmineralisation im Quadrilatero Ferrifero nach
verschiedenen Strukturtypen.

Structural style Important deposits

Stratabound, replacement dominated Morro Velho, Cuiaba, Sao Bento. Raposos,

Lamego, Faria, Esperan~ Ill, Tingua.

Shear-zone-hosted , replacem ent-dam ina ted Bicalho, Bela Fama, Paciencia, Juca Vieira,
Pari, (Tingua. Cuiaba).

< Shear-related-quartz veins Bela Fama, Juca Vi eira. Paciencia,

(Morro Velho, Cuiaba. Bicalho) .

Data: Minerayao Morro Velho S. A.. Vieira (1991 ). Ribeiro-Rodrigues et al. (1997).

(
p

\ The stratabound, replacement-dominated style is associated with banded iron formations

~ \ (BIF), e.g., Cuiaba, Morro Velho, Sao Bento, Raposos, Lamego, Faria, Urubu and Esperan9a
!
~ I
! Ill deposits. Microtextural studie s (microfabrics) and textures observed on a mine-scale indicate
'
!

that the mineralized BIF are the result of sulfidation involving pervasive replace ment of Fe-
<.
{ carbon ates (sid erite-ankerite) by Fe-sulfides. Gold deposition is of epigenetic origin and
-
<. occurred simultaneously with sulfide precipitation due to fluid-wallrock sulfidation reactions
(
' (e.g., Tolbert 1964, Vieira 1991 a, Ribeiro-Rodrigues et al. 1997).
\ The shear-zone-hosted, replacement-dominated style is represented by disseminated
~
sulfides occurring in shear zo nes mainly within Fe-rich metavolcanics and metasediments.

1, )
e.g., Bela Fama, Cuiaba (Balancao Footwall and Galinheiro Footwall orebodies), Juca Vieira
(
I
I and lingua deposits, as well in BIF (e .g. , Raposos). Th e shear zones are ductile or ductile-
~. brittle, mostly bedding subparallel with a sigmoidal, anastomosing pattern .
Shear-related quartz vein-type deposits are associated with quartz remobilization within
metavolcanics and metasediments, e.g., Juca Vieira and Cuiaba (Viana and Galinheiro
(.J
Quartzo orebodies) deposits. The orebodies are composed of several interconnected quartz
(
' .
·o- veins with disseminated sulfid es (Vieira 1991 a). Vein-type and shear-zone-hosted deposits are
~
end-members of a continuous series but each has characteristic min eralogical, chemica l and
\
~ structural features which justify the distinction . Both have locally ,stratabound characteristics",
~ confined to a host lithology (e.g. Cuiaba Mine, in the mafic metavolcanics) .
.( I

Commonly, one structural style dominates. However, different styles of mineralization may be
(_ '
present in one single gold deposit.

\
 Chapter 3
GOLD MINERALIZATION IN THE QUADRILATERO FERRiFERO Page 27

(
Interpreted to be synchronous with or slightly post-dating the main stage of quartz-vein-type
gold mineralization (e.g ., Souza-Filho & Schrank 1991 , Alves 1995, Godoy 1994). Fluid
(
1nclusion data show predominantly H20 -C02-rich fluids, with CH.1, HS, N2, H 2S and salt
3
(Table 3-9) . Fluid density is in the range 0 .6 to 0 .9 g/cm and temperature ranges from 180 to
350°C at pressures of 2-3 kbar. Significant methane is present in fluids where they interacted
with carbonaceous sedimentary rock (Alves 1995). These values are comparable with data
from the Archaean greenstone-hosted lode gold deposits (Colvine et al. 1988, Groves & Foster

1991 ).
(

(
Table 3-9 Nature of fluids, transport and deposition of gold in the Quadrilatero Ferrifero .
Tabelle 3-9 Charakteristika der Fluide, Transport und Ablagerung des Goldes im Quadrilatero
~ Ferrifero.
(
l Iron Quadrangle- Greenstone-hosted Gold Deposits

Nature of fluids and environment of deposition

Fluid Inclusions Data

P-T conditions 3-3.5 kbar, 180-350 °C
Salinity (NaCI equiv.) 3-5 wt.%
3
Density (g/cm ) 0.8-0.9
Components H20 , C02, CH4, HS-, N2 , H2S, salt

Thermodynamic Data
Calculated T < 300-450 °C (arsenopyrite)

Source parameters
Carbon isotope data
Oxygen isotope data
13
o16Ce<~roona1e= -4 to -6 %o o13Corga0lc= -16 to -20 %o
o340quartz= +17 %o 0 0e<~rb0na1e= -15 %o
16

Sulphur isotope data o Spyn1e= +1 .7 to +5.4 %o

Transport and deposition of gold

Transport
• Close association of gold mineralization and sulfides suggests that
reduced sulfur complexes were the predominant transport mechanisrr

Deposition Fluid-wallrock sulfidation reactions:

• Au(HS)2. +H.+ FeC03 = FeS2+ Au+ H2C03+ 1/2 H2
• 3 Au(HS)2' + H• + 2 FeJ0 4 = 6FeS + 3 Au+ 3 H20 + 5/2 0 2 + 1/2 H2

Data: Minerayao Morro Velho S. A ., Tolbert (1965), Torres (1975) , Ladeira (1980, 1988), Oliveira & Vieira (1988).
Souza-Filho (1991 ), Abreu (1995), Godoy (1995) . Pereira (1996).

t )

l '
l.
l mz
l I

( I

(
 C h apter 3 'GOLD MINERALIZATION IN THE QUADRilATERO FERRIFERO Page 29

•
(
~ Table 3-10 Available lead isotope compositions o f su lfides from greenstone- hosted gold d e pos its of
( the Q u a drilate ro Ferrifero (after T horpe et al. 1984).
~
T abell e3-10 Blei- lsotopie der an GrOnsteine gebundenen Goldlagerstatten des Quadrilatero Ferrifero
(nach Thorpe e t al. 1984).
(

•
I Doposit sample Description
200
Pbr~Pb 20 7
Pbr~Pb 201
P bf'~ Pb ll Th/U Model Interpretation
• Typo (mineral) Age
( (Ma)
• M1ne

BIF-hosted
Cu1aoa TQ8 ~57 Veins cross-cutting the BIF 13.854 14.660 33.483 8.516 3.898 2409 M1xed age?
(galena)

TQ82-57a1'1 13.856 14.669 33.495 8.564 3.912 24 18 Mixed age?

(galena)

Esperanc;;a Ill T083-39 Veins cross-cutting the BIF 13.626 14.598 33.301 8.637 3.951 255 1 M1xed age?
(galena)

Fana TQ8~38 Veins cross-cutting the BIF 14.112 14.867 33.809 9.202 4.014 2425 Mixed age?
(galena)

sao Bento ? 2650 Primary age ?

(arsenopyrite)

Lapa Seca-hosted (BIF ?)

B1calho TQ82-146 Quartz veins cross-cutting 13.729 14.694 33.432 9.000 3.916 2569 Mixed age?
T082- 146a1' 1 the Lapa Se<:a 13.726 14.695 33.44 1 9.015 4.021 2574 Mixed age?
TQ82-147 (Remobilized or 13.901 14.763 33.543 9.228 3.852 2493 Mixed age?
( c; recrystallized "in situ")

.s Felsic volcanic - hosted

Bela Fama TQ82-146 Quartz veins cross-cutting 13.527 14.648 23.263 9.258 3.955 27 10 Primary age
TQ63-37 the Lapa Se<:a 14.731 14.907 34.275 8.515 3.826 1935 Remobilizalion
(Remobilized or (Transamazomc
recrystallized "in situ") event)

•• ...J
(')Duplicate analysis

by the correlation of the 1935 Ma model age of most radiogenic Bela Fama analysis with the
3 age of the Proterozoic sediment-hosted Caue deposit. In this epigenetic, syntectonic shear
~S
zone-related deposit a mineral isochron for Pb-Pb isotopes yields an age of 1830 Ma which is
..,e interpreted to be the age of the introduction and deposition of gold (Olivo et al. 1996).
:lnl
The most radiogenic Bela Fama analysis (age of 1935 Ma) might also be related to the less
'85
radiogenic value (age of 2710 Ma) (Thorpe et al. 1984). Thus, this data may be valid as a
secondary isochron either indicating (1) derivation of isotopically heterogeneous lead from the
( '
'al. host rocks or (2) mixing of lead from the host felsic volcanics and from the mineralizing fluid .
·(4- Assuming a two-stage calculation with a source age of 2710 Ma, the age is 595 Ma.
\ 'r in suggesting a mineralization or remobilization during the Brasiliano orogeny (750-450 Ma)
-·Jid (Thorpe et al. 1984).
oic
l In the absence of reliable geochronological data, it is not possible to confidently relate the
greenstone-hosted gold mineralization to a particular tectonic orogeny which affected the
ted Quadrilatero Ferrifero area.

'
 Chapter 3 GOLD MINERALIZATIO N IN THE QUADRILATERO FERRIFERO Page 31

Proterozoic (Vieira 1991 a, 1992); and (3) an epigenetic, shear-related, syntectonic, single-
event Proterozoic gold mineralization (Sca rpelli 1991 ).

3.4.12 Productivity and gold prospection

The productivity or intensity of gold mineralization of a greenstone belt can be expressed as
the sum of production, prove n and probable reserves divided by the greenstone area (kg
Au/km 2 of greenstone). Although more suitable for comparison between greenstone belts of a
large cratonic areas which have relatively uniform exposures and prospecting conditions, the
productivity has been used to compare gree nstone belts of different craton s (Foster 1985,
Groves et al. 1987a, Groves & Foster 1991).

Table 3- 11 shows data of the Rio das Velhas gree nstone belt compared with other cratons
world-wide which contain significant BIF-hosted gold mineralization.

Table 3-11 Comparison of t he Rio das Velhas greenstone belt with other Archaean BIF-hosted-
bearing greenstone belts worldwide.

Ii

\
Tabelle 3-11

CRATON
Vergleich des Rio das Velhas GrunsteingOrtels mit anderen Grunsteinen des
Archaikums, die eine a n BIF gebundene Goldmineralisation a ufweisen.

Greenstone Belt (*)

Areal extent
(km 2 )
Age (Ga) Gold (**)
productivitr,
(Kg Au/Km )
No. of BIF-
hosted deposits
(> 1 t)

sAo FRANCISCO (1 ) 820 000 53 13

Rio das Velhas 15 500 3.0-2.7 53 13
(Quadrilatero Ferrifero region) 7 000 118 13

SLAVE (10) 190 000 ? ?

Yellowknife 1000 2.72-2.66 ?

SUPERIOR PROVINCE (35) 1 572 000 ? ?

Abititbi 115 000 2.75-2.67 43 ?

YILGARN (> 40) 10 000 000 25 32

Murchison 120 000 3.0-2.8 18 14
Norseman Wiluna 51 200 2.9-2.7 35 1

( ZIMBABWE (23) 268 000 72 21

~ Harare-Shamva 3854 2.71-2.67 ?

~ is KAPVAAL (10) 1 200 000 ? 2

,
(
Barbeton 6 000 3.49-3.06 50 1
-,d
~ TANZANIAN (8) 500 000 ? 2
\. . 1\y
Sukumaland 20 000 2.81-2.53 1.5 2
(~ )Qr
EASTEN DHAMAR (9) 375 000 ? ?
v(ed Kolar 320 2.7 ?

\ .. nas
Data: Groves et al. (1987), Foster & Gilligan (1990), De Wit & Aswall (1995, 1996).
~dted, (*) Number of Archaea n greenstone belts in the craton.
~" the
<.
(•·) =
Productivity Sum of gold production. proven and probable reserves per unit of area.

(
(

(
 Chapter 4 GEOLOGY AND LITHOGEOCHEMI STRY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 33

(
4 GEOLOGY AN D LITH OGEOC HEMISTRY OF TH E CUIABA MIN E
(
I
AREA
(

(
4.1 Introduction
This chapter introduces the stratigraphy of th e Cuiaba Mine area as w ell as the litho-
geochemical characte ristics of th e different rock types. Only the characteristics of lithologies

( which were less affected by hydrothermal alteration processes are discussed here. Since most
( . of the lithological sequences of the min e are a are not exposed and the outcrops are dee ply
I I weathered, the present study is based mainly on underground mining information and on the
rece nt deep drill campaign (up to 1500 meter depth) which was carried out between August
1995 and March 1996. In order to characterize favourable stratigraphic markers which ca n be
followed during exploration, the primary nature of th e fo otwall and hangingwall metavolcanic

( and meta sedimentary rocks of the Cuiaba-BIF w ere also investigated. Outcrop obse rvation s
I
and petrographic de scriptions combin ed with lith ogeochemical methods using immobile
( elements were used for interpretations.

4.2 Lithostratigraphy
The Cuiaba deposit and most of the gold mines in the Quadrilatero Ferrifero occur in th e
metavolcano-sedimentary sequence of th e Nova Lima Group . The lithostratigraphy of the mine
area was first establi shed by Vial (1 98 0c) based on exploration drill holes and detailed
und erground mapping (scale 1:100) at No. 3 level. Subsequently, brief descriptions of the min e
lithologies w ere prese nted by Vieira & Oliveira (1988), (Vial 1988a), Lade ira (1 988 , 199 1),
Vieira et al. (1 9 91 a, 1991 b) . Fin ally, Vieira (1 992) reinterpreted the formerly recognized
lithotypes during the underground mapping of No. 3 and 4 level.

( The lithological succession in clude metavolcanic, metavolcanoclastic and metasedimentary

(
rocks correlated with the Lower, Middle and Upper Units of the Nova Lima Group as already
proposed by Vieira & Oliveira (1 988) and Vieira (1 992) (Fig . 4-1 and 4-2). In this study, as a
simplification in th e interest of clarity, the prefix meta will not be used frequently. Lithologies
include the lower mafic metav olca nics (man), the upper mafi c metavolcanics (mba), th e Cuiaba
Banded Iron Formation (BIF), the metapelites (X 1), the carbonaceo us metapelites (Fg), the
metavolcanoclastics (Xs) and metabasic dykes (d) . Mapable altered lithologies are re presented
by chloritized upper mafic metavolca nics (manx), sericitized (X2) and ca rbon atized (X2cl) lower
and upper mafic metavolcanics. The protolith s of these metamorpho sed and hydrothe rmally
altered lithologies are subjects of disputes and the different interpretations are summarized in
\
the Table 4-1 (Vial1 983, Vieira et al. 199 1b, V ieira 1992).
l .
~
\
(
 C h apter 4 GEOLOGY A ND LI THOGEOCHEMISTRY OF THE C UIABA MINE A REA Page 35
(

(
(

Rio das Velhas Supergroup

Nova Lima Group
(
Pre-hydrothermal alteration lithologies

(
B Diabasic dykes

(
Quartz-carbonate-chlorite-sericite schist
(petites)
t '-
Q)
a.
( a. Q uartz-sericite-chlorite-carbonate-plag ioclase
:::> schist (volcanoclastics (tuff))
(

\
(_ Carbonaceous sericite-quartz-ca rbonate-chlonte
schist (carbonaceous pelite)
(
( Carbonate-facies banded iron-formation and
( cherts (chemica l exhalative sediments)

( ...... Epidote-actinolite-chlorite-plagioclase-quartz
Fg ·c: schist [mafic volcanics (basalt))
( :::>
X2. X1 Q)
X2cl -o Clinozolsite-actinolite-chlonte-plagioclase
Fg -o quartz schist (mafic volcanic (andesit))
\ 2
(
s
Fg
t Hydrothermal alteration lithologies
( I

Sulfide-rich banded iron-fo rmationfchert

\ (sulfida tion of carbonate-facies BIF)

(
Chlorite-sencite-ca rbonate-quartz sch1st (X2)
C hlorite-carbonate-plagioclase-quartz schist (X2 cl)
l '-
Q) (sericitization (X2) and carbonatization of mafic
t 3 volca nics (mba and man))
0
_j
l Chlorite-p lag iioclase-carbonate-quartz-<:linozoisite
schist (chloritization of mafic volcanics (man))

1..

l
l
\
l Fig. 4-2 Stratigraphical column of the Cuiaba Mine area. (Modified after Vial 1980c and
l Vieira 1992).
( Abb. 4-2 Stratigraphisches Profil der Lagerstatte 8 uiaba (modifiziert nach Vial 1980c und
Vieira 1992).
l
l
'...
!( Chapter 4 GEOLOGY AND LITHOGEOCHEMI STRY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 37
(

(
( The original thickness of the whole sequence (over one kilometer) was estimated from
(
honzontal and vertical drill holes. However, since the area was subject to intense deformation,
(
the thickness of the different lithologies may have been modified due to tectonic thinning or
(
thickening .
(
( The Lower Unit is characterized by an over 400 meter thick succession of mafic
' ( metavolcanics (man) interbeded with metapelites (X 1) and lenses of carbonaceous
(
metapelites (Fg) (Fig. 4-1 and 4-2). Information about these beds is mainly provided by drill
(
holes. The mafic volcanics are c·onformably overlain by the up to 15 meter thick Cuiaba-BIF.
(
overlying the Cuiaba-BIF occurs the Middle Unit, a sequence of alternating carbonaceous
(
metapelites (Fg) and hydrothermally altered mafic metavolcanics (X2) with local intercalations
of metapelites (X 1). The top of the unit is composed of unaltered mafic metavolcanics (mba)
and the estimated thickness is about 150 meters. The over 600 meter thick Upper Unit is
constituted of metapelites (X1) alternating with metavolcanoclastics (Xs). Intrusive rocks (d) are
represented by basic dykes (up to 30 meter in thickness) cross-cutting all lithologies. The
lithological contacts with the Middle Unit are transitional and marked by the appearence of
metavolcanoclastics. Radiometric ages (U-Pb-SHRIMP) of detritic zircons yield a minimum age
of 2.74 Ga for the metavolcanoclastics (Schrank & Machado 1996). The description of the
different lithologies is presented below. Photographs of geological aspects of the Cuiaba
Deposit are presented in plate 4-1 A.
.c;"

( 4.2.1 Mafic volcanics

l &
Lower mafic volcanics (man)
'
(
/
".
The lower mafic volcanics occur in the core of the Cuiaba structure and are known from drill
holes and from gallery exposures at No. 3 level. The light-green , fine-grained massive rocks
are composed of clinozoisite/epidote, plagioclase, amphibole, chlorite and quartz. The texture
is characterized by random relicts of plagioclase replaced by clinozoisite , occurring together
with acicular or prismatic tremolite/actinolite, chlorite and quartz. Vieira (1992) describes the
occurrence of pillows and variolites in the presently inaccessible 3 level. Both pillows and
variolites are deformed, showing lengths varying from 0 .5 to 2.0 meters and 0 .1 to 2
centimeter, respectively . These structures indicate a submarine origin for the lower mafic
\. metavolcanics.
\. -
l c. ;;- Upper mafic metavolcanics (mba)

( ""~
..,. -
j .. The upper mafic volcanics (mba) have a restricted areal distribution, occurring mainly in the
l ~ ~ eastern part of mine area . The dark olive-green , massive and fine-grained lithotypes are locally
l . ~
- =j
~
/ :: foliated (Plate 4-1 B) and pillow structures are recorded near the Viana orebody. The thickness
l_ I - ,.. ,
.
I (
,
(
', ' GEOLOGY AND LITHOGEOCHEMISTRY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 39
Chapter 4
I(
I(
,r.
'(
r
'
(
(

(
(
(

(
(
D
(
(
(
(

(
(
~

(
e
i (
( A

(
i
'
I
I
\
(
·,~"
2
l • ~J"
r t . ...-·. ... . . ......
\. ·~ , .,
on

·- n 500 1-Jm
·:u
.. .
~

\
von
H
\ ul
\.
\. hen
~r.
\
'-- 1er
(
1 der
'--
'--
l
(_
l
~
 (
( Chapter 4 GEOLOGY AND LITHOGEOCH EMISTRY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 41
(
(
chert-rich iron-formations that lack banding or microbanding and that primary banding is
(
( masked by later recrystallization .

( Petrography and carbonate chemistry of the Cuiaba-BIF

(
The mineral assemblage of the quartz-carbonate and chert layers was established by a
(
combination of petrographic and x-ray diffractiqn techniques. In addition, carbonate
(
compositions were determined by electron microprobe analyses (Table 11-9, Appendix IV).
(
' ( The mineralogy, petrography and mineral chemistry of the sulfide layers are not discussed
( here and will be presented in chapter 6.
(
Dark carbonate-quartz layers contain 50 to 95 vol.% carbonates (siderite, ankerite) and 5 to
(
45 vol.% quartz. Carbonaceous "g raphite-like" matter occurs in form of a very fine -grained
(
( stringers (up to 3 vol. %) resulting in the dark colouring of the layers. Sulfides we re also

( observed . Light quartz-carbonate layers consist of 50 to 70 vol.% quartz and 30 to 50 vol.%

( carbonates (siderite, Mn-rich ankerite, Fe-rich dolomite, calcite). Subordinate minerals are
( muscovite and chlorite. Chert layers are composed of quartz (> 95 vol.%) and minor
(
carbonates.
(
( Siderite is the major carbonate mineral occurring interstitial between quartz grains and
( intergrown with ankerite. Average compositions of siderite grains show up to 0.79 wt.% CaO ,
( 2.40 wt. % MnO and 3.47 wt.% MgO (Table 11 -9). Siderite in cross-cutting quartz-carbonate
(
remobilizations (veinlets) are chemically similar to those in quartz-carbonate layers. Ankerite
l
occurs mainly in dark carbonate-quartz layers or as recrystallized crystals in late veinlets
(
together with sulfides. In the light quartz-carbonate layers, poikiloblastic grains with quartz
<..
inclusions can be observed (Plate 4-1 G) . Ankerite grains contain up to 1.48 wt.% MnO and
( 3.29 wt.% MgO. Calcite is a major component only in late quartz-carbonate veinlets. The
<.. mineral contains 97 mole% CaC03 and FeO (1 .23 wt .%), whereas MnO (0.69 wt.%) and MgO
l (0 .08 wt.%) are minor components. Quartz is fine-g rained ( <50 1-1m in size), recrystallized in
:o
l
all layers and shows a stable arrangement in a granoblastic-polygonal aggregate with straight
\.. 0

-t
or smoothly curved grain boundaries . Grain contacts form triple-point junctions with interfacial

( ;~
angles of approximately 120° {Plate 4-1 · G). This texture indicates a static post-tectonic

<.. recrystallization of the rocks after deformation in response to either an relatively high
l te.mperature or a reduction in lattice defects by grain boundary area reduction . A combination

'
<..
~ . .>
of the 1\vo latter processes is also possible (cf. Shelley 1993, Passchier & Trouw 1996). The
quartz grain size is relatively coarser in chert layers than in quartz-carbonate layers, probably
·:::olt
\.
due to growth obstruction of quartz crystals by carbonate grains in the latter.
<.. Jnt

\ --.re Since the Cuiaba-BIF was affected by metamorphism, hydrothermal alteration and
\
1...
<..

•' '
\

,'
(

( Chapter 4 GEOLOGY AND LITHOGEOCHEMISTRY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 43

I

('
I
(
On the No. 17 level (Fig. 4-3) diamond drillholes intersected undeformed dykes (d) which cut
I
(' the upper seq uence of metavolcanoclastics. They are up to 30 meter wid e, striking northeast-
I
( sou thwest. Their mineralogical composition is similar to that of the mafic metavolcanics and to
I
( metabasaltic and metadiabase dykes of the Nova Lima district (Vieira, pers. com.).
I

\
(
I

(
(

(
(
(
( D Meladiabas1c dykes
(

c.
~
D Melapelites and
metavolcanoclasucs

(
(
( ~
I

I
l ·- - ---- - . -
.
• Gold orebod1es

~ Malic melavo lcanic

~ ( m e labasa~s)

( (' i · - .-
.
. -
-· -- -~
.
.
..
-· -··---
--
.
-
D Carbonaceous melapeloles
inlercalaled w~h seri~ized
m alic melavolcanics

( -· t - . - -- -- --
j·::::'-· j Cuiaba-BIF
I
(
(
!
i
0
I
250m _:_~
/. _.
__-::- D MaliC metavolcanics
wilh lenses or metapeliles
'!
Ill '

l ll'")

( r'i Fig. 4-3 Simplified geological map of the Cuiaba Mine, 17 level, based on drill holes of the deep
(_ , I
drill campaign 1995-1996. (PC-54 and PC-56 are the most external drill holes. Modified
(
after Minera~o Morro Velho SA).
Abb. 4-3 Vereinfachte, geologische Karte der Cuiaba Mine, Sohle 17, basierend auf Bohrungen
(
der Bohrkampagne 1995-1996 (Begrenzung durch die beiden auBersten Bohrungen PC-
J 54 und PC-56. Modifiziert aus Unterlagen der Minera~o Morro Velho SA).
\vK

(
4.3 Regional metamorphic grade
l The mineral paragenesis of the BIF co untry rocks and assemblages occu rring withi n shear

!.. ~--nt zones indica te a polyphase metamorphic history of the study area. Regional metamorphism
_,.. in is cha racterized by greenschist facies co ndition s. Mafic metavolcanics exihibit typical mineral

· 3S assemblage of the chlorite zone: chlorite + albite + epidote + zoisite (clinozoisite) + quartz ±

"
\ ' , JtS actin olite ± carbonate. This assemblage is characteristic of metamorphic temperatures from

J. 11dte 350 to 450°C and is stable over a large pressure ran ge (up to 4 kbar, Spear 1995). The
( JCally absence of hornblende indicates that peak metamorphic conditions did not exceed the
l greensch ist-amphibolite fa cies transition (cf. Barker 1994, Spear 1995). The absence of garnet
(

\
(r
~ :~. chapter
4 GEOLOGY AND LITHOGEOCHEMISTRY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 45

(
are characterized by low Ab03 (< 0.45 wt.%) due to the absence of Al-silicates. Sulfur contents
(
are associated with the presence of hydrothermal sulfides indicating an alteration of th e
(
sample . Total org anic carbon reaches values up to 0 .67 wt.%.
(
( compositions of eleven samp les representing light quartz-carbonate and chert lay ers
( (Table11-19) show high contents of si lica ranging from 74 to 95 wt.%). This reflects th e
(
quartz-rich nature of this layers . Compared with the dark carbonate-quartz bands, the lower
(
contents of Fe203, CaO , MgO, MnO and C02 of lig ht quartz-carbonate and chert layers
(

( indicate the relatively low abund ance of carb onates. As for the dark quartz-carbonate layers,

( the su lfur values are related to the occurrence of sulfides. The compositions of other major
( elements are low, close to or below detection limits.
(
Whole rock ana lyses represent samples were the separation of the different mesobands was
(
not possible. As expected, abundances of major elements in th ese layers show intermediate
(
( compositions between dark and light quartz-carbonate/chert layers. Weathered samples of the
:
( ' BIF (no . 33 and 34, Table 11-18) show extremely high Si0 2 contents(> 90 wt.%) and relatively
I
( . \ low contents of other elements.
( l I

I
( . l 4.4.2 Trace elements
I
!
(
Characteristics of tra ce elements are outlined accord ing to their geochemical behaviour and
( .>
subdivided into four different groups: (1) noble metals, (2) transition metals. (3) rare -earth s,
(
I and (4) other trace eleme nts. The data are presented in Tables 11- 18 and 11-19 (Append ix V) .
(,
'
( Gold a nd silver
(
Go ld and silver contents of two dark quartz-carbonate and two light quartz-carbonate
( :P
(, , P
mesobands were determined by instrumental neutron activation analyses (INAA) . Gold

\ l·- abund ance is very low (< 11 ppb) in dark layers and close to 1 ppm in two light quartz

\ r carbonate/chert samples. Higher values for light q ua rtz ca rbonate bands (up to 1.4 ppm) may
(,_ I represent introduction of gold by alteration rather than primary synsedimentary values. This is
\ indicated by the higher su lfur co ntents of these samp les. Similarly, gold values of whole rock
(.
and wheathered samples determined by fire-assay (up to 0 .56 ppm) could reflect some
(.
( su lfidation of these rocks. Silver abu ndances are below detection limits (< 5 ppm) in both dark

\ · 10) and light qu artz-carbonate/chert bands .

s of
Transition metals
\.. P of
.\ ,. of · Abundances of Sc, V , Cr. Co , Ni, Cu and Z n are low, typically less than average crust (Shaw et

(, al. 1976) and most elements are close to or below detection limits. The low abundances can
~s .

\. indicate a specific source of metals. Concentrations of Sc rang e from 0.2 to 0.8 ppm , b eeing
, \ .es
(~

\.
I
'
l
 Chapter 4 GEOLOGY AND LITHOGEOCHEMI STRY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 47

(
• ave rage , includ ing also who le rock ana lysis) and sepa rately fo r dark and light quartz-ca rbonate
(
(
•
I
layers. Averages of distinct mesoba nds are less problematic since the layers are relatively

(
(
•II
homogeneous. For mean calculatio ns of eleme nts be low analytical detection, th eir abund ance
were used as half of the ir detection limit.
'<
..
Major elements
( f
( ~ Average majo r element co mpositions of the C uiaba-BIF (a ll data) were compared with data
(
~ fro m the Yilga rn Block (G ale 1981 ). Isua Belt (Dymek & Kl ein 1988) and Ada ms Mine (G ross
(
1988) (Fig . 4-4).
(

70
(

( -o-- Cuiaba-BIF
60
(
I ~ Yilgarn Block
(
l 50
~ Isua-IF
~
:2
X 40 ___._ Adams Mi ne
\ t
0
~
0

~
30
~ \f
I
(
i i
20
(
o.
(._
10

l 0
(

~
l..

\
~ J Si01 Total Fe Fe,O, FeO lv'gO lv1nO CaO AJ.,O, Na,O K,O TiO, P,O,

(_ I c
Fig. 4-4 Average of major element compositions of the Cuiaba-BI F compared with averages of
\ ~e iron-formations of Canada, A ustralia (Yilgarn Block) and Greenland (lsua Belt) (data :
'"If lsua, Dymek & Klein 1988: Canada, Gross & Mcl eod 1980, Gross 1988; Yilgarn Block.
Gale 1981 ; USA, Lepp 1987. All analyses recalculated to 100 wt.% anhydrous and
.'S carbonate-free) .
\. z Abb. 4-4 Vergleich der mittleren Zusammensetzung der Hauptelemente der Cuiaba-BIF mit
mittleren Zusammensetzungen vo n Eisenerzen aus Kanada, Australien (Yilgarn Block)
t_
-• .g und Grbnland (l sua Belt) (Daten: lsua, Dymek & Klein 1988; Canada, Gross & Mcl eod
\ 1980 , Gross 1988; Y ilgarn Block, Gale 198 1; USA, Lepp 1987. Aile Analysen sind auf
100 Gew.% Wasser und C0 2-frei umgerechnet).
\
\ ·- '1d
l
l
 Chapter 4 GEOLOGY AND LITHOGEOCHEMI STRY OF THE CU IABA MINE AREA Page 49

In summary, it can be co ncluded th at the C uiaba-B IF is simil ar to other Archaean iron-

formation in terms of distribution patterns of m ajor eleme nts compositions . This sim ilarity
suggest that these iro n-form ations were form ed under similar processes (e.g., Gross 1991,
)

t
o ymek & Klein 1988).

Gold and silver

The determination of reliable gold and silver background values of the Cu iaba-BIF was
( '
precluded due to the impossibility to obtain samples of barren BIF which are s ited in a
co nsiderable distance of the mineralized areas. Hence, completely unaltered, barren samples

I
• are not expected to be found . However, gold co mpositions of least altered dark ca rbon ate-
quartz layers are in co ncord ance with averag e values for other Archaean banded iron -
formations (Table 4-2) . These values range between 2 to 210 ppb of gold and 0.04 to <5 ppm

of silver.
('

I
( Table 4-2 Average gold and silver contents of Archaean Algoma-type banded iron-formations.
Tabelle 4-2 Mittlere Gold- und Silbergehalte von Algoma-Typ Eisenerzen des A rchaikums.
(

Region Au (ppb) Ag (ppm) Reference

BRAZIL
(__ Cuiaba (dark carbonate layer) < 11 <5 Ribeiro-Rodrigues (this study )
Morro Velho (Lapa Seca) < 80 < 0.040 Ladeira (1980)
\
(
CANADA
Central Iron Formation Zone 70 Kerswill (1996)
( Lupin Mine 210 Lhotka & Nesbitt (1988)
( Timmins < 20 Fyon et al. (1 983)
Ontario, Quebec G ross (1988)
( Oxide facies 38
l.. Silicate facies 6
Carbonate facies 7
L 34
. I Sulfide facies
Algoma-type (average) 56 Boyle (1979)

( AUSTRALIA
Yilgarn Block < 20 Grov es et al. (1987)

!P'\ges
l~ ,Jata
Transition metals
\ ' .r mit
( ' n USA A verage conce ntrations of transition metals (Table 4-3) are presented graph ically in
(_~
Figu re 4-6 , n ormalized to cru stal average (cf. Sh aw et al. 1976). Cuiaba data is compa red to

\ '
 Chapter 4 GEOLOGY AND LITHOGEOCHEMISTRY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 51

10

I I 0 1 ···O··· Cu1aba -B IF

I -&-cuiaba-BIF (C b -D)

,
I -o-cuiaba·BIF (C b-L )

-liE- BIF -A ig oma (C anada)

( \ ~ l sua-IF
!
\
0 .01 +---------+---------~--------~---------+---------+--------~
( I
Sc v Cr Co Ni Cu Zn
lI
Fig. 4-6 Average compositions of transition metals of the Cuiaba-BIF normalized to average
(
crustal abundances of Shaw et al. (1976). For comparison. average data of Ca nadian
\ Algoma BIF (Gross & Mcleod 1980) and lsua BI F, Greenland (Dymek & Klein 1988)
are presented. Patterns of the Cuiaba-B IF are slightly depleted in Sc and Ni and show
small Co enrichment.
Abb. 4-6 Mittlere Zusammensetzung der Obergangsmetalle der Cuiaba-BIF normiert auf
mittlere Zusammensetzung der Kruste (nach Shaw et al. 1976). Zum Vergleich:
mittlere Zusammensetzungen der kanadischen Algoma-BIF (Gross & Mcleod 1980)
und lsua-BIF, Grdnland (Dymek & Klein 1988). Obergangsmetallmuster der Cuiaba-
BIF zeigen eine Verarmung in Sc und Ni sowie eine geringe Co-Anreicherung.

Cuiaba abundances normalized to Superior-type iron -formation display strong depletion in Sc.
depletion s in V, Cr. Ni and enrichme nt in Cu and Zn. Cuiabfl patterns are similar in shape to
the Algoma/Superior and !sua/Superior ratios (Fig . 4-7b). Exception is Ni which depleted in
Cuiaba sa mples. These similar distributions indicate a similarity between the Cuiaba-BIF and
Algoman iron-formations. This suggests also similar processes responsible for differences in
metal distribution betwee n Superior- and Algoma-type iron-formations.

Rare earths

)
Regardless of their provenance , age and metamorphic grade, detritus-free Precambrian iron-
...y formations show a characteristic large positive Eu anomaly and a less well defined negative
vC anomaly forCe, (Eu/Sm)cn <1 and (Eu/Sm)sn >1 (e.g., lsua -BIF, Dymek & Klein 1988; Raposos
:\ed Mine, Ladeira et al. 1991 ; Canadian BIF, Gross 1992; BIF of Australia , South Africa ,
Zimbabwe, India and China , Bau 1991 a, 1991 b, Bau & Moller 1993 and references therein) .
Limited REE data of the Cuiaba Mine is unconclusive and , thus, cannot be compared with the
above cited banded iron-formations.
Page 52 GEOLOGY AND LIT HOGEOCHEMISTRY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Chapter 4

(a)
u.
m

I
)(

't)
@j,
0.1

i-
i " 0 '

-lr-
Cuoaba-B I F

C uoaba-BI F (Cb-D)

-o- Cu oaba-BIF (Cb-L)

-x- lsua-BIF

0 . 01+--------+------------------~-------+--------~------~
Sc v Cr Co No Cu Zn

10

(b)
u.
m
~15
l't5

f c
a

f 0 .1
Cuoab~-BIF
d

--
--6- C uoaba-B IF (Cb-D) in
C u oaba-BIF (C b-L)
-<>-- A l goma-type B IF
-..- lsu a-B IF
4.
0 .01 +--------+--------~------~~------~--------~------~
Sc v Cr Co Ni Cu Zn
Th

Fig. 4-7 Average compositions of Cuiaba-BIF transition metals normalized to average

abundances of (a) Algoma-type and (b) Superior-type Canadian iron-formations
[For comparison, data of Algoma-type BIF (Canada) and lsua-BIF (Greenland) is
presented. The Cuiaba-BI F abundances are roughly uniform depleted relative to Uj
Algoma-type iron-formations. Patterns are similar in shape from those of the !sua
and Algoma-type BIF when normalized to Superior-type iron-formations. Data from .. lei
Table 11-20, Appendix V) .
teXt
Abb. 4-7 Mittlere Gehalte der Obergangsmetalle der Cuiaba-BIF normiert auf mittlere
Zusammensetzungen von (a) Algoma-Typ und (b) Superior-Typ der kanadi~chen res~
Eisenerze (Die Gehalte der Obergangsmetalle der Cuiaba-BIF sind gleichma~ig
gegenuber dem Algoma-Typ verarmt. lm Diagramm (b) erkennt man ein ahnliches ~ 1 ter
Muster tor Cuiaba-BIF, Algoma-Typ und lsua-BIF. Diagrammdaten nach
Tabelle 11-20 , Anh ang V) .
(
( ..
}
"""et-

( Chapter 4 GEOLOGY AND LITHOGEOCHEMI STRY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 53
t
(

(
Clastic components in the Cuiaba-BIF

Although iron-formations originated as chemically precipitated sediments, they can contain

\
( clastic components. These can be provided , for example , by air-fall volcanic debris or by the
weathering of felsic rocks of the cru st (e.g. , Khan & Naqvi 1996). Due to the highly deformed
and metamorphosed characteristics of the Cuiaba-B IF, the evaluation of influence of detritus
component must be based on th eir chemica l characteristics. A possibility is th e use of the
I l
Ab0 3 and Ti0 2 contents as indicators of clastic components (e.g., Ewers & Morris 1981,
Dymek & Klein 1988). Increasing concentrations of these elements should reflect progressively
higher amounts of detrital components. At the Cuiaba-BIF, the concentration of both Ab0 3 and
Ti0 2 are very low suggesting minimal contamination by clastic components .
(
The evaluation of detritus influence is also possible using elements as Zr, Hf, Y, Rb , Sr, Ta
(
and Hf which are brought to the ocean water by the weathering of felsic rocks of the crust

( (Khan & Naqvi 1996). Also the enrichment of ferromagnesian elements as Sc, Cr. Ni, Co, V
( may be considered as indicator for the supply of terrigenous material during BIF deposition.
High abund ances of these elements are unlikely to be related to the seawater from which th e
chemical sediment precipitated . The source ca n either be weathering of mafic rocks or within-
basin volcanism. Samples which have low detritus contamination are characterized by Sc <
0.43 ppm, Th < 0.09 ppm and Hf < 1 ppm (e.g., Bau 1991a, Bau 1993). Limited data set of the
Cuiaba-BIF samples satisfy all th ese criteria of detritus-free iron-formations. Only a sample of
dark carbonate-quartz layer (no. 13, Table 11-18, Appendix V) shows slightly high Sc
abundance (0.8 ppm). Compositions of other indicator elements (e.g., Th, Hf) are below
detection limit, indicating a pure chemica l precipitation from seawater without significant
influence of terrigenous material.

4.5 Geochemistry of the Cuiaba-BIF country rocks

The characterization of the volcano-sedimentary stratigraphy in greenstone belt sequences is
a major task for mineral exploration (e.g., Maclean & ~arre t 1993). Correct identification of
lithotypes in the Cuiaba Mine area is necessary to determine tectonic setting of mineralization.
definition of alteration patterns and establishment of correlations in the Rio das Velhas
Supergroup greenstone belt sequence. In the study area, rocks were submitted to regional
metamorphism and hydrothermal alteration (see chapter 7) which caused mineralogical .
.textural and chemical changes. This hampers the identification of the protoliths and is
responsiple for debate on the nature of some lith otypes of the sequence (Table 4-1 ). After
alteration, only the banded iron-formations and the carbonaceous metapelites are undoubtly
recognizable. Locally, altered mafic metavolcanics (mba , man) are hardly distinguishable from
,.- ~

--- r- r ,.... ,.....

r r ,- r r r - -- - ,.....
- -
..
r ....... ,...._ ,-,
".. .. ..
I I ~- ~
~ ~ ,-- r- ~ ....... ,_..... ,--. --. - .......

- -
~ ~ ~

'- '

· ·- ····.. ·- --· .. ... - --- --·

.-..-.-,, ........... ~
,_
..- .r ~

()
::r
0:>

\~
45 18000

40 .1.
0 Le~s.l ;)lter ed mba (a) 0 L ..· o:..t _, l11.:t..:d 111t><.~
/(b) \
+ Allc r <"d mb.:. 1 6000
- - Lln.;,.:~r (L e.:Jst .Jitercd mba}
Tholeiitic r< ~"' + A. l to::rr(."CJ fi' O.:J

'!.-'
35 .j.
v• 14000
- - Lm•.:.:Jr (l'-.' ..J ~ I ,'l it(• red mb a) GJ
0 2908x · 8 .0385
m
30 .j.
R' • 0 .8515
R • o 9~ 2e .. ... 0
0
... 0

12000 y - 107 !lx · 20:'-tl 7

0
+
0
0
0
r
O<C>
... ... ("{""1
R;-•07t.;25
R • O 8732
+
0 0
0 G)
25 .1. ... Transitional -z_< - -
-<
E
c.
c. .. +
+ - 10000
E
0.
... +
+> +
+ )>
20 -~--
>- 0
+
+
... 8000 -== ... ... z
J..~"" +
+ f-
0 0
15 .1. ,}' + r
.. + Calc-alkaline 6000
.. + =i
I
10 .j. / + zr!Y" 30 +
+
4 000 0
+ + + G)
+
5 / + m

0
0
1 I

50
Z r ( ppm )

100 150 200

I
2000

0
+ Z r (p pm)
0
0
I
m
0 50 100 150 200 s::
(f)
25 --l
25 :::0
(d) -<
0 lell:~>l .JJictcd rnb.t
(c) 0
11
+ A lll•rca mbJ +
+ 20
20 f --i
L!l"'t=~r
- ilco::-.1 a 11 crcd mba)
I
+ m
y . 0 .0679• • 3 820 + ~
0
0
~ c
R=' • 0 9 179
+
15 f
-
~
0
R • 0 9581
+
+
15
-
(")
0
+
)>
OJ

10 f
!
(")
+
+ +

10
N
<(
+
)>·
s:
+ +
0
" Lc~:.f ~"'llcrca
z
N
<(
o

+ A lle r~d mb.J

mb.J
m
)>
5 f 5 - Lm ,.~• r (l':,.j!lol .dletC'O m b.•J
:::0
y .. 3 1<1.d .2x • Gtj:;26
m
)>
R 1 ~ 0832

0 I
0
I

50
Zr (ppm)

100
I

150
I
200
0
Ti02 ( wt.%) R• 0 9 121
"lJ
0)
c.c
0 0.5 1 .0 1.5 2 .0 2.5 3 .0 (!)

CJl
CJl
 I j
Chapter 4 GEOLOGY AND LITHOGEOCHEMISTRY OF THE CU IABA MINE AREA Page 57

Discrimination using the ra tio Zr/Y plotted against the fractionation index Zr indicate a within
plate origin for these rocks (Fig. 4-10 a. Pearce & Norry 1979). A similar diagram based upon
-· Zr!Y and Ti!Y va riations to discrimin ate betwee n within-plate basalts and other types of basa lts
{ do not cha racterize the Cuiaba samples as within-plate basalts (Fig . 4-10 b, Pearce & Gale
1977). The un conclusive results of the tectonic setting from mafic metavolcanics suggest that
the application of discriminating diagrams to rocks affected by alteration in the Quadrilatero
Fe rrifero is questionable.

Due to the mobile nature of most major e leme nts, classification of volcanic rocks using plots
such as AFM or alkalis versus silica have little reliability and, therefore , were not utilized.
Application of discriminating diagrams utilizi ng Nb (e.g., Meschede 1986) was precluded by
low co ntents of this element in Cuiaba sa mples.

( Chondrite-no rmalized REE diagrams (F ig . 4- 11 ) of two least altered samples show broadly
\_ similar patterns. Samples show a depletion of heavy REE [{la/Lu)cn= 1.9-2.0]. Compa red to
TH1 Archaean tholeiitic basalts of Co ndie (1981), which are th e common volcanic ro ck type in
most greenstone belts (50-80 %), Cuiaba samples show: (1) higher contents of REE (a bout
(. .
20-50 times chond rite concentration s) and (2) similar absence of Eu anomaly.

4.5.2 Geochemistry of clastic metasediments and metavolcanoclastics ;I

( i~
;:!·
( Chemical analyses of , least altered " metasediments and metavolcanoclastics (i.e, samples i~·
.:;-.
·'!· .
~•

I\ . with < 1 vol. % sulfide) are prese nted in Table 11-21 (Appendix V) . In this table is also 11·1
. ~·
( ;;:o
presented the average compositions of th e post-Archaean , North American Shale Composite" :::o

(NASC, Gromet et al. 1984) and of th e Proterozoic Chuniespoort Gro up shales. South Africa ....-·
....
(Meye r & Robb 1996). Compositions display some variability , probably due to inhomogene ity in ...
, ¥

( J

mineralogy. Although the major element content possibly has been cha nged (at least in part) •W I ••

( '
( during metamorphism and alteration , the co mpositions of Cuiaba metapelites are broad ly

l. . comparable to oth er post-Archaean and A rchaean sha les (e .g ., NASC, Witwatersrand Basin .

( ' Wronkiewicz & Condie 1987). As visib le in the outcrops , th e organic carbon content is lower in
{ ' the metapelites (X 1) relative to th e carbonaceous metapelites (Fg) . The latte r can be
co nsidered as typica l metamorphosed bla ck shales (> 0.5 wt.% of organic carbon, cf . Huyck
1991).

\, Gold contents of two samples of metapelites samples are in the range of 10 ppb and th e
observed Cr and Ni enrichments of Archaean shales (e.g. , Meyer & Robb 1996) is also
\ presented in the Cuiaba metape lites. Chondrite-normalized REE patterns of two ana lysed
(_ sa mples are comparable to both NASC and Chu niespoort (Fig . 4-1 2). REE contents are 30 to
50 % less abundant than NASC and Cuiaba samples show also the ty pical characteristics of
! '
 ....,.
I
I
J
Chapter 4 GEOLOGY AND LITHOGEOCHEMISTRY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 59
,I

100

(
)I

'
I
I

I
- Cuiaba (no .67)
-o- Cuiaba (no. 50)
-fr- TH1
' I
2
·.:
"0

~
(.)
Q)
c.
(' I E
f ' I
~

( 10
La Ce Pr Nd Sm Eu Gd Tb Dy Ho Er Tm Yb Lu

Fig. 4-11 Chondrite normalized REE patterns of least altered mafic metavolcanics (samples no.
50 and 67) compared to TH1 basalts of Condie (1981) (chondrite abundaces after
Evenson et al. 1978).
Abb. 4-11 Vergleich chondritnormierter SEE-Muster der wenig alterierten, mafischen Meta-
vulkanite (Proben Nr. 50 und 67) mit TH1-Balsalt von Condie (1981) (Chondrit-
Zusammensetzung nach Evenson et al. 1978).

shales. namely: (1) high contents of REE relative to chondritic meteorites, (2) LREE
enrichment, (3) flat HREE patterns and (4) a Eu negative anomaly. As suggest by Taylor &
Mclennan (1985), this uniformity of REE distribution support a view that sedimentary REE
patterns reflect the upper continental crust exposed to weathering and erosion. According
these authors, th e patterns would best compa re to granodiorit co mpositions as so urce area.
However, lower Th/Sc, La/Sc, V/Ni ratios as well as higher Ni!Co and CrN than corresponding
( ratios of NASC and Chuniespoort suggest a higher mafic component in the Cuiaba metapelites
'
than in Phanerozoic shales and shales of the Transvaal Basin. As the Cuiaba metapelites are
associated with mafic metavolcanics rocks , the metal abunda nces of these rocks can be
ascribed to be regarded to exhalative activity and marine water component. This possibly
relative contribution of a mafic-ultramafic source is also reflected in the Ni contents of
metapelites (up to 400 ppm) as well as in Cr/Zr ratios varying from 2.5 in the carbonaceous
metapelites to 6.8 in the metapelites.
( I

Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 61

5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA

5.1 Introduction
As already discussed in the chapter 3. the greenstone-hosted gold mineralization in the Quadrilatero
Ferrifero displays a strong structural control. In order to have a better understanding of the structu ral
evolution and its relation with the gold mineralization, a detailed structura l study was carried out at
the Cuiaba Deposit. Two fields of the structural analysis were investigated in this work (sensu Turner
& Weiss 1963, Davis & Reynolds 1996):

(1) the descriptive st ructu ral analysis which is concerned with recognizing and
describing structures and measuring their location , geometries and orientations;

(2) the kinematic structural analysis w hich focuses on interpreting the deformational
movements responsible for the development of the structures at all scales. their
sig nificance and implications for the gold mineralization.

Data resulted from observations of several geological profiles, drill cores and detailed underground
structural analysis. Over 3000 linear and planar structural data were used to compile structural-
geological maps and structural diagrams. In addition to that, microtectonic studies were undertaken
on oriented samples to establish a more precise correlation between minor and major structures.

( '
5.2 Major regional and local structures

5.2.1 Tectonic evolution

The available structural and geochronological data show that the Quadrilatero Ferrifero has been
subjected to polyphase deformation with a comp lex tectonic evolution (Dorr 1969, Ladeira & Viveiros
(~ 1984, Bela de Oliveira 1986a. Belo de Oliveira & Vieira 1987 , Belo de Oliveira & Teixeira 1990.
Marshak & Alkmim 1989, Romano 1990, Chemale Jr. et al. 1994) (Table 5-1) .

The oldest recorded deformation, the Rio das Velhas orogeny (2.8-2.7 Ga .. Carneiro et al. 1994) is
characterized by a compressive tectonics with a dominant strike-slip deformation which produced a
horizontal to sub horizontal mineral lineation on a N-S-trending foliati on with vertical dip. This orogeny
is difficult to decipher due to the pervasive nature of the following two main events that dominate the
structural pattern of the area: the Transamazonic and Brasiliano orogenies.

Du ring the Transamazonic orogeny (2 .1-1.7 Ga) occu rred two major deformation phases : the first
one , an extensional reg im e (2 .1 Ga. Marshak et al. 1994) which resulted in the uplift of the Archaean
gr~nite-gneiss blocks and the nucleation of the regional synclines in the overlying Rio das Velhas
and Minas Supergroups (Chemale Jr. et al. 1994 ). Ductile-brittle to ductile extensiona l shear zones
were developed. representing dislocation surfaces of Archaean blocks. A compressional phase is
 ~-r
I Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CU IABA MIN E AREA Page 63

(l autochtonous and w ere less deformed by the Brasiliano orogeny.

The present observed complex structu ral geometry of the Quadrilatero Ferrifero was influenced by
two critical factors (Chemale Jr. et al. 1994 ): (1) the basement relief with several structural highs that
acted as rig id buttresses, resulting in com plex structures and (2) the current erosional level, allowing
the observation of the resulting structures from the interaction of supra- and infrastructure.

5.2.2 Mining district and local structures

The study area is located in the domain of the Eastern Serra do Curral megasyncline
(Pomerene 1964) and within the Serra do Curral Thru st System (Fig. 5-1). The megasyncline
represents the overturned south-eastern limb of a truncated syncline w here lithotypes of the Minas
Supergroup occur as an inverted sequence. The northeast-trending, inverted limb of the syncline is
( truncated near the contact of the Minas and Rio das Velhas Supergroups by wide, km-scale, ductile,
obliq ue-slip reverse shear zones of the Serra do Curral Thrust System (Fig. 5- 1). The entire eastern
Serra do Curral is highly strained and sinistrally rotated approximately 25° from its ori ginal position
by these shear zones (Chemale Jr. et al. 1994).

Surface lineaments (i.e., the intersection betwee n a tectonic surface and the topographical surface,
cf. O'leary 1976) observed in aerial photographs show north-south, east-west and northeast-
southwest trends (Fig. 5-2). Their strike extent varies from few hundred meters to more than one
kilometer. E-W and NE-SW lineam ents are generally over 500 meters in leng th showing curvilinear
shapes.

5.3 Structural analysis

Based on cross cutting and overpri ting relationships of fold s, foliations, lin eations, faults/shear zones
and fractures, at least three deform ation phases (01, 0 2 , 0 3) can be recog nized in the Cuiaba Mine
area (Table 5-2) . The id entification o f primary sedim entary structures is largely hampered due to the
intense deform ation and subsequent static recrystallization. However, in places, prim ary structures
are preserved as the BIF-ba nding (ma nifes ted by rhythmica lly altern ating layers of chert. sulfides
and quartz-ca rbonate) and compositional vari ations in metasediments.

5. 3.1 D1 phase structures

The most pervasive deform ation phase record ed in the area is the 0 1 phase which is responsible for
the form ation of the prominent structures in the stud y area. The ea rli est structures recognized at
Cuiaba include: the Cuiaba fold, a penetra tive axial-planar foliation (S 1), a mylonitic foliation (S m 1) .
fl exural slip bedding-paral_lel foliation (Sf1 ), north-east-verging thrusts, minera l/str~tc hing lineations
l,
(Lmin 1, Lstr1), shear fractures and q uartz remobilization (veining).
l
l
(, '

~
\
 ( T
Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 65

( .

SOOm ~
c==-- .. ,·-~'-

Bedding (S0 ) Sm, mylonitic Stretching

foliation lineation

s, Foliation ~ 0 1 Thrust fault lineament

\ "'

(,
Fig. 5-2 Aerial photograph of the Cuiaba Mine area showing surface lineaments, surface structures and
~ -'
outcrops of the Cuiaba-BIF horizon (photograph: Embrafoto/CEMIG/1990).
l Abb. 5-2 Luftbild der Cuiaba Mine Region mit Kennzeichnung der Photolineationen, Strukturen und
AufschiOsse des Cuiaba-BIF-Horizontes (Luftbild: Embrafoto/CEMIG/1990).

\.
\..
l
l
\.

'
(
·'
 Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 67

length ratios (z:y) ranging from 1:25 and 1:1. Tubu lar folds show hinge line angles w less than 20°.
( i
x:y ratios greater than 1:1 and z:y generally between 1:10 and 1:1 .
I
I The Cuiaba fold, marked by the contou rs of the Cuiaba-BIF (Fig. 5-3 c), has a hinge line ang le
I co) close to 4 o . locally approaching ze ro and with a relatively reg ul ar, closed , elliptica l-shape in
I cross-sections (i.e., yz sections). The down-plunge extent of the cone axis (x axis) can be

I traced for over 3000 meters showing progressively shalow plunges towards depth . Whereas at
the surface the cone axis plung es 116/35. at No. 11 and No. 17 level its plun ges 116/2r and
( 116/24°, respectively. Dimensions of the intermediate y axis vary between 650 and 800
meters. The z axis is relatively constant showing a length of about 350 meters (Fig 5-4 a, b) .

On a mesoscopic-scale, F, folds show variable fold types with axes plunging SE. (Fig. 5-5, plate 5-1
A. B) . The mean orientation (123/36) is parallel to the axis of the Cuiaba tubular fold . Based on the
attitude of their axial plane, their profi le viewed perpendicular to the fold axis and their inter-limb
angles, F 1 folds can be classified as overfold and recumben t (Plate 5-1 A) inclined, open to isoclinal
(P late 5-1 B). Based on the layer shape, they correspond to class 2 (similar folds. Ramsay 1967).
Regarding the fold symmetry, they are mostly assymetric and harmonic folds. In the intensely
deformed parts of the BIF, a-type folds (i.e., folds with axes parallel to the stretching lineation , e.g .
Ramsay & Huber 1987) are common. Characterization of rare exposures of mesoscopic sheath
folds as tubular folds was hampered by (1) the impossibility to establish the exact position of their x.
y and z axes and , hence, (2) the measu rement of their hinge line angles (Plate 5-1 D).

Foliations

The most conspicuous and pervasive planar structure in the area is represented by the s, foli ation
which is im parted on all lithologies. This foliation is transgressive to the bedding and has been
affected by all subsequent deformation phases . A consistent geometric relationship exists between
this foliation and the configuration of F 1 folds. s, foliation is parallel to the axial plane of both
megascopic (Cuiaba fold, Fig. 5-6 a) and mesoscopic F 1 folds (Fig. 5-6 b). This close relation
indicates that D1 folding and S1 cleavage development were, at least in part, synch ronous. Mean
orientation of S1 foliation is 149/51.

The S1 foliation has a physical expression that varies between rock types, from a poorly developed,
discrete spaced-cleavage in the BIF, to a w ell-developed penetrative schistosity, locally phyllitic
structure in the metavolcanics (man , mba and X2) and metasediments (X1 and Xs) (Fig. 5-7 a).

The disjunctive spaced-cleavage is not penetrative on handspecimen and thin section scales. This
cleavage resemb les a fracture-cleavage and can be generally recognized only near the contact
between the BIF and country rocks (Fig. 5-7 a, b) . Conversely, the schistosity is a penetrative
continuous cleavage on outcrop, handspecimen and thin section scales . The sch istosity surface is
produced by the alig nment of platy minerals such as se ricite and chlorite (Fig . 5-7 c, d). Epidote,
 Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MIN E AREA Page 69

Cuiaba tubu lar-s heath fold

Limits of the Cuiaba-BIF

[] Cuiaba-BIF unit

(a) o' - - - -250

-'----'
Y= 650-800 m
8
X=> 3000 m Z= 350m

W=~
,·,,
: " -.. ...... Surface
N 64° W \ ',"- ••. ' ·•
A . "- •• t S 64° E
8
""'-

~
[:~ ..
········....
.. .........
..........
... ...
(b) 500
Y = 650-800 m
m X= > 3000 m Z= 350m

Fig. 5-4 Cuiaba tubular fold. (a) Plan view projection of the No. 3, 11 and 17 level of the
Cuiaba-BIF on the elevation of the No. 3 level. Dimensions of the geometric axis x. y
and z of the Cuiaba fold are presented. (b) Profile AB along the x axis direction (11 6
= S64°E). Note the progressively shall owed attitude of the x cone axis towards depth.
Abb. 5-4 Cuiaba-Tubular-Falte. (a) Projek1ionskarte der Sohlen 3, 11 , und 17, projektiert auf
die Ebene von Sohle 3. Das kleine Bild zeigt Lage und Dimensionen der x-. y-. z-
Achsen; (b) Profil AB parallel zur x-Achse (116=S64°E). Zu erkennen ist die
progressive Verflachung der x-Achse mit der Teufe.

~
I

-... --~ ...

(~

Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 71

A Sm1 mylonitic foli ation is developed in all lithotypes in response to intense shearing as result of

• I
grain size red uction (cf. Barker 1994). This foliation is confined to the high-strain areas (i.e., shear
zones). In the metavolcanics, the mylonitic foliation is defined by a anastomosed or planar-parallel
arrangement of minerals such as fl attened sericite, quartz ribbons , deformed and broken alteration
carbonates (Fig . 5-7 d). The Sm, foliation in the BIF is marked by carbon-rich thin layers with
sulfides parallel to the foliation . The sulfides are also oriented parallel to the stretching lineation
(P late 5-1 C) .

The flexural slip bedding -parallel foliation (Sf,) is a result of shear displacement or slip between
the different BIF-Iayers or at the contact of th e BIF with the country rocks (Fig-7a ).

Shear zones/Faults

0 1 shear zones are ductile to ductile-brittle high-strain areas displaying tectonite fabrics (cf., Davis &
Reynolds 1996), such as a well-developed mylonitic foliation (Sm ,) and a mineral stretching lineation
(lstr,) (Plate 5-1 B. C and Fig. 5-7 D). Geometries of D, shear zones are planar-to-sheet-like,
curviplanar zones composed of mylonites, i.e. strongly foliated rocks that are characteristic of high
ductile strain and show a grain size reduction relatively to its precursor (cf. Bell & Hammond 1984,
Passchier & Trouw 1996). Contacts between the shear zones and wallrocks are gradual, without
sharp physical breaks. Shear zones occur commonly (1) subparallel! to BIF-country rock contacts
(Fig. 5-10 a), (2) subparallel to compositional layering (bedding) in the BIF (Fig . 5-10 b) or (3)
parallel to the s, foliation within the country rocks (Fig . 5-6b, Fig. 5-10 c). The development of o,
shear zones is a result of concentration of deformation in planar zones during phase .

Where shear zones show a more brittle character the development of drag folding is evident. This is
a result of frictional drag deformation of strata close to the o, shear surfaces. They are commonly
observed in the BIF (Fig. 5-6b). The truncated ends of dragged layers point away from the sense of
actual relative movement, since the hanging-wall strata of th e thrust-slip faults are dragged in to
anticlinal. Sigmoidal drag folds occur between shea r zones cross-cutting the BIF (F~.10 d).

Dilation structures

Quartz remobilizations (vei ns) occur commonly during o, shearing, particularly in the mafic
metavolcanics. Most remobilizations develop subparallel to the Sm 1 mylonitic foli ation and are
composed of milky quartz and rarely calcite and siderite. Early-formed quartz veins may be folded,
lengthened , boudinaged an·d orientated parallel to s, (Fig . 5-11 a). In the BIF, layer-parallel
stretching is accommodated by the form ation of tension fractures fill ed also by white milky quartz
(Fig . 5-11 b).

Fibrous strain shadows (pressure shadows) develop commonly around alteration carbonates
(Fig . 5-7 c and d) and pyrite crystals (Fig S-11 c, d). They are mainly of pyrite-type , i. e .. they involve
 Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 73

[ I

( '

-~

.::.

·~

-~
 Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 75

·-~
progressive fibre growth of several mineral species which are different of the rigid object (Barker
1994). Strain shadows occur as wedge-shaped areas composed of less deformed minerals (quartz,
carbonate, chlorite, sericite and rarely sphalerite) that grew or recrystallized progressively during
deformation. In displacement-controlled strain shadows, new mineral growth takes place esentially
in the plane of s, foliation and shows a consistent geometry along the displacement path (Fig .
5-11 c) . However, fibre orientation is not in all cases associated with kinematic directions. In many
cases, fibres are face-controlled, growing normal to the face of the pyrite porphyroblast irrespective
of the local displacement directions (Fig . 5-11 d). Most strain shadows are microscopic and those
visible in outcrops are less than .1 centim eter long (Fig. 5-11 e).

Massive (non fibrous) strain shadows occur in elongated domains on both sides of pyrite
porphyroblasts in which the fabric is different from that in the matrix. These domains c:re enriched in
quartz, carbonate and chlorite and show a sharp transition to the matrix (Fig. 5-11 e).

Lineation s
(

The o, deformation phase has imparted a linear fabric in the rocks and, locally, an intersection
lineation. The Lm in1 mineral lineation developed in the plane of the s, foliation and is marked by a
streaky, fibre-like lineation whose actual physical expression is generally difficult to recognize in
outcrop or hand specimen (Plate 5-1 C). Microscopically, the mineral lineation is expressed by the
preferred orientation of euhedral to subhedral grains and/or aggregate of minerals such as sericite,
chlorite and quartz (Fig . 5-7 c). In the BIF, pyrite is also recrystallized in the S1 foliation parallel to
mineral lineations. In zones of most intense shear (e.g., fault planes and shear zones) the mineral
lineation is defined by an alignment of elongated, deformed carbonate grains and stretched (chlorite-
(
sericite aggregates and/or mechanically broken grains. These features characterize a Lstr1
stretching lineation which is commonly parallel to strain shadows of pyrite crystals (Fig . 5-7 d).

Fig. 5-Q Geometric relationship between F1 folds and S1 schistosity. (a) Simplified geologic map of the
Cuiaba Mine, No. 3 level, showing the mean of S1 foliation measurements in different structural
domains (the strike of S 1 foliation is parallel to the axial plane of the Cuiaba tubular fold.
Structural domains correspond to the main orebodies). (b) Sketch of an outcroup of the
Serrotinho orebody, No. 5 level showing the relationship of F1 mesoscopic folds and other D1
structural elements (S1 foliation is parallel to the axial plane of recumbent, tight to isoclinal,
harmonic F1 folds and has a refraction passing through the less competent carbonaceous
metapelite to the more competent BIF).
Abb. 5-Q Geometrie der F1-Falten und der S1-Schieferung. (a) Vereinfachte geologische Karte der
Cuiaba Mine, Sohle 3 (die S1-Schieferung liegt parallel zur Achsenebene der Cuiaba-Tubular-
Falte. Die strukturellen Domanen korrespondieren mit den Haupterzkorpern). (b) Skizze eines
Aufschlusses der Serrotinho Erzkorper, Sohle 5: Zusamenhang von F1-Falten und anderen
tektonischen Elementen der D1-Deformation (Auch hier ist die S 1-Schieferung paralllel zur
Achsenebene der F1·Falten. Die S1·Schieferung wird aufgrund des Kompetenzunterschiedes
( zwischen den Metapelite und den BIFs gebrochen).
(

(
(

'
-.. .,-...... - ......- ,..........,
r----,-...-
~ ' .......

"' """"' ...._ -, ~ ~

---- - -
~ ~1
()
:T

tN
Q)
'0
S1 (1 66) -~ S 1 (55)
...ro
N

(~~ Ll1((~-~~)!1 ~~~

Lm1 (80) \ Lm 1 (54)

fF.
~. (J'$__.. c~
S1 (55)
Lm1 (25) 01

I •
\,
.......
---
. r,
.
I .

,f •
'

1 - \ ' ••
•

/ , Q "
'~-
o.
B Quartz veins
(J)

~
N -i
------......... . .-/ I ·, ·--,_ Gold orebodies :::u
S1 (47) j _____.:., c

( ~0J;J .
N
--~ ~ ',,
-4~;:_
,_ (~
Lm 1 (25) ... - S1 (23) 0
+ .:.. ----",,-...,__ " ~o-
Lm1 (1 3)
El Carbonaceous
metapelites
-f
c
0~·
' '···. 0 ~
· .
. _,....--/
f

D Cuiaba-BIF r
G)
S1 (1 7)
Lm1 (1 6) B Mafic
metavocanics
m
0
r
0
) 0 ,10 2 thrust fault G)
-<
0
11
-f
I
@ S 1 poles contours m
0
0 Mineral lineation (Lm1 ) c

~})
)>
S1 (20) N
S1 (47) t:, Stretching lineation (ls1) OJ
)>-

0 150 m ~
r(171 j 0
Intersection lineation
(Sox S1)
~
z
m
'·--..~ '
c:J G
Structural domain )>
:::0
0
--~ ~

Fig. 5-8 Lower hem isphere, equal-area stereographic projections of poles to S, foliation and L, lineations in the Cuiab8-BIF country rocks (mafic
metavolcanics and metasediments). Structural data are from open pit, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 11 levels (after Vial 1980c, Vieira 1992 and -u
Ill
<0
Ribeiro-Rodrigues, this study. Numbers in brackets represent the number of measurements). CD
Abb. 5-8 Darstellung der S,-Foliationen und L,-Lineationen der Cuiab8-BIF (untere Halbkugel des Schmidtschen Netzes. S,-Foliationen als
-...j
Flachenpole). Aufnahme der strukturellen Daten im Tagebau und auf der Sohle 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 und 11 (von Vial 1980c, Vieira 1992 und -...j

Ribeiro-Rodrigues, diese Arbeit. Anzahl der Messungen in Klammern).

(
'
'
(
( Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 79
(
(

( , NW SE

Shear zone
(Sm,= 138/37,
( '
=
lstr, 128/30)

(
(
'
I
t
( 1 =130/22
I 0 1m 0 ~
(a) (b) 50cm

(
SE NW

( I
I
I
Sigmoidal ductile
shear zone
(d) 0
I
50 em
I
(

(
(
Fig. 5-10 S 1 faults and shear zones.
l (a) s, fault zone subparallel to the contact between the Cuiaba-BIF and the carbonaceous
metapelite (Fg). Discrete tabular to curviplanar shear zones occur in both lithologies. Quartz
'
l
remobilizations were formed parallel to the Sm, mylonitic foliation and distinct slickensides on
the Sm 1 surface indicate that it was reactivated during D2 shearing. The contact between the
(. BIF and the mafic metavolcanics (X2) has been not affected by shearing (Balancao orebody,
No. 11 level).
(b) S 1 shear zones associated with folding and subparallel to the compositional layering (bedding)
I_ in the BIF. The b1 axis of a inclined, isoclinal fold is parallel to the stretching lineation (stope of
the Serrotinho orebody, No. 5 level).
l
(c) S 1 shear zone parallel to s, foliation which is. axial planar to tight to isoclinal, desharmonic
l folds. The bedding is truncated by a s, shear zone at the contact with the carbonaceous schist
l (stope of the Serrotinho orebody, No. 5 level).
l (d) Drag folds formed between twos, mesofaults (stope of the Serrotinho orebody, No.5 level).
t
Abb. 5-10 S 1-Storung s- und Scherzonen.
l
(a) S,-Storungszone subparall el zu dem Kontakt zwischen Cuiaba-BIF und kohligem Metapelit (Fg)
l (Balancao Erzkorper, Sohle 11 ).
I_ (b) s,-Scherzone assoziiert mit Faltung subparallel zur Banderung (Schichtung) der BIF
l (Serrotinho Erzkorper, Sohle 5).
(c) S,-Scherzone ausgebildet parallel zur s,-Foliation und als Achsenebene enger bis isoklinaler,
L ·-.- unharmonischer Falten (Serrotinho Erzkorper, Sohle 5) .
l .,;. (d) ,.Drag"-Falten zwischen zwei S 1-Stbrungen (Serrotinho Erzkorper, Sohle 5) .
)-
L "!'

l
\.._

l.
(
1
 Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MIN E AREA Page 81
(

NW SE NW SE
White milky quartz

White milky quartz

Sm, =160/30

(
Sm, =164167

t
(a) 0 1m
(b) 0 30 em
I

( ' I
soovm
Shear zone
Pyrite

Quartz + chlorite
(d) o soovm Ca rbonate
L
l ----l'
....

L....._ .

~seric~e Pyrite

~
Shear zone:

(f) o soovm
(e) ----;?' 0 1 em
( ' Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 83
(
(
I
.
F2 folds, S2 foliation and 02 faults

( F 2 folding is reflected by the local refolding of the Cuiaba fold with the formation of synforms and

( antiforms (Fig. 5-13). The fold s are most b-type (e.g., Ramsay & Huber 1987), showing a southwest-

( / northeast trend. On mine-scale, F2 folds are not easily recognizable and distinguishable from F 1
( folds. Whereas F, folds are mesoscopic with amplitude up to one meter, F2 folds exihibt amplitudes
( of several meters.
(.
The 02 phase was not accompa nied by the development of a pervasive, penetrative S2 foliation.
( .
Foliation is represented by a Sm2 mylonitic foliation associated with 0 2 shearing. Figure 5-14 a
( I

presents the structural diagram for the Sm2 mylonitic foliation. Distributions of poles in a circle
( ,I

(
' indicate a NS folding of this foliation.
( I Based on cross cutting relationships a reactivation of early o, structures by 0 2 ductile-britlle shear
( I
zones/faults is suggested. 02 fault z ones are arranged as sets of several individual, thrust-slip,
( I
discrete shear zones in a sigmoidal pattern, both transgressive or parallel to the original litholog ical
(
(
layering and s, foliation (Fig . 5-15). They are composed of ramps (i. e. shear plane moderately
I
dipping to relatively high angle with layer) and fl ats (i.e. shear plane subparallel to the bedding)
( I
forming isolated , diverging, rejoining and connecting splays (cf. Boyer & Elliot 1982, Butler 1987).
I
Litholog ical contacts, in particular the contacts of the Cu iaba-BIF with its country rocks and lenses of
I
( carbonaceous metasediments are generally preferential sites of development of individual discrete
I
( shear zones. Typ ical features associated with D2 shearing are (1) the recrystallization of quartz of
the Cu iaba-B IF givin_g rise to a quartz vein-like rock (Plate 4-1 G), (2) the intense quartz
remobilization at the contact with the Cuiaba-BIF (Plate 5-1 F), (3) the concentration of
carbon aceous matter in individual fault planes and (4) the presence of local inversion s in the
litholog ical seq uence due to thrusting. The magnitude of D2 faults displacements along strike can be
( '
estimated to be about 1 to 5 m. Rotation of porphyroclasts and SIC structures indicate a NW
verging, oblique-, reverse-slip movement for the 0 2 shear zones . 02 mesofaults parallel to s,
foliation occurred in response to accommodation of deformation during progressive D2 shearing.

( )
Boudinage, pinch-and-swell and dilation structures

The most conspicuous structure developed during D2 w as the boudinage the northwestern portion of
the Cuiaba-BIF horizon (Balancao and Galinheiro orebodies) (Fig . 5-16). Its segmentation into

( /
boudins is associated with anticlockwise rotation and remobilization of material. At mine-scale,
( J there is a complete variation of boudin types from the incipient ones to the lenticular type (Fig . 5-17).
\ ) The differing final geometries of the bound ins w as controlled by (1) differential stress, (2) rheological
differences within the Cuiaba-BIF, caused by alternation of distinct layers, (3) competence contrasts
between the country rocks an'd the BIF itself, (4) the amount of deformation, as well as by (5) the
(. j
strain-state and (6) the strain-rate. The boudinaged layers have no constant wavelength and the
( )
Width and separation between the bou ndins are also variable . However, looking three-dimensionally,
( ) -.
·~

l
I' Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MIN E AREA Page 85

(
(
(
Sm 2 mylonitic foliation Lmin 2 mineral lineation
r
(a) N (b) N
(
(
(
(

(
..• • •••• ••• • .
__... -----·-·-
•
0
(
I +
•
(

( ·I
(
(

(
( ' l n= 19 n= 11
:
( ' I

(
( Fig. 5-14 Lower hemisphere, equal-area stereographic projections of poles to (a) Sm 2 mylonitic foliation
and (b) Lmi~ mineral linetaion in the Cuiaba Mine area (structural data from No. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
( and 11 levels, after Vial 1980c, Vieira 1992 and Ribeiro-Rodrigues, this study. Numbers in
brackets represent the number of measurements).
( Abb. 5-14 Darstellung der (a) mylonitische 8m2-Foliation und (b) Lmi~-Minerallineation der Region der
Cuiaba Mine (Projektionen in der unteren Halbkugel des Schmidt'schen Netzes, Sm2-Foliation
( als Flachenpole. Aufnahme der strukturellen Daten in Sohle 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 und 11 , von Vial
I

( 1980c, Vieira 1992 und Ribeiro-Rodrigues, diese Arbeit. Anzahl der Messungen in Klammem).

<, I
( I
I the boundins do not exhibit a simple cylindrical geometry, but show a chocolate tablet structure.
~ I
Incipient boundins reflect the more competent behavior of some BIF layers relative to others. They
t
( are observed commonly in the competent chert layers where they are separated from each other by
I I
( a single discrete extension vein (Fig . 5-17 a). The common occurrence of more comp lex quartz
I
remobilization within the BIF, that have no association with shearing, is also suggested to have

\ formed as result of boudinage processes (Fig. 5-17 b) . Together with quartz is characteristic the
( presence of minor pyrrhotite and chlorite is these remobilizations .
( ' /

In areas where competence contrasts between the BIF and the adjacent metavolcanics and
t' I
metasediments are not strongly marked, the boudinage was developed via ductile necking, forming
t I
I
~ \
pinch-and-swell boudins (lenticular, e.g. Price & Cosgrove 1991) (Fig. 5-17 c). Similar pinch-and-
! swell structures are also observed in quartz veins in metavolcanics. The space created between two
boudins as they move apart may be filled either by the country rocks of the BIF flowing into the neck
\·
(, ' region or by the neck region becoming filled with mobile minerals. When filled by mobile minerals, it
(I /

~. 1[

t I
.(
 Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE A REA Page 87

r-=1 Quart z veins

( ~
..../"Lithological N
D Carbonate veins contaef

~ Sulfide-rich .A'" Foliation

(

(
•
G
El
carbonate veins
Gold orebodies
Metavocanoclastics '.~
Metapelites
~ Stretching

.,
t lineation

Thrust fault
(
D Carbonaceous
metapelites
+· Topog
plug
raphical
( flli:iJ Cuiaba-BIF
lil:.tl
( [ill]

(
I
l
(

l
l l v
<.
•
v
I
( ;2:.___@> Cuiaba Mine
I
~~ Level v
(

(
•
11
. ,;.
"'\-
- -<"./T
~j .

"
(
\ '~
• ~~ ,l
v
( v v v v v
(
91400 s
v v v v v
v v v v
 Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE C UIABA MINE AREA Page 89

The presence of slickensides is common on smooth or shiny fault surfaces (cf. Means 1987) of the
(
carbonaceous metasediments or at the contact between sulfide and quartz-carbonate layers. They
record a southeast to northwest direction of relative movement of the 02 faults. Even the slickenlines
(

". show a large variation of attitudes its maximum is subparallel to L, mineral lineation (Fig. 5-14 b).

( Reactivations of old faults are indicated by slickenside surfaces marked by slickenlines of different
orientations.
(
Discussion
('
The 02 deformation phase is characterized by the reactivation of o, phase structures, with

( developing a sigmoidal, coalescent thrust system, with north-west trending oblique ramps. The
( thrust system results as a consequence of a continuum of progressive deformation. Conversely to
( displacements associated with faulting during o, phase, which were developed in ductile regimes,
( 0 2 mesofaults indicate more brittle regimes. Boudinage of the Cuiaba-BIF can be explained as being
( the result of 0 2 extensional components of the D2 oblique-slip compression at high angle to the
(
layering. The differential rotation of individual boudins and adjacent layers caused the rotation of
I 'I
I boudinaged blocks with development of a en echelon arrangement (Fig . 5-16).

5.3.3 0 3 phase structures

(
0 3 structures include mesoscopic F3 open folds and small crenulations associated with a subvertical
S 3 crenulation/spaced cleavage and a lc3 north-west crenulation lineation. Faulting is recorded by
( I
centimeter -scale displacements along S3 foliation.
( I
( F3 folds are most commonly developed in the metavolcanics arid metasediments and rarely
( I observed in the BlF. They are represented by open-to-gently inclined to upright folds and small
( I crenulations which refold the earlier s,, Sm,, and Sm2 foliations as well as quartz veins (Fig. 5-18 a
to e). Fold axes show a mean orientation of 180/30 (Fig . 5-19 a).

( l l As is true for s, foliation, there is also a geometric coordination between S3 foliation and F3 folds.
( I (
Different physical expressions of S3 according to rock type is observed . S3 is parallel to the axial
plane of F3 folds (Fig. 5-18 a) and changes its morphology from the BlF to country rocks. In the
( metasediments, metavolcanoclastics and metavolcanics, S3 foliation is expressed by a zonal spaced
crenulation cleavage (cf. Gray 1977), caused by small-scale folding (crenulation) of the preexisting
( continuous s, cleavage and, in places, of the Sm, mylonitic foliation (Fig . 5-18 e). Spacing between
(
cleavage surfaces is variable (compare Fig. 5-18 c and d) and this foliation coincides with tight,
( apressed F3 fold limbs connecting microfolds with the continuous s, cleavage (Fig. 5-18 b).
Cleavage domains are planar, mica-rich and contain fabric elements subparallel to the trend of the
domains. Microlithons (i.e., relatively undef_ormed zones in a spaced foliation) lie between cleavag~
domains and contain fabric elements which have a weak or no preferred orientation. In the BIF, the
r,
~ r ' --- -- ,.- - ~ ~ .. ""'""' -... -. - ~ --.. -
_,
...... ...-.... ......... ......, ....... """' -.... -......
)
-...
'i -,
,' "

()
:::;;
Q)

(a) w "'0
a>
...,
E U1

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
en
~
_o 50cm________________ :::0
c
Pyrrhotite 8 0 =145/20 ()
~
0 1m c
~
r
(c) E w G)
m
0
r
(e) 0
G)
3 -<
0
11
~
I
m
I I Sm2 =154/35 ()
c
)>
OJ
)>-
(d) E Sm2 =138/40
w ~
Lstr2 =152/32
z
=---- m
)>
Fish-mouth-type boudin :::0
~

""0
0 5m Q)
(Q
CD

<.0
....>.
 (\
( I Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUlABA MINE AREA Page 93
(
(
1'.

(a)
(
(b)
w
- s,

( o 20cm
l.__j

,.
f

( (c) (d)
( w E
E

o 20cm
t \..___1
0 20cm
I._.J
(

I I

(e ) Quartz vein s, =60f70

(

(
w
w E

0 10cm Sm, o 5an

l I L.._j L.._j
s.

'I
Thin section 23044

t
(

,
I
\. I 0 1 em
1..
t
( D Da<!< camonale-<Juartz layers
\.' l ight quartz· cartonale l a-ters

l ~ Ouai\.Z -cart>ona l o ve<~s

l
l
(
1.._ '·

\.
l
 Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 95
r '

(
carbonaceous schists and in the metavolcanics. Locally, where lc3 is parallel to the Lm 1 mineral
('
lineation, it is difficult to distinguish these lineations in outcrop. Orientation of Lc 3 crenulation lineation
r
,-- is presented in Figure 5-19 c. As described in other parts of the Quadrilatero Ferrifero (e.g .,

(
Chemale Jr. et al. 1994) a NS and a EW trending were observed.

(
5.3.4 Fractures
(

(
Fracture planes which involve neither displacement nor filling are formed mostly in the more
r- competent BIF. Figure 5-20 presents the steographic projections of fractures measurements at the
( Cuiaba Mine region . As for the analysis of S1 foliation, the measurements are presented distinctly for
( the BIF and country rocks . Concentration of values for both the Cuiaba-BIF and country rocks occur
by NS, EW and SW-NE trends which are concordant with observed surface lineaments. There is no
r' directed correlation between fractures ocurring in the area and predicted theoretical Riedel-fractures
( which develop associated with shearing .
(

5.4 Discussion of structural analysis

5.4.1 Structural evolution

t . The structural arrangement of the region can be explained as result of heterogeneous deformation
due to the interference of old structures of the basement relief (Fig. 5-21 a). 0 1 phase was the most
( I
important deformation phase recorded in the area. Rocks were deform ed under ductile to ductile-
( ' brittle conditions in the greenschist facies. During this phase occurred the formation of the south-east
( I
(116/24-35°) plunging Cuiaba tubular fold (Fig . 5-21 b) and the penetrative foliation (8 1=149/51)
(_ I
which is axial planar to Ft folds (Fig. 5-6). S1 foliation is the most pervasive planar structure in the
c I
( \ area and was formed possibly under regional metamorphic conditions. This is indicated by the
characteristics of the D1 phase (regional metamorphism is almost invariably accompanied by
deformation. folding and generation of a pervasive planar fabric). In the mafic metavolcanics, the
greenschist-facies mineralogy including chlorite, epidote, quartz, plagioclase and actinolite shows an
alignment as result of 0 1 deformation and defines the S1 foliation. A prominent mineral lineation
(lmin 1=126/34), expressed by the preferred orientation of sericite, carbonate and sulfides, is
developed on this foliation and records a southeast-northwest tectonic transport direction.

Northwest verging, bedding and S1-foliation subparallel D1 shear zones were formed in response to
local concentration of deformation. In these high-strain zones the most conspicuous structures are a
mylonitic foliation (Sm1=135/45) and a mineral stretching lineation (Lstr 1= 122/33) (Fig . 5-10).
Alteration assemblages formed in mafic metavolcanics such as sericite, chlorite, carbonate , which
are associated with circulation of fluids in the fault planes/shear zones, are typical of greenschist
t. facies conditions of metamorphism . The amount of total strain within the shea r zones can be
l I
evaluated to have reached values of y > 8, as deduced from the strain needed to form tubular folds

( .
\._ ..
~
l "-1f=
 Chapter 5 S'fRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 97
(
f •

(
(

0 5Km
0 5 Km
( +++ ++ + ++• ~· ··~~···~·
+ + Belo Honzoote Complex+ + + + + .. · + ·
+++++++ + + +++ +.&."

Fig. 5-21 Sketch of the northeast portion of the Quadrilatero Ferrifero illustrating the evolution of region
during the deformation phases D, D2 and D3 (En event).
( (a) Region after the uplift of granite-gneiss blocks in the Trasamazonic event. Cuiaba-BIF
horizon undeformed .
(b) D, deformation phase under ductile conditions. The formation of thrusts is controlled by pre-
(
existing structural highs of the basement relief. Development of the Cuiaba tubular fold.
( (c) During the D2 deformation phase, D, faults were reactivated under ductile-brittle regimes.
( The Cuiaba-BIF was refolded, boudinaged and rotated.
(d) D3 deformation phase develops under more brittle regimes than D2.

Abb. 5-21 Skizze des nordostlichen Teils des Ouadrilatero Ferrifero mit der Entwicklung der Region wahrend
der D 1- , D2. und D3-Deformationsphasen (En-Ereignis).
(a) Region nach der Hebung der Granit-Gneiss-Bibcke wahrend der transamazonischen
Orogenese. Der Cuiaba-BIF-Horizont ist nicht deform iert.
(b) D,-Deformationsphase (duktil) mit Ausbildung der Cuiaba-Tubular-Falte. Die Entstehung
von Aufschiebungen ist durch pra-existierende strukturelle Hochs des Basement kontrolliert.
(c) Wahrend der Dr Deformationsphase wurden D,-Storungen im duktil-, bruchhaften
Obergangsbereich reaktiviert. Die Cuiaba-BIF wurde gefaltet, boudiniert und rotiert.
(d) Die D3-Deformationsphase war unter bruchaften Bedingungen aktiv.
 Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MIN E AREA Page 99

Table 5-3 Structural evolution of the the Cuiaba Mine area.

Tabelle 5-3 Tektonische Entwicklung der Region der Cuiaba Mine.

( \
j
Event En - Post-Minas Supergroup(< 2.1 Ga)

( \

Nature Compressional
( I

( ' Deformation regime Ductile to brittle regimes

( l
Tectonic Transport E-SE to W-NW

Deformation phase Main features

( I

I. o, • Cuiaba fold , a kilometer-scale south-east plunging tubular sheath

fold
(
• Penetrative, pervasive s, foliation, axial planar ofF, folds,
showing a mineral lineation.
• Development of a mylonitic foliation and a stretching lineation
subparallel to the Cuiaba fold axis in ductile shear zones
• NW-verging bedding and S, foliation subparallel thrust faults and
shear zones

JI • NE-trending, oblique-slip, sigmoidal thrust-fault/shear zone system

which envelops the Cuiaba fold. Reactivation D1 faults/shear
zones.
I I • Folding, boudinage and rotation of the Cuiaba-BIF.
• Quartz remobilization
'l
• Crenulation cleavage
• Crenulation lineation
l • Dilational dark-colour quartz-calcite filled veins.
(
{

\
( In summary, tectonic structures (fabrics) at the Cuiaba Mine area are genetically related to three

( ' deformation phases (01, 0 2, 0 3) which took place under crustal compression . The deformation
phases corresponds to a time interval during which a family of structures was generated under
( steady metamorphic conditions (greenschist facies). Deformation progresses from ductile to brittle
regimes and the structures were reactivated or reoriented during the three phases. Kinematic
( indicators such as the geometry of the movement planes of ductile shear zones, the plunge of
(. mineral stretching lineations and slickensides, S-C (C-type) fabrics, rotation of porphyroclasts, strain
( shadows porphyroblasts , record a E-SE to W-NW tectonic transport direction for all phases. As the
\ .. orientation of the stress field show a relatively constant direction during the three phases, the latter
(._
can be explained to represent phases of one progressive deformation event (En) (Table 5-3)
l (Fig. 5-21).
l

'
(
 Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 101

I
(

I
t
Uplift of granite-gneiss blocks

( (a) (b)
(
Cuiaba tubular-sheath fold

( I D Carbonaceous metapelite

E Banded iron-formation

B Mafic metavofcanics

X fold axis = 116/24-35°

I
I
I

(
(
0 2km (c)

' I
\ Fig. 5-22 Generation of the Cuiaba tubular fold. (a) Cuiaba Mine lithological sequence before the uplift of
( granite-gneiss basement blocks. (b) Progenitor of the Cuiaba tubular fold , a non-cylindrical fold,
( with anticlinal axial culmination in the Rio das Velhas Supergroup (the irregularity was nucleated
during the uplift of basement blocks which occurred after the Minas Supergroup deposition. Its
( axis is subparallel to the Cuiaba Mine area shear direction (116.)]. (c) Development of the
Cuiaba tubular fold after hinge line-subparallel shearing during the 0 1 phase
Abb. 5-22 Modell der Bildung der Cuiaba-Tubular-Falte. (a) Lithologische Folge der Cuiaba Mine vor der
Hebung des Granite-Gneiss-Basement-Blocks. (b) Nicht zylindrische Faile mit axial antiklinaler
( Hohe entstanden nach der Hebung im Rio das V elhas Grunsteingurtel {c) Entwicklung ·der
Cuiaba-Tubular-Falte durch 0,-Scherung subparallel zur Achse der Falte.
(

(. .
(

.
"-"
~ :t
.I {
 Chapter 5 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY OF THE CUIABA MINE AREA Page 103

The oldest deformation, associated with the late Archaean (2 .8-2.7 Ga) Rio das Velhas orogeny, is
characterized by strike-slip movements and a N-S-striking, subvertical dipping foliation containing a
subhorizontal mineral lineation. Such structures were not recognized in the Cuiaba area. Conversely,
the structural pattern of the study area is dominated by oblique-slip-, reverse-, thrust-faults. All
lithologies were affected by a pervasive axial planar foliation and show a prominent
mineral/stretching lineation. Early-generated structures were reactivated, folded and rotated by later
deformation phases.

The comparison of tectonic structures recognized in the Cuiaba Mine with the available structural
data of the Rio das Velhas, Minas and Espinhar;o Supergroups indicates that all these units were
affected by the same tectonism, under the same east-over-west kinematic vector (e.g. , Chemale Jr.
et al. 1994). The recorded structures are similar and show comparable orientations . This field
relationship supports the hypothesis that the En event, occurred after the Minas Supergroup
deposition. Hence, this orogeny is younger than 2.1 Ga (age of the top of the Minas Supergroup) and
corresponds either to the Paleoproterozoic Transamazonic (2 .1-1 .8 Ga) or to the Neoproterozoic
Brasiliano (0.75-0.45 Ga) orogeny. Both Proterozoic events have a compressional character and
show a ESE- WNW tectonic transport which is recorded in the Cuiaba area.

I
I
J

u
•
lf
.,
I{
 Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 105

6 GOLD MINERALIZATION

6.1 Introduction
The three main styles of greenstone-hosted gold mineralization in the Quadrilatero Ferrifero
can be ide ntified at the Cuiaba Mine. The main mineralization is stratabound, hosted by
banded iron-formations. Economic-grade gold mineralization is related to six main oreshoots
which are contained within the Cuiaba-BIF horizon (Fig. 6-1 and 6-2 ). These include the Fonte
Grande Sui, Canta Galo, Balancao, Galinheiro, Galinheiro Extensao and Serrotinho orebodies.
r. . Subordinate mineralization can be found associated with ductile shear zones, hosted by upper
mafic metavolcanics (e.g., Balancao Footwall and Galinheiro Footwall orebodies) and ductile-
brittle, shear-related, quartz veins within lower and upper mafic metavolcanics (e.g., Galinheiro
Quartzo and Viana orebodies). Furthermore, mafic metavolcanics and metapelites are loca lly
~.
mineralized at sheared contacts adjacent to the Cuiaba-BIF .

This chapter describes and discusses the mineralogical, textural and chemical characteristics
of the BIF-hosted mineralization which is the main sou rce of gold in the area. Aspects of the
ductile shear zone- and quartz vein-type mineralization are also presented in order to compare
(
I
'
I
them with the BIF-hosted mineralization . In addition, the effect of the En deformation on the

( I distribution of the different styles of gold mineralization is also discussed.

6.2 BIF-hosted mineralization

( t 6.2.1 General characteristics

l
The BIF-hosted gold orebodies th at contain economic-grade gold mineralization (> 4 ppm Au)
t represent segments of the Cuiaba-B IF which grade laterally into non-economic mineralized or
~
barren iron-formation . They consist of alternating sulfide and quartz-carbonate/chert layers
varying in thickness from a few millimeters up to one meter (Ribeiro-Rodrigues & Friedrich
1994, Ribeiro-Rodrigues et al. 1996a, 1996c). Photographs of the mineralized Cuiaba-BIF are
presented in Plate 6-1 A to J. The gold-bearing BIF ranges from dark to light colors and is, in
places, marked by definite banding or by a massive appearence. Two characteristic types of
pyrite layers can be distinguised: one dominated by very fine-grained pyrite and the other by
the presence of larger pyrite crystals. Transitions from sulfide-rich to sulfide-poor BIF is
indicated by decreasing sulfide abundances from 30-70 vol. % to less than 1 vol. %, and

t decreasing gold grades from over 60 ppm in sulfide-rich portions to values below the fire assay
( detection limit over short distances (1 to 3 meter) (Fig. 6-3 a). Barren and mineralized areas
are also delin eated by faults/shear zones or quartz veins (Fig. 6-3 b, c).

(_)
,------~...--- --....--...-~~--, ~ - -. -....
... i!f:: '
'• ' ..... .~ ( '--
.-.._, ....... .._
-...
'

r·
t • • - _. .._.. _- - . . . - -

0
::I'
tl)
'0
(i)
.,
No. 11 level 0)

N BALANCAO

Gl
0
r
Oeste 0
s:
z
m
~
r
GALINHEIRO
~
_,
0
z
GALINHEIRO
EXTENSAO

~
BIF-hosted [6} Mafic-hosted
gold orebodies t:::J
gold orebodies FONTE
0 100m GRANDE
[) Cuiaba-BIF
I Thrust fault
SUL

Fig. 6-2 Simplified geological map of the Cuiaba Mine, No. 11 level, showing the gold orebodies of both BIF-hosted and shear related styles of mineralization "'0
tl)
(explanations as in Fig. 6-1. Geology and structures after Minera93o Morro Velho S.A. and this study). c.o
(t)
Abb. 6-2 Vereinfachte geologische Karte der Cuiaba Mine. Sohle 3, mit den an BIF gebundenen und an Scherzonen gebundenen Golderzkorpern
(Erklarungen wie in Abb. 6-1. Geologie und Strukturen z.T. aus Unterlagen der Minera9ao Morro Velho SA ).
.....
0
---1
 Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 109

(-

I I

( 1

'
( I

I
l
(
l.
' I
H J

(
(

\..

( .
(

<..

l
( -..
( ··-
.,..;

( -·~·-
·"'~ .
l 4
l
\
ll
 Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 111

Orebodies show a typical pi pe-like geometry. Orebody d imensions extent to ove r 3000 meters
down-plunge, ragin g between 1 and 6 meters in th ickness and between 100 to 4000 square
meters in plan view areas. Maximum average gold grades reach up to 18 g/t Au. (Table 6-1).

Table 6-1 Plan view areas and average gold grades of the six main BIF-hosted gold orebodies of
the Cuiaba Mine. Three orebodies (Fonte Grande, Dam Domingos and Surucucu) which
were economically important until No. 4 level are also included.
Tabelle 6-1 Mittelwerte der Goldgehalte in einzelnen Abbaugebieten der sechs Haupterzkorper sowie
von drei Erzkorpern die bis zur Sohle 4 wi rtschaftlich bedeutend waren (Fonte Grande,
Dam Domingos und Surucucu). Cuiaba Mine.

Oro body Fonte Grande Sui Canta Gala Balancao Galinheiro Ga~nheiro Extensao

Area (m2) Au (glt) Aroa (ml) Au (glt ) Aroa (m2) A u (glt) Aroa (m2) Au (glt) A rea (m1) A u (glt)

Level
Surface 513 6.2
11evel 209 826
2 1evel 22 1 4.9 648 5.9 468 9.2 572 11.1
3 1evel 1160 12.0 731 8.0 968 9.6 674 12. 1
41evel 1610 13.3 523 8.7 1386 7.4 549 9.3 1155 6.8
5 1evel 2966 11.3 728 5.7 2008 8.8 317 7.2 n.c . n.c .
11 1evel 3810 17.7 1027 11.1 477 15.5 140 11.3

Oro body Serrotim o Fonte Grande Dom Domimos Surucucu

Aroa (m2) A u (gil) Aroa (ml) A u (g/t) A roa (m2) Au (g/t ) Area (m2) Au (glt)

Level
Surface
1 1evel 1182
2 1evel 1279 5.0 491 5.9
3 1evel 1192 4.9 94 8. 1 340 6.2
4 1evel n.c . 3.8 1514 4.8 398 7.2 2 19 5.4
5 1evel n.c. n.c. 1819 93 1.6 n .c .
11 1evel 305 10.6

I I
Data: Mineracao M orro Velho S. A
S= surface
-= non-econonic grade(< 4 ppm f>.J.J)
=
n.c . not calculated

( I

( I

( I 6.2.2 Gold orebodies

The Fonte G rande Sui orebody, which is situ ated in the southeastern closure of the Cuiaba-
tubular fold, constitutes the richest gold ore of the mine (Fig. 6-1 and 6-2). The orebody
J I

) l displays the largest · plan view area as well as the highest gold conten.ts. It shows a fairly
constant th ickness, betwee n 4 and 6 meters, but both the orebody plan view areas and gold
1 contents increase progressively with depth (Ta ble 6-1). The mineralized BIF is inte nsively
() I

\ ) '
•
.- ..6
 Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 113

recognition of some important chracteristics of the BIF-hosted gold ores.

The most cha racteristic feature of the gold mineralization at Cuiaba is the concordant relation
of the orebodies with the o, phase linear fabric . All ore shoots plunge southeast parallel to the
( . Lstr 1 stretching and L, intersection lineations (Fig. 6-4). This clearly indicates a syn-En age for
the gold mineralization. However, various observed ore structures are not consistent with a
syntectonic gold emplacement during the En event. Conversely, field observations suggest a
syntectonic remobilization of the BIF-hosted mineralization during the En event since the
sulfide-ore has undergone all deformation phases (0, Oz. 03) recorded in the area.

During o, phase occurred th e folding of the mineralized Cuiaba-BIF (Plate 6-2 A) as well as
hinge-zone remobilization of sulfides and gold (Plate 6-2 B). Furthermore, it is observed the
local development of pyrite-rich zones, and associated high-grade gold mineralization, along
zones of intense o, shearing (Plate 6-2 C. 0).

Gold orebody

( I

\ I Bedding (S 0 )
( .I

l I

\ . I

l I

\ I
\ I
\ I 3 Level
( I
( I 11 Level
\ I
21 Level
l \
\.
0 Cuiaba-BIF

\...
l
l
( . . Fig. 6-4 Relationship between the plunge of the gold orebodies hosted by the BIF and in the D,
l ,, phase linear fabric.
Abb. 6-4 Vehaltnisse zwischen dem Einfallen der an BIF gebundenen Golderzkorpern und
l Linearen der D,-Phase.
(
(._ ~;

(
/ .
 Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 115

~.

\.,
\., .

I I

\, I

' .•
\ JI
 Chapter 6 · GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 117

dissolved during deformation. However, these sites are barren with gold. Quartz remobilization
(Plate 6-2 H) occurred during all phases and show economic gold grades only when pyrite is
present.

Dark quartz-calcite Sulfide layer

(
: iil...atPI~ 0 50 em
(

(b)
(
0 50 em
(

(
(a)
I
(
I
(
I Sulfide layer
(
I
I
c
( 0 40cm 0 30cm

(c) (d)
{
(
( Fig. 6-6 Gold concentration related to D3 structures. (a) and (b) replacement of BIF layers
controlled by S3 foliation. Only the left side of the layers was remobilized. (c)
(
Apparent displacement of sulfide layers by S3 spaced-cleavage foliation. The
( different thickness of layers suggest removal of material during D3 phase. (d)
Preferential replacement of dark quartz-carbonate layers, adjacent to quartz
(
remobilization filling S3 spaced cleavage (Serrotinho orebody, No. 3 level, modified
( after D. S. Vtal).
\. Abb. 6-6 Goldkonzentration assoziiert mit D3-Strukturen. (a) und (b) Verdrangung von BIF-
( Bandern entlang der S3-Foliation. (c) Verschiebung der Sulfid-Lagen durch S3-
.spaced-cleavage"-Foliation. (d) Bevorzugte Verdrangung dunkler Karbonat-Quarz-
(_ Lagen neben Quarz-Remobilisationen, die die S3-.spaced-cleavage"-Foliation fUIIen
( (Serrotinho Erzkorper, Sohle 3, modiftZiert nach D. s. Vial).

\.
l
L
l
l
 Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 11 9

The Co and Ni values and Co/Ni ratios (< 8) are comparable to pyrites found in hydrothermal
deposits of magmatic, volcanogenic or sedimentary-exhalative origin (e.g., Co/Ni > 1, Loftus-
Hill & Solomon 1967; > 5-10, Bralia et al. 1979; < 5, Price 1972). The bulk of the ratios are
different to those from pyrite of sedimentary origin, which are generally characterized by Co/Ni
less than or equal to 1 and an average of 0.63 (e.g ., Loftus-Hill & Solomon 1967). Au, Ag and
' Sb were also checked in investigated sections but were not detected.

Pyrrhotite

( Pyrrhotite represents 1 to 5 vol.% of the sulfide minerals and occurs as inclusions (Plate 6-3 F)
or infilling spaces between pyrite grains as well as intergrowing with them . Individual grains are
a lso observed in the quartz-carbonate matrix. Crystals are mainly anhedral varying between 10
and 200 j.Jm in size. Observed inclusions in this sulfide are gangue minerals and pyrite.
Locally, along and adjacent to shear zones which cross cut the BIF, a second generation of
euhedral, elongated pyrrhotite crystals is the predominant sulfide (> 95 vol.%) . Pyrrhotite is
also a characteristic component in late quartz remobilization together with chlorite.

Compositions of pyrrhotite occurring in sulfide layers, in recrystallized pyrite, shear zones, and
quartz-carbonate remobilization are uniform and show no significant differences in major and
trace element contents (Appendix IV, Table 11 -11). Crystals contain 58.65 to 61 .71 wt.% Fe,
37.72 tb 40.28 wt.% S as well as up to 0.09 wt.% Co, 0.36 wt.% Ni, 0.58 wt.% As and 0.06
wt.% Cu. In most cases, Co, As and Cu contents are below detection limit. Ni shows
consistently higher abundances in quartz-ca rbonate veins (0.31 wt.% in average) and in some
samples from shear zones .

l I
Arsenopyrite
t I
Arsenopyrite is a minor phase of the ore (1 -3 vol. %) and forms euhedral to subhedral crystals
up to 500 IJm in size. Grains are chiefly included (Plate 6-3 F) or intergrown with pyrite
l I
(Plate 6-3 E). Inclusions in arsenopyrite include quartz, Fe-carbonates and chalcopyrite and
l t
pyrite. Arsenic content in arsenopyrites varies from 27.8 to 33.4 atomic percent and trace
\._ I

\. element abundances are near detection limits. Chemical composition of arsenopyrite is

l discussed later in chapter 7.

(
Chalcopyrite
l I
v Chalcopyrite is a significant minor sulfide mineral in some orebodies (e.g., Fonte Grande, up to
\.. 3 val.%) occurring mainly as inclusions in recrystallized pyrite. The crystals are anhedral , 10 to
l
\.._,
l.
.
•

~
500 j.Jm in size and contain inclusions of quartz, Fe-carbonate and gold . Co, Ni and As
contents of two analysed grains are below detection limits (Appendix IV, Table 11-11).

l
 ( I

(
Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 121
( )

( A
(

(
' .
• '""- . -
- 41
( ~ -· -~

. . -. ·-:>"-?- ~~;. :. . )
50 1-1m
}.

( .. -;:....

. '·' .
·~ ·....
(

F ~.
t . .-as. .
-
o·
E " I r ~~ .'•
..I 1 · /
~···
.. ' :.
. . ~- :,.~ .·
• .
". \ •;
.
, '
. . ., : .
\

' . ~ 6 I
. .:·-~
•. • . .._ .
-
-)
.
•
( ~- - ·..-~
. ·-.... ..·. A.u . .. .., , ··2
~ ~ ·. . . .,.,. .-<~-....·. ( ~
.. . ....
, . ~a ..
· · .. : ··· ~ .r· . .1· -4\
. - .- .. . l -~

(
I :

..~•
•
'11
\ '·. ·- • ·
'
• I
. . -.
~.. Au .......:. ·
'· .'· ..
~ .
' ~··.
"tf/·
~
• •
. ..
8An
.:-::-"..
}'':
.J .-.·
.......
:.:~\!
. \ . r . . . ·. ·. · . : ..
I
t • . . I \.. ' . ..,. . 4 - -·
( ~

~
(
; I' .,
... .
\. •. • ..!·. ·.·,_ ·~·
·-. . :.if":· .
.. ' _...
.·......
-
'zd ._____ ___.
50 1-1m

t .
H Au
I (
l .
l
.I2
l •
(._ I

( I

(._ I

Gc
\_)t
\)f
( Ji

~i
 ( \

'. Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 123

''
) Inclusions of gold were also observed in pyrrhotite and cha lcopyrite crystals and in clusions in

''
arsenopyrite were reported by Vial (1988a). In add ition, native gold may occur along grain
boundaries and infilling fractures in pyrite (Plate 6-3 H) or as free grains in the quartz-
! carbonate matrix of recrystallized ores. Gold particles display variable geometries varying from

'' rounded to ellipsoid al blebs to more stra ight or irregular forms. Dimensions of visible gold
grains reach up to 60 1-1m in diameter with arithmetic mean of 14 1-Jm (Fig. 6-7 b). Nearly 56 %

•
(

J ' of observed particles are less than 10 1-Jm in size indicating that the geometric mean (8 1-Jm)
better reflects average grain dimensions. Visible gold is preferentially associated with As-rich

'
pyrite crystals of both generations. Although higher concentrations of gold grains (Plate 6-3 F)

! and the large size are related to recrystallized, coa rse-grained pyrite, there is no obvious
•
( relationship between pyrite morphology and/or size and gold grade. Both fine-g rained and
•
(
coarse-grained pyritic ores show economic gold values .
!
( • Gangue minerals

!-
(
Gangue minerals are dominantly carbonates (20-30 val.%) and quartz (10-15 vol.%). To~the r
with pyrrhotite, arsenopyrite and chalcopyrite, they are the most common inclusions in pyrite
! crystals.
('
I
! I
Identification of carbonate by x-ray diffraction and electron microprobe analyses revealed that
t ( the bulk of the carbonate phases is siderite, ferroan dolomite and ankerite (Appendix IV,
( • t Table 11 -13). Siderite is the most abundant carbonate and occurs as fine-grained aggregate

' ~ I
between sulfide crystals . Average compositions show up to 2.42 wt .% CaO, 4.43 wt.% MnO
and 2.25 wt .% MgO substituted for FeO. Ankerite is generally intergrown with siderite or forms
) poikilitic recrystallized blasts with quartz inclusions. Chemical compositions range from typical

~
ankerites to those of ferroan dolomite. Analysed grains contain on average 25.35 to 26 .86
wt.% CaO, 15.70 to 18. 77 wt.% FeO, 1.27 to 5.2 1 wt.% MnO and 6.82 to 10.70 wt.% MgO.
) Calcite is a minor carbonate phase in the ore occurring as small grains (< 20 1-Jm) in grain
)
contact with siderite. In quartz-carbonate remobilization, secondary, coarse-gra ined (500 1-Jm)
)
( calcite is the major component. A catholuminesce study confirmed the presence of these two

)• calcite types.
(
Apart from its occurrence in the matrix of sulfide layers, quartz is the main mineral of stringers
! ..!
( ••. and remobilizations which are fairly common in all ores. As in th e quartz-carbonate and chert
) ~
layers, quartz grains of sulfide layers show a widespread polygonal arrangement with 120°
() , -~
·~
triple junctions and lack of undulose exti nction. Monazite was observed in one sample from a
)
\ shear zone as a free grain about 10 JJm in size. Trace amounts of plagioclase (albite) and

I
(
' \
rutile were identified in x-ray diffraction. Scheelite (< 3 JJm) , ilmenite and leucoxen were
(
reported as grains in the matrix from sulfide layers (Mintek 1980, Lade ira 1991 b).
i
'
)'
I

(,
(
'
(
I
(
I
( Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 125
I
(
I
(
I bearing, with pyrite enveloping the vein margins.
(
I
( Despite of some observed economic-grade gold contents related to some quartz veining , there
is no apparent consistent correlation between the distribution of veins and gold-rich zones.
I
(
I Shearing structures and static recrystallization
(
I
(- ,Durchbewegung" structures and boudinages are important textures resulting from the
' deformation of the BIF-hosted ore. ,Durchbewegt" ore is a result of intense progressive shear
I
(
I
strain in shear zones which cross-cut the ore (e.g., Marshall & Gilligan 1989). The process of
(
I ,Durchbewegung" involves the disruption, separation, milling and rotational movement of the
I incompetent carbonate-silicate matrix whithin the competent pyritic ore. Handspecimen-scale
(
I ore boudinages resu lt from layer-parallel or layer-oblique (sma ll angle) extension associated
(
, with shearing. The more competent chert layers are stretched and disrupted forming
(

(
, rhomboidal boudins (Plate 6-1 J). Boudin necks are commonly filled with quartz and pyrrhotite.
I
(

(
, Brittle deformation of pyrite is widespread and, locally, fractures are filled by galena,

I
sphalerite and gold (Plate 6-3 H). In discrete Dt shear zones, pyrite is broken into fine-grained
(
I crystals (< 5 1-1m, Plate 6-3 B, G). Shearing has imparted a massive sulfide-like aspect to these
(
I zones and was responsible for pyrite milling. The development of asymmetrical, 8-type, face-
(
I controlled pressure shadows of quartz and carbonate around pyrite porphyroblasts is also
(
I
( common.
I
(
, Evidence for static recrystallization is supported by the presence of quartz crystals in the ore
()
showing polygonal textures. Despite of intense deformation as shown by the presence of folds,
) shear zones and shear fractures, crystals are strain-free, displaying straight grain boundaries
and lack of undulose extinction or subgrains. Static recrystallization indicates that temperature
was relatively high when deformation ceased. In absence of deformation, recovery ,
)
) recrystallization and grain boundary area reduction processes continued until a minimum
internal configuration was obtained (e.g., Passchier & Trouw 1996). Textures indicating static
recrystallization of sulfide minerals were not observed.

Nucleation and growth of pyrite porphyroblasts

The common development of euhedral pyrite porphyroblasts is a striking feature of the BIF-
hosted ore. Ore textu res indicate that first generation pyrite vary from fine- to medium-grained
crysta ls which are, at least in part, contemporaneously crystallized. As proposed by Ramdohr
(1969) and Barker (1994), pyrite porphyroblast nucleation and growth seems to be controlled
by .the presence of suitable nucleation sites which contain high energy grain boundaries or
previously strained crystals . At Cuiaba, this explanation is supported by the observation that
the abundance of pyrite crystals varies inversely with the pyrite crystal size. Crystal growth
 GOLD MINERALIZATION
(
(

\.
( :

( .
( .

( I

\ I

c,
\_ I

~ I

\.)1

' tl
\. J I

( l

( ..; I

\..) t
\....J I

(J I
\.J t
l; ~
(_ ~
I •
Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 129

6.2. 7 Ore geochemistry

Chemical compositions of the BIF-hosted ore discussed below are presented in Tab les 11 -22
and 11 -23 (Appendix V) . Analytical data is grouped into three distinct groups: (1) ,typical" ore,
(2) samples of shear .zones (including massive ore, discrete shear zones), and (3) quartz
remobilization. Four analyses of mineralized portions of the mafic horizon which occur within
the Cuiaba-BIF are also presented.

( I
Samples of typical ore show a wide range of Si02 (4-50 wt.%), Fe203 (23-57 wt.%), CaO (0.4-
10 wt.%), Ti02 (0.01 -0.19 wt.%), C02 (4-26 wt.%) and S (8-43 wt.%) (Table 11 -22,
Appendix V). Variations in element abundances reflect the variable contents of sulfides, quartz
and carbonates of the samples. Since quartz-rich layers contain less Fe-carbonates and Fe-
su lfides, an excelent negative correlation exists between Fe203 and Si02 (Pearson coefficient
( I
r =-0.89) . Similarly, the presence of sericite and chlorite in the mafic horizon is responsible for
local higher concentrations of K20 (up to 2 wt.% ) and AI203 (up to 8 wt.%) in this group of
samples.

The maximum gold content of typical ore sulfide mesobands is 23 ppm, but channel sample
maps provided by the Minera9ao Morro Velho show gold grades up to 60 ppm. In places, gold
concentration reaches values over 100 ppm. Silver abundance is below 5 ppm which is in
accordance with production data of 1-3 g/t Ag . Arsenic content show a maximum of 0.74 wt.%
with an average concentration of 0.23 wt.%. The overall base metal content of the ore is low,
with values rarely exceding 100 ppm. Average abundances are 90 ppm Cu, 65 ppm Zn and 42
ppm Pb. Maximum values (310 ppm Cu, 102 ppm Zn, 148 ppm Pb) are from samples of the
Balancao and Canta Galo orebodies. Co, Ni, Sb, W mean abundances are 25 ppm, 26 ppm, 9
ppm and 5 ppm, respectively. Maximum values do not exceed 45 ppm.

Chondrite-normalized REE distributions of four analysed BlF-hosted ore samples were

compared with the average of least altered dark carbonate-quartz layer (Cb-0, Table 11 -18,
Appendix V); and samples of the mafic horizon with the average of least altered mafic
metavolcanics (Table 11 -20). The distributions display unconclusive patterns. The contents of
other trace elements are low, chiefly close to or under detection limits.

Although the bulk of major, trace and rare earth element contents of seven sheared samples
(Table 11-23) are broadly within the range of typical ore analyses, some elements display
clearly higher average and maximum values. Whereas the mean concentration of Au (12.2
ppm), Ag (< 5 ppm), Pb (56 ppm) and As (0.38 wt .%) are similar to those of typical ore, mean
values of Cu (208 ppm), Zn (160 ppm), Sb (24 ppm), Co (36 ppm) and Ni (58 ppm) are
approximately 2 to 2 .5 times higher. Significant differences in maximum values were observed
for Cu (527 ppm), Zn (507 ppm), Co (87 ppm), Ni (181 ppm), Sb (79 ppm) and W (120 ppm).
 .-.. ..,r--_ - -
WJiP ._, ....~ -
_....-... -- -- -- -- -- -- --....._ --- - --
~.... ~ ...,~,:.. ·._
...._. '- ...............
- ·- - -
~
,-...
'"- .....
..... '-.
~ - ,....

0
140 :T
140 Q)
"0
120
(a) (b) en
.,
120
en
>. 100
() >- 100
s::: Arithmethic mean= 11 .3 ppm () Arilhmethic mean= 0.46 wt.%
~ 80 c::
Cll 80
CT ::l
Cll CT
U: 60 ~ 60
u.
40
40
G)
20
20
0
r
0
0
0 3::
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55
Au (ppm)
0.5 1.5 2 2.5 z
As(wt%) m
60
30 ~
{c) I (d)
r

~
50 a
25
>- Arithmethic mean= 10.6 wt.% a
aao a a a 'b
0

0
g 40 a
o oo
Qcl a a a
z
~
0 DC
(I) 20 a a "'g ca 0 aa 'a c
aaa~a a
c
::l
~ a a00ace aa f}a a

...u.g- 30 ~
(/) 15
a a "-rtf_,.
a~aa'Doaa'ioa
"'bJ" a
a a aJ'
'baa c

io
•
~a a" "e a ... /
'Ira a.. 'b a
a a0 a a
'!.
a •
o a o a

10 'ba "a'l:l~ ...,.: a aa <D

a~dOo
0
ca a

~
o 0
10 ' a
OfZIIO f[J
5 oO CP '!,
a a a a
•a
0 0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
s (%) Au (ppm)

Fig. 6-8 Distribution and correlation of gold, sulfur and arsenic contents of channel samples (Fonte Grande Sui orebody, No.4 level). (a) Histograms of Au
and (b) As showing the
similar positively skewed distributions of these elements. (c) Broadly uniform distribution of Sup to 20 ppm, and (d) Au-S "0
Q)
<.0
plot showing the positive linear correlation up to values of 10 ppm gold (number of analyses= 374). <tl
Abb. 6-8 Darstellung der Verteilung und Korrelation von Gold-, Schwefel- und Arsengehalten von Splittproben in S~u lendiagrammen (Fonte Grande Sui
Erzkorper, Sohle 4, (a) Au, (b) As, (c) S bis 20 ppm). (d) Au-S-Diagramm ( Anzahl der Analysen= 374). _,.
w
......
 Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZAT ION Page 133

10S
Quadrilatero Ferrifero.
Cuiaba Mine, BI F-hosted ore (a)
BIF-hosted ore .--- ---
10 1 / ------.,J.... Canada.
Massive sulfide deposits
//, .....
.. ~oog> o '\
,~'
10 1 (
0 0
~...----'1- -. •• __ _____ __ _J
,:
/ / ______ '\( ___,(.
11
c.
......
.........../
•'
: r
101
-<
c.
:I
Quad rilatero Ferrifero.
unmineralized BIF
(Carbona te and oxide facies)
\ ...... \\
.
)(..<
. ...
.
Kurok

----------- .. .......... \+++/

1()1 ..:.4,······ '.'/'!('
..
'
Cuiaba Mine.
Least altered BIF

.
I

10
·~ Juan de Fuca Ridge
I
I

t I
I

-............................ ---- .. ---- .. -- ,/

Cu + Zn + Pb (ppm)
(
10 102 101 10 1 101 10 1

l 1 0 ~~--------------------------------------------~
1
,,------......
.......
' (b )
.........~

( J
1 01 -··
.... ---- ..........
. ..
1 Ol
...
0
I
I
I
I

....s: ...,..... ·..

( I
1 02 Q)

E
Canada,
Gold lode depos~s
........ ...., '

.c: Canada,
u
-~ Base metal deposits
I I 10 c
I
w
(
Enric hm ent of C u + enrich ment of Z n
!
I
i 10·1 10 1 Q2 1 Ql 10'

.I

( I Fig. 6-10 Comparison of the geochemistry of the Cuiaba Mine BIF-hosted ore to Archaean gold and
massive sulfide deposits. (a) Gold and base metals contents of mineralized and least
altered BIF samples compared wi th data of the Quadrilatero Ferrifero and other deposits of
)I
Canada (adapted from Foster 1989 and Borg 1994. Data of Quadrilatero Ferrifero after
)I Minerayao Morro Velho S. A. , Ladeira 1980a and this study). (b) Plot of enrichment of Au
versus enrichment of Cu plus enrichment of Zn of BIF-hosted gold deposits in the
l I l
Quadrilatero Ferrifero (Enrichments calculated relative to background abundances of mafic
and felsic igneous rocks. Horizontal spread reflects variation in enrichment factors relative
to normalization to mafic and felsic rocks. Background abundaces and field from Canadian
lode-gold and base metal deposits after Fyfe & Kerrich 1984) .
l I I
Abb. 6-10 Vergleich der Geochemie der an BIF gebundenen Erze der Cuiaba M ine mit
Goldlagerstatten des Archaikums und Massiv-Sulfid-Lagerstatten. (a) Gehalte v on Gold und
Obergangsm etallen der mineralisierten und wenig alterierten Cuiaba-BIF verglichen mit
Daten des Quadrilatero Ferri fero und anderen kanadischen Lagerstatten (modifiziert nach
Foster 1989 und Borg 1994). (b) Au-Anreicherung gegen Cu- und Zn-Anreicherung der an
BI F gebundenen Erze des Quadrilatero Ferrifero (Anreicherung in Bezug auf Background-
Gehalte von mafischen und felsischen Gesteine nach Fyfe & Kerrich 1984).

(
 Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 135

6.3 Shear-zone, mafic-hosted mineralization

The shear zone style mineralization consists of disseminated sulfides occurring in zones of
intense shea ring within the mafic metavolcanics and metasediments (Plate 6-5 A to H). Shear
zones are ductile or ductile-brittle, mostly bedding subparallel and show a anastomotic pattern.
( . Apart from the common occurrence of this type of gold mineralization near the mineralized
(
Cu iaba-BIF, economic-g rade small gold orebodies are represented by the Balancao Footwall

(
and Galinheiro Footwall ore bodies (Fig. 6-1 ). Min eralization is hosted by upper mafic
( metavolcanics and gold is associated with sulfides which occur along discrete (0.2 to 1 mm)
( . shear zones together with sericite or aro und quartz stringers. Whereas the sheared portions of
these rocks are sulfidized and, therefore, mineralized (Fig. 6-11), weakly sulfidized areas
( i
display lower gold contents (Fig. 6-12). As in the BIF-hosted mineralization, pyrite is the most
( I

( .
( I
( I
abundant sulfide (> 80 vol. %). Pyrrhotite (up to 20 vol. %), sphalerite (5 vol.%) and chalcopyrite
(3.5 vol. %) occur interg rown with pyrite. Minor su lfide phases are arsenopyrite and galena.
Mineral chemistry of major sulfid es show similar compositions to those of the BIF-hosted gold
mineralization (Table 11 -14 , Appendix IV). Trace element concentrations of pyrite, pyrrhotite,

( I chalcopyrite are ch iefly close or below detection limits. Maximum contents of As in pyrite (1.18
wt.%) occur in crystals which contain gold inclusions. Whereas Co values are comparable to
those of pyrite and pyrrhotite from the BIF-hosted mineralization, average Ni contents are
(
slightly higher. Chalcopyrite compositions are similar to th e BIF-hosted ores. Gangu e minerals
include carbonates (Mg-rich ankerites, Table 11 -15, Appendix IV), chlorite, plaglioclase and
t
sericite. Few observed gold grains occur in fractures of pyrite. Gold contents in highly
t
sulfidized areas reach 20 to 30 ppm and av erage grades vary between 4 and 6 ppm

(
'(
~
(Fig. 6-12).
Shear-related quartz vein-type deposits are associated with quartz and/or carbonate
( ~

remobilizations within metavolcanics. Economic-grade mineralization is represented by the

(
Viana and the Galinheiro Quartzo orebod ies (Fig. 6-1). The present-day inaccessable Viana
(
orebody constitutes the former Viana Mine which w as discovered in 1899 and exploited until
( ;-..

I ( I
the late 40s. Past production amounts to over 1 t of gold and gold grades vary from 4 to 20 g/t

l (Mathias 1964). The orebody consists of two parallel major quartz vein s contained within a

l northeast trend ing, 40-50° south east dipping sigmoidal shear zones (Fig. 6-1 and 6- 13). At a
mine-scale, major veins are composed of seve ral interconnected quartz veins with alteration
l. haloes and disseminated sulfides at the contact. Ave rage thickness of the ore varies from 0.3
t I
to 0.6 meters showing a maximum of 1.8 meters in folded areas (Vieira 1991a). The
l.)
Galinheiro Quartzo orebody was mined out until. No . 4 level and has similar characteristics to
\...J
the Viana. Mineralization is associated to milky and smoky quartz vein s related to she ar zones
lJ
lJ
l'
(.__I
( .
,'
Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 137

8
,
1

r
)

c 0 BIF I
I
Fg
1
(
,
,
(
,
, I

,
( ,'

(
,
(
,
(
I
\
I
(
I

~
1

~
I

',,
\ --
(,

\ ) ::.
(
. )

l,
( )
'
(. )

l
(
 Chapter 6 · GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 139

ppm Au
(a)
. . . .
. . . . . .
15-30
. . . ~. . ifJ .
. . . . . . . . . . .~
.
. .
I
J
:····-,-~-·· ··;·· ··:
' -
: j~/
1-6
~ Mylonitic foliation

.. .. ........... ·· ······ ~
'.

<1
0 50 em
1 I

(b) .
I
. ~_·.
.·v-. 0 .
I
I
Mylonitic foliation ·~. .
.
I
I '

I
lI .I
I I I
. . ..
I ,
( I

• .. ...
. ..
(
I
..
( I 0 15 em
I
(
I
( )

( • ~
I
Smoky quartz ~ Quartz-carbonate vein
(

(
I D Disseminated pyrite D Altered mafic metavolcanic (X2)
I
{
I
(
,_
{
J Fig. 6-12 (a) Sketch of a cross-section showing the association of high-grade gold
( I
I mineralization with sulfide-rich portions in the mafic metavolcanics. (b) Detail of (a)
t
(
, showing the sulfidation along the mylonitic foliation and around shear-related quartz
remobilization (tension gashes) (Galinheiro Footwall orebody, No. 5 level).
I Abb. 6-12 (a) Skizze eines UntertageaufschiOsses der Goldreichen Sulfidmineralisation in
( )
I mafischen Vulkaniten. (b) Detail mit darstellung von Sulfidisierung entlang der
( mylonitischen Foliation _und urn Quarz-Remobilisationen (tension gashes). (Galinheiro
I Footwall Erzkorper. Sohle 5).
( J

{ )
,' J

I
(
, I i
--
( ~
I
(
 1 I
!
I
Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 141

100

····•····· ... ....

Q)
.....
·;::
'"0
c
0

-
..c
<..> 10
Q)
a.
E • • .. • • Average least altered
ro mafiC melavocantcs (67 -50)
(/)
-27X2(54)
-52X2(79)
-6-48X2(19)
(a)
1
La Ce Nd Sm Eu Tb Yb Lu

1000 .---------------------------------------~

l Q)
......
·c
'"0
c 100
0

-
..c
<..>
Q)
a.
E ....
ro
(/) 10
l
1.. • .. + . Average of least altered
metasediments (51-55)
( (b) -- 2 1 Fg (21)
l
1 ~~------~----~~-+------+---------------~---J
{ I La Ce Nd Sm Eu Tb Yb Lu
\
l
l
Fig. 6-14 Chondrite-normalized REE patterns of the shear-related, (a) mafic-hosted and (b)
l sediment-hosted mineralizations compared with averages of least altered samples (the
l I pattern s of the ore are similar to the least altered samples. Chondrite abundaces after
Evenson et al. 1978, NASC compositions after Gromet et al. 1984 and Haskin et al.
\. I
1968).
l Abb. 6-14 Vergleich chondritnormi erter SEE-Muster der an Scherzonen gebunden Mineralisation
l I mit Mittelwerten der wenig alterierten Gesteine: (a) mafische Vulkanite (b) Sedimente.
(Chondrit-Zusammensetzung nach Evenson et al. 1978, NASC-Z usammensetzung nach
\. )
Gromet et al. 1984 und Haskin et al. 1968).
l I

l '
\

--
 r I

I
Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 143

Table 6-3 Average of chemical compositions of gold grains of both BIF- and mafic-hosted ore of
the Cuiaba Mine.
Tabelle 6-3 Chemische Zusammensetzung von Goldkornern (Mittelwerte) der an BIF gebundenen
und an mafische Vulkanite gebundenen Erze der Cuiaba Mine.

Au~oc.ation Or <>body Layer n Weight ~rcent Au lAg

Section Au Ag Cu Fe To Sb Bi As Hg IIi Co Total
Detection limit 0.20 0.15 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0 .08 0.05 0.05 0.05

Blf·HOSTED ORE
(1) Inclusions
25925 FGS RS 4 85.02 14.26 0.02 0 .31 0.08 0.00 0.17 0.00 1.09 100.62 6.3
25926 FGS FS 5 81 .41 15.84 0.00 2.14 0.18 0.13 0.00 0.11 0.00 0.02 0.00 99.83 5.1
25927 FGS FS 5 80.87 18.27 0.01 0.90 0.24 0.15 0.20 0.27 0.00 0.02 0.00 100.93 4.4
23169 FGS sz 7 83.42 15.23 0.01 1.17 0.22 0.13 0.34 100.52 5.5
25929 8 RS 1 88.55 9.51 0.05 0.57 0.19 0.19 0.00 99.95 9.3
25930 8 RS 7 89.16 10.37 0.03 0.65 0.18 0.15 0.00 0 .13 0 .00 0.02 0.01 100.69 8.6
25932 8 FS 8 87.09 11 .09 0.01 1.21 0.12 0. 13 0.25 0.08 0.00 99.78 8.05
23027 s FS 10 85.12 13.74 0.01 1.15 0.21 0.13 0.00 0.21 0 .00 0.02 0.00 100.58 6.3
23036 CG RS 14 92.46 5.60 0.02 0.85 0.21 0.14 0.00 0.11 0.00 0.02 0.01 99.41 16.9
23037 CG RS 9 86.94 11 .72 0.01 1.27 0.23 0.13 0. 16 100.46 7.6
23040 CG RS 3 85.36 13.92 0.01 0.80 0.23 0.13 0.10 100.55 6.2
23041 CG RS 3 89.30 10.58 0.02 0.53 0 .17 0.16 0.10 100.87 8.4
23175 CG FS 3 77.83 19.45 0.02 0.58 0.28 0.14 0.07 98.37 4.0
23171 DO MS 5 84 .16 14.87 0.00 0.19 0.21 0.13 0.09 99.65 5.7
(2) Gra in boundarynracturos
25925 FGS s 6 81 .54 14.97 0 .01 0.81 0.09 0.00 0.03 0.02 1.54 99.25 5.5
25926 FGS s 1 80.92 16.29 0.00 1.26 0 .17 0. 13 0.00 0.12 0 .00 0.03 0.00 98.92 5.0
25933 8 1 78.49 16.46 0.00 3.16 0.08 0.14 0.32 0.14 0.00 0.01 0.00 98.80 4.8
(3) Fr~• grains
25936 CG 82.42 12.55 0.00 1.14 0.00 0.01 0.01 99.96 6.6

MAFIC·HOSTEO ORE
(4) Cul•b.i·Bif mafic love I
ln<.lu!.IOOS

25922 FGS RS 16 79.75 17.97 0.01 2.04 0.20 0.12 0.16 0.23 0.00 0.02 0.01 100.51 4.7
I Gnrn b<>.Jnoary

I
I
I
25922
Ft.octure
25922
(5) Country rocks
lnc.lu~ons
FGS

FGS
RS

RS
5

3
78.61 19.08 0.01

76.36 22.43 0.00

1.40

1.45
0.19

0.25
0.11

0.16
0.21

0.00
0.13

0.19
0 .00

0.00
0.01

0.02
0.01

0.00
99.74

100.87
4.2

3.4

25935 8 RS 2 82.64 14.87 0 .00 2.60 0.20 0. 12 0.13 100.55 5.6

~ 23148 BF RS 89.13 5.65 0.03 2. 28 0. 19 0. 14 0.00 0.56 0.00 0.03 0.02 98.03 15.8
I

\. I
TOTAL M EAN Mean 121 84.42 13.78 0.01 1.19 0.19 0.12 0.09 0 .16 0.17 0.02 0.01 100.14 7.3
~ J Max 121 95.56 24.43 0.07 4.92 0.34 0.21 0.51 1.01 2.40 0.07 0.03 103.04 19.2
I
Min 121 73.58 4.92 0.00 0.07 0.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 97.55 3.0
lI
l . -
n= number of analyses
Layer:
Or <>body:

l 8 = Balancao
FS= Sulfide layer
' RS= Recrystalliled sulfide layweer BF = Balancao Footvmll
\ SZ= Shear zone CG= Canta Galo
MS= Massive sulfide·like DO= dom Domingos
\· FGS= Fonte Grande Sui
..1

\
( I
/
 i'
..--
(
Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 145
(

( Table 6-4 Range and average of gold fineness values for the major gold deposit
classes (after Morri son et al. 1991 ).
Tabelle 6-4 Variation und Mittelwert der ,Gold Fineness" fOr die
( Hauptgoldlagerstattenklassen (nach Morrison et al. 1991).
(
Deposit class Gold Fineness
(
Average Range
(

(
Archaean
( (including Witwatersrand)
940 780-1000
( Slate Belt 920 800-1000
(
Plutonic 825 650-970
(
Volca nogenic 700-1000 650-1000
(
Porphyry 65 0-850 520-870
(
Epithermal 440-1000 0-1000
(

DEPOS IT Range and average of gold fineness REFERENCES

~ --·- - - ~------ · . .. - ·- · .
'
751 860 951
( )
Cuiaba Ribeiro-Rodrigues (this study)
(QF, Brazil) (n= 123).

:' 82 1 870 938

Sao Bento Ribeiro-Rodrigues (this study)
(QF, Braz il) (n= 39).
(
866 ':
\
802 839
Ladeira ( 1988)
( Morro Velho (n= 13).
(QF, Braz il)
'
823 :903 956 Ribeiro-Rodrigues (thiS s tudy)
( I Pari Abreu (1995). (n= 86).
(Q F,Brazil)
( I
853 866 :87 0
Mt. Morgans -. Vielreiche r et al. ( 1994)
( W Australia) (n= 28).

( 800 900
( Fig. 6-16 Average and range of gold fineness of selected Archaean BIF-hosted deposits of
the Quadrilatero Ferrifero, Brazil (Cuiaba, Sao Bento, Morro Velho, Pari) and
Western Australia (Mt. Morgans) (Data from Vielreicher et al. 1994), Abreu
1995), Ribeiro-Rodrigues et al., this study . Microprobe analyses from Sao Bento
Mine and Pari Mine by A. Germann, RWTH Aachen, Germany. n= number of
analyses).
( I
Abb. 6-16 Mittelwerte und Variationsbreite der Goldfeinheit ausgewahlter an BIF
( gebundener Lagerstatten des Quadrilatero Ferrifero, Brasilien (Cuiaba, Sao
Bento, Morro Velho, Pari) und W est-Australien (Mt. Morgans) (Oaten nach
Vielreicher et al. 1994, Abreu 1995, Ribeiro-Rbdrigues, diese Arbeit.
( )
Mikrosondenanalysen der Sao Bento und Pari Minen· v on A. Germann, RWTH
( ) Aachen. n= Anzahl der Analysen).
( )

l )
\. _)

()
 (
r Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION
Page 147

Depth (m)
1034 -
PC-44
( Cuiaba Mine - 17 Level
xs Depth = ·138m
·r
(

100

(
200m Depth (m)

-3 Gold mineralization
Rock Interval (m) Au (ppm)

xs (1)
Fg
X2
(1)
(2)
0.9 2. 0
2.1 0.9
(2) Mhax {3) 2.8 1.5
( (3)
X2 {4) 0.5 1.4
Fg {5) 0.3 0.8
Ore {6) 0.8
(
. 16.5

...
BIF {7) 2.5 0.9
X2 {8) 7.2 0.8
(
. Fg
Ore (9) 1.7 5.5

...
X2 (10) 0.6 4.2
Ore (11 ) 7. 1 12.1
. X2 Fg

...
(
X2 (4)
xs Fg BIF (1 2) 0.8 1. 3
(
.
I
(5)
i Fg (1 3)
... Ore 0.5 8.6
148- (6)
I X1
.
'
....
BIF
Ore
X2
(7)
(9J
(1 )
Sea

..
level \ l Ore ( 11)

I - 3 ==
X2
X2

-65 - Depth (m)

- 92 -
-·· -··
-·
.. ..
- 120 -
-·· ( 12)

~
~~~~g: Fg
E Fg
(1 3)

( Mba
-267 BIF
(
- 301 Fg X2
. 301 - 1 - --t
..................................
.......... . . .... [ 0
X1
( ................
........
- 407- ·· . ... . . . ......
( ...... . ........
[ 20m
(

( '
 Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 149

I '
(

3: 913&0 s

( Carbonaceous
metapelites
~
;;
J Lithological
contact
BIF Ef:l Topographical
plug
Mafic
( .
metavolcanics
\~.o gold grade (ppm)

(
.::::: Galery (11 level)

(_
91390 s

(
N
v

I I

v
0 5m
( v

(
Fig. 6-19 Weakly sulfidized portion of the Cuiaba-BIF showing non-economic gold grades (Canta
(
Gale orebody, No. 11 level. Modified after Minerayao Morro Velho S.A.).
Abb. 6-19 Teil der Cuiaba-BIF mit geringer SulfidfOhrung und geringen , nicht wirtschaftlichen
Goldgehalte (Canta Gale Erzkorper, Sohle 11. Modifiziert nach Minera9ao Morro Velho
S.A.).

(
Structural control
(

As observed in other greenstone-hosted gold deposits of the Quadrilatero Ferrlfero

(Table 3-7), the orebodies display a strong structural control. The most prominent feature of
(
the ore shoots is their consistent down-plunge continuity (Fig. 6-20 a). Down-plunge
dimensions are significantly greater than both strike and wide dimensions. The plunge of the
orebodies is parallel to both the stretching lineation and to the intersection lineation between
bedding (So) and S, foliation . This corresponds to the regional tectonic transport of the En
( event. Although the orebodies are contained within the Cuiaba-BIF horizon, they are oblique to
( the down-dip of the BIF (Fig. 6-20 b).
(

(
 Chapter 6 GOLD MINERALIZATION Page 151

r o n a more loca l scale, structural control is evidenced by the close association between the
intensity of mineralization and intensity of shearing. The development of pyrite-rich zones in
the BIF. and associated gold mineralization, correspond s to zones of intense o, and D2
shea ring. Sulfid e and gold remobilization occurs also in fold hinge zones. Furthermore, the ore
shoots are locally located at intersections between faults/shear zones and th e BIF.
( I

Competency contrasts between distinct lithologies have also a significan t contro l on

deformation and gold deposition. T he difference in rh eological properties have controlled the
emplace ment of faults/shear zones between lithological contacts of th e Cuiaba-B IF and
co untry rocks . These portions are commonly sulfidized and show economic grades of gold.
Also iron poor lithologies such as the metapelites (X 1) and carbonaceous metapelites are
r ,
mineralized in discrete shear zones at the contact with the BIF.

t • The deformation of the Cuiaba-BIF was also controlled by primary differences in composition.
Displacements and reactivation s are ofte n observed in the more banded portions of the bed
along bedding. The more cherty and less laminated upper portion of the Cuiaba-BIF horizon is
weak mineralized due to both iron-po or characteristics and the absence of primary
discontinuities. In addition, th e less competent carbo naceous metapelites which envelop the
Cui aba-BIF concentrate shearing protecting the more competent iron-formation f rom pinch-
r· and-swell and boudinage.
(

(
(

('

{
 Chapter 7 NATURE OF FLU IDS, TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITION OF GOLD Page 153

7 NATURE OF FLUI DS , TRANSPORT AND DEPOS ITION OF GOLD

This chapter add resses the characteri stics of the mineralizing fluid s at th e Cuiaba Min e. The
relative timing of gold mineralization and related hydrothermal alteration to deformation and
metamorphism are also discussed.

The mineralogical and gen etic chara cteristics of th e BIF-hosted gold mineralization combined
with th e extensive dynamic and static recrystallization of the Cuiaba ore precludes a safe fluid
inclusion study in th e area. As fluid inclusions are, thu s, likely to yield ambiguous resu lts and
probably do not represen t the original mineralizing fluid compositions , th e nature of fluid s,
transport co nditions and deposition of gold should be estimated from chemical changes
involved during hydrothermal alteration, studies of su lfides and stable isotopes investigations.
(

7.1 Gold mineralization and wallrock alteration

The investigation of patterns and processes involved during hydrothermal alteration has both
practical value for exploration purposes and for the understanding of th e genesis and th e
nature of the mineralizing fluid s. Since the resulting alteration assemblages are results of the
interaction of fluids and the original lithology, the evaluation of alteration minera l assemblages
combined with mass balance ca lculations has been utilized by several workers to reconstruct
fluid compositions (e.g .. Neall 1987, Nea ll & Phillips 1987).

This section prese nts the mineralogical and geochemical variations of mine-scale alteration for
the Cui aba-B IF which is directly re lated to eco nomic-g rade gold mineralization. In ad dition. the
alteration of th e Cuiaba-BIF country rocks during the En event is also discussed .

7.1.1 Alteration of the Cuiaba-BIF

Mineralogical changes during BIF sulfidation

The mineral assemblage in the least alte red Cuiaba-BIF consists of (1) siderite, ankerite.
quartz in the dark carbonate-quartz layers, (2) a nkerite, ca lcite, quartz in the lig ht quartz-
i
ca rbonate laye rs and (3) quartz with mino r Fe-carbonates in chert layers (Table 7-1).
I
I
Carbonaceous matter occurs in form of a very fin e-grained stringers (up to 0.7 wt.%) resulting
I
I
in the dark colouring of the dark layers. With respect to the BIF ore, replacement textures

I :
indicate that alteration of these rocks is restricted to sulfida tion processes (Plate 6-4 ). The
sulfide layers are the result of sulfidation involving replacement of Fe-carbonates (siderite and
ankerite) by sulfides. The typica l alteration assemblage is pyrite + carbonate + pyrrh otite ±

arsenopyrite ± chalcopyrite ± sphalerite ± galena .

 Chapter 7 NATURE OF FLUIDS, TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITION OF GOLD Page 155

the occurre nce of muscovite is relatively common in late quartz remobilization s and filled
shear fractures. Therefore. variations of th ese elements cou ld result in erroneous volume
factors and consequently in miscalculations of chemical changes .

Chemical changes during BIF s ulfidation

(

Chemical chang es that occurred during su lfidation of the Cuiaba-BIF were determined utilizing
( I
the isocon method of Grant (1986) with suggestion s of Baumgartner & Olsen (1995). This
( .
method is a simple graphical aproach using a rearranged form of the equations proposed by
Gresens (1967) to eva lu ate the amount of material added to or subtracted from a sample
during metasomatism. A representative ore sample of the Cuiaba Mine was investigated to
( I

determine element changes during sulfidation processes (Fig. 7-1 a). This sample contains the

( '
( I
different layers which represent th e comp ositional variations of the Cuiaba-BIF. Chemical
gains and lo sses were established from sample A (24-7 , Table 11 -22, Appendix V) . a sulfide
layer, rela tive to sample B (24-1, Table 11-18). a dark carbonate-quartz laye r which wa s
assumed as the least-a ltered sample (see sulfur and gold contents).

Chemical changes are acompa ni ed by a cha ng e of dark to ligh color reflecting th e

( . consumption of carbonaceous matter. Assuming constant volume, the best-fit isoco n yield s a
(
slope of 1.067, which corresponds to a mass cha ng e of - 6. 7 % relative to conce ntration prior
\ '
alteration (Fig . 7-1 b). Sulfidation involves remarkable add ition of S and Au (5224 and 475
~
grams per 100 grams of material, respectively) , increases of CaO, As, Cu, and smaller
\.;
increase of Pb (Fig . 7-1 c, d). Organic carbo n is depleted. Consid ering analytica l uncertaintes
\
other elements have been relatively immobile . Added elements were consumed in forming
\
~ / sulfides {S , As, Pb, Cu), especia lly pyrite, pyrrhotite, arsenopyrite and chalcopyrite , native gold

\ ' (Au, Ag) and carbo nates (CaO).

<.. )

1._ •
Il Chemical changes of ave rage compositions of both th e typical and sheared BIF-hosted ores
i' relatively to least altered dark ca rbonate-quartz layers were also investigated. Variations are
( ~
iI
( '
; similar to sample 24, involving increases of Au, S , As and minor increases of Cu and Sb. Zn

"- /
and Pb are enriched in th e shea red ore. Dep leted elements in both ore types are COz and
t.. ) MnO.
\.. /

Gold prec ipitation during BIF sulfidation

'
(,__, Ore textures and mass balance calculations indicate that the main chemical reaction involved
t.. the interaction between a su lfur-rich hydrothermal fluid and the Fe-rich BIF. BIF sulfidation as
\ an efficient mechanism for gold precipitation at Gui aba is supported by the close association
( .t
between iron-formation , occurrence of sulfides and gold grade: (1) the Fe-richer dark BIF
l
\_, layers are preferentially enriched in sulfides and gold th an adjacent Fe-poor, si lica-rich light

l
\.__.~

(_~
 Chapter 7 NATURE OF FLUIDS, TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITION OF GOLD Page 157

.'Ji
( --
(

(
(a)

10000
+AU (ppb)

1000

0
,_
.!l

~
.. 100
Zn
"l Constant volume isocon Cu
" slope"'1.067 • Pb • Co
l
'i
N
10 '
As
+
~No
+ Cb,FeO
0
11.
s CaO
s.o, ZI
l E
.!
•la•~b
en
l.- 0 Sc
Sm+ •
l Yb •
l 0.1
..
P,O,
lu • +C.....
AJ,O,

'- (b)
0.01
l 0.01 0.1 10 100

C A (sampe 24- 1. darl< ca't>onatc-quart.z layet)

l..
\._ Trace elements

'- . Major clements

Sample
G
A
3.56
B
Mass change
3.34
\
Sample A 8 (ppm) (ppm) (%) (g/10" g)
G 3.56 3.34 Mass change
Au 0.011 5.58 47500 5.2
l (wt. %) (wt. %) (%) (gi iOOg) Ni 16 23 34.9 5.6
\ Si01 Co 53 41 -27.4 - 14.5
15.24 15.26 -6. 1 ·0.9
AI,0 1 Cu <20 42 97 19.4
\.,_, 0.22 0,095 ·59. 9 ·0. 1 Pb 15 26 62.6 9.4
FeO 45,69 40,45 - 16.9 -7.7
Zn
\. .· CaO 0.66 4.91 603 4.0
As
68 74 2. 1 1.4
P10) 2 14 557 I I. I
0.02 0.07 208 0.05
\ CO, Sb I 3.2 1401 2.8
33.57 26.06 ·27.2 -9. 1
Zr 22
'- ' c 0.38 0.09 -78. 1 -0.3
16 -3 1.8 -7.0
(c) s 0.0 1 8.83 80.600 8.3 (d)
La 0,9 3 213 1.9
Ce 4 8 87.6 3.5
1...

\.
(
....--
( I Chapter 7 NATURE OF FLUIDS, TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITION OF GOLD Page 159
(

( '

('
sw 0 0 0 0 NE
(
0 0
0
(

( ....
······

(
'
~Ocm------
(

jooj Quartz
D Carbonate
zone ~
Sulfide
zone
( Sericite
zone D Chlorite
zone

(
Fig. 7-2 Sketch of cross-section showing the alteration zonation related to D1 shear-related quartz
( veins. The width of the vein is unknown (Viana orebody, sketch after photograph from F.
( W . R. Vieira).
( Abb. 7-2 Alterationszonierung assoziiert mit D1 -0uarzgangen in mafischen Vulkaniten
(Untertageaufschlu(l,, Viana Erzkorper. Skizze nach der Photographie von F. W . R.
( Vieira).
(

(
(

the sericite zone. Whereas the sericite zone is easily recognizable, the ca rbonate and chlorite
zones are less apparent. The alteration zo ning is characterized by changes in mineral
abundance and in minera l assemblages relatively to the least altered mafic metavolca nics
(Figure 7-3). Alteration was contemporaneous with progressive deformation during the En
event and is spatially re lated to stru ctural features, more specifically to the proximity to D,
\ .
( faults and/or shea r zones. The thickness of alteration zones differs from area to area and
ranges from 0.1 to 2 meter in the sulfide zo ne, 1 to 15 meter in the sericite zone, 1 to 20 meter
in the carbonate zone and 15 to 100 meter in the chlorite zone.

Figure 7-4 illustrates the z~ni n g, at No. 5 leve l. In this cross-section, a su lfidatiQn zone is not
developed. Major lithologica l variation s correspond broadly to changes in modal ab und ances
of chlorite, ca rbonate, se ricite, quartz , zoisite/clinozoisite and sulfides due to mainly
 Chapter 7 NATURE OF FLU IDS. TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITION OF GOLD Page 161

w Carbonaceous CROSS-SECT ION

E
metapelite

( 0 0 0
sample 39 sample 38 ·. sample 37
( 0 10 m

BIF sericite carbonate chlorite Least altered

zone zone zone mafic metavolcanic
(
Chlorite
(
Calcite
Sericite
Epidote
(
Quartz
Plagioclase
( Sulfide

Calcite

\.

Shatt-O
PLAN-VIEW
~~~C:~s / (
' ,
t N ~~

·- -·c l
- · .<'
---·
( _____ _______ __ s_~-~r--~-~-------- - -----·-------------------~~7-~e 37 \ _) / . -~
····· ··t-········--·········--···------------·· · ··· ···1·--··········------- -------·_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_·_·_·_·_·_·_·_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-.~----------- ·~ ~- - =- ·. --
(
sample 40 sample 38 I F~abaM<ne
( V i~vel o 200m

(
(

\
Fig. 7-4 Skech of cross-section along the access galery, No.5 level, showing the alteration
zonation in the upper mafic metavolcanics (Fonte Grande orebody, No. 5 level).
Abb. 7-4 Alterationszonierung der oberen mafischen Metavulkanite zeigt (Skizze eines
Untertageaufschlusses, Fonte Grande Erzkorper, Sohle 5).

\..
( se ricite. Typical paragenesis includes chlorite, calcite, sericite, quartz and sulfide. This zone is
an area of K2 0 addition ca using the change from a chlorite-ca lcite-bea ring metavolcanic to
sericite-bearing schist.

The sulfidation zone represe nts th e economic gold zo nes within th e metavolcanics and is
characte rized by increase of pyrite content with respect to the se ricite zo ne (up to 20 wt.%) .
Pyritization ih th e mafic metavolcanics is co nfined to sheared areas, specifically to discrete,
millimeter-scale ductile shear zones (Fig. 6-11 ). Pyrite is acompan ied by se ricite, chlorite ,
ca lcite, quartz, minor K-feldspar and native gold.
 ~
( (
Chapter 7 NATURE OF FLUIDS, TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITIO N OF GOLD Page 163

Gold deposition possibly occurred due to coupled reactions of the type (cf. Phillips & Groves

( 1984):

chlorite pyrite

(
(
(
Pyrite has formed by the sulfidation of ferrom ag nesian phases (e.g., chlorite) present in the
(
( mafic volcanics. Similarly to the sulfidation of the BIF, the association of gold and sulfides

( '
indicate gold precipitation due to destabilization of reduced sulfur complexes.

Chemical changes during su lfidation were investiga ted for ore samples relatively to the lea st
altered mafic metavolcanics (sample 67). Least altered sample was chosen using the following
criteria: low sulfur contents, relative distance to shear zone/mineralized areas and absence of
l
I

(. quartz-carbo nate stringers or remobilizations. Gain and loss of components were calculated
( assuming that th e volume change is a facto r common to the behavior of all components. For

l ' constant volume, sulfid ation is chemica lly exp ressed by addition of Au, S, C0 2 , K 20, Corganic.
\ Sb, As and Ni.

7.1.3 Alteration of clastic metase diments

The loca l alteration of the clastic metasediments occurs related to shea r zones, normally at th e
contact with the mineralized Cu iaba-BIF. Associated with the sulfidation of th e metapelites
(X 1), sulfides (pyrite and pyrrotite) occur disseminated in the rock along the planes of th e
mylonitic foliation. The black carbonaceous metapelites (Fg) exhibits locally a typical alteration
feature which is characterized by up to one centimenter thick white-yellow ca rbonate
(ankerite)-sulfide (pyrite) layers parallel to the mylonitic foliation or ocurring as veinlet arrays
(Plate 6-5 C, D). The alteration style is easily recognizable due to the obvious colour change in
these rocks which show norma lly a black co lor. Gold values in th e altered zo nes exte nd s from
below detection limits up to 12 ppm. A characteristic feature associated with alteration of th e

~ /
ca rbonaceo us metapelites is th e extreme high increase of mass which reaches 80 %.
I

\.I Mechan ism of sulfid ation and associated gold mineralization is broadly similar to alteration in
\.
I
mafic ro cks and in the BIF. Altho ugh less favourable for sulfidation than th e mafic volcanics
and th e BIF, the preferentially focussed fluid flow in shear zones within these rocks created
conditions of alteration. As tb e metapelites contain Fe-ca rbonate and chlorite, gol9 deposition
occurred associated of sulfid ation of these Fe-bearing minerals.
 Chapter 7 NAT URE OF FLUI DS, TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITION OF GOLD Page 165

Table 7-4 Summary of textures and chemical composi tions of arsenopyrite of the BIF-hosted ore at
the Cuiaba Mine.
t'
Tabelle 7-4 Auftreten und chemische Zusammensetzung der Arsenopyrite aus dem an BIF
(
gebundenen Erze der Cuiaba Mine.

sample No. Orebody Layer Section Arsenopyrite n Range of at.% As Calculated tem~rature
location Min Max Average Min Max Average
(

Typical ora
3 FGS s PS 25925 Cpy 82 30.3 33.4 31.7 320 520 410
Cpy/CAu 11 31 .7 33.0 32.4 410 490 455
lpy 3 31.8 31 .9 31 .8 410 420 415

20 CG s PTS 23036 Cpy 6 31 .7 33.0 32.5 405 490 460

lpy 10 32.1 32.9 32.5 435 485 460

Recrystallized ora
12 B RS PS 25937 Matrix 13 30.5 32.5 31.6 330 460 400
Cpy 23 29.9 32.1 31.1 <300 430 370
lpy 12 29.5 31.9 31.4 <300 420 350

7 B RS PS 25930 lpy 2 30.8 30.8 30.8 350 350 350

23 CG RS PTS 23040 lpy 2 30.0 30.2 30. 1 <300 310 305

i
I
I
I
32 DO MS PTS 2317 1 lpy 29.2 <300

Shear zone

I
!I
I
2 FGS RS PS 25922 Cpy
Isph
lpy
lpo
4
6
6
5
31.1
31.0
30.6
29.8
32.1
32.0
31.6
30.9
31.5
31.5
31.3
30.3
370
360
340
<300
4 25
425
400
360
395
395
385
320

i 2 FGS FS PS 25923 Cpy/Cpo 21 29.7 31.3 30.6 <300 380 340

(
I I 4 FGS FS PTS 23169 Cpy/Cpo
lpy
3
15
31 .3
29.4
31.6
31.5
31 .5
30.0
380
<300
400
390
395
300
Cpy 2 29.3 29.3 29.3 <300 <300 <300
lpy/CAu 5 27.8 29.6 28.7 <300 <300 <300
(

( Abbreviations:

Orobody: Layer. A rsenopyrite location:

FGS= Fonte Grande Sui
B= Balancao
DO= Dom Domingos
CG= Canta Gala
n= Number of analyses
Apy= Arsenopyrite
S= Sulfide layer
FS= Fine sulfide layer
RS= Rect)'stallized Sulfide layer
MS= Massive-sulfide-like ore
Cpy= Contact with pyrite
Cpy/Cpo= Contact with pyrite and pyrrhotite
Cpy/CAu= Contact with pyrite and gold
I py= lndusions in pyrite
I po= Inclusions in pyrrhotite
lsph= lndusions in sphalerite
Matrix= Contact with gangue minerals

For all analysed samples, the highest ave rage atomic % As contents of arsenopyrite are from
arsenopyrite in grain-contact and occurring as inclusions in pyrite in the typical ore (Table 7-4).
For several arsenopyrite crystals which occur close or in contact to gold grains, the
compositions are in the range from 31.4 to 33.0 a ~% (temperature of 390 to 490°C). Apart from
co mparable average arsenopyrite compositions to su lfide layers (PS 25937, 31.3 at% As) , the
recrystallized ore contains lowe r values with a minimum of 29.2 at.% As . The lowest detected
(

r
(
~ J
Chapter 7 NATURE OF FLUIDS, TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITION OF GOLD Page 167

values of As are those from syn-to-post tectonic grains of D1 shea r zone samples (Table 7-4).
compositions range from 27.8 to 32. 1 at.% As and for two arsenopyrite compositions in grain

(
contact with gold, the at.% of As are 27 .8 and 28.9, equivalent to temperatures of <300°C
(Fig. 7-5 A, B).
( l
Discussion

The calculated arsenopyrite compositions yield temperatures ranging from 510°C to values
below 300° C (i.e. 30 at.% As) . The analytical data fits also with observations of Kretschmar &
Scott (1976) that arsenopyrite coexisting with pyrite contains less than 33.3 at.% As .

Assuming equilibrium conditions. temperatures yielded by arsenopyrite crystals coexisting with

pyrite and pyrrhotite and in grain contact with gold suggest that during BIF-sulfidation, gold
deposition occurred at (490°C) Fig. 7-5 A) and, in shear zones, deposition of gold occurred
below 300°C (Fig. 7-5 C, D).

7.2.2 Sphalerite geobarometer

Pressure estimation using sphalerite co-existing with pyrite and hexagonal pyrrhotite (e.g .,
Barton & Toulmin 1966, Scott & Barnes 1971, Hutchinson & Scott 1981, Toulmin et al. 1991)
yields values inconsistent with the expected P conditions of greenschist facies assemblages of
mafic metavolcanics (P= 1 to 4 kbar, ct. Spear 1995). Low FeS contents averaging 7.4 to 12.3
mole % (corresponding to pressures of 3 .5 to 11 .5 kbar, Table 11-12 b, Appendix IV) probably
represent re-equilibration during cooling from peak metamorphic temperatures . This is
indicated by the presence of monoclinic pyrrhotite which has a upper stability limit of 248oC at
low pressure (e.g ., Scott & Kissin 1973).

( 7.3 Stable isotope investigations

The sulfur isotopes of pyrite and pyrrhotite concentrates were determined at Activation
Laboratories, Canada. The results are reported relative as o34 S in per mil (%o) relative to the the
34 34
,.Canyon Diablo troilite" (COT) standard from the relationship : 8 S = (834
S I 8 Sstd) x 1000,
34 34
where 1i S is the isotope ratio of the sample and 8 Sstd corresponds to the isotope ratio of the
(. COT standard. Data yields compositions varying from 1.7 to 5.4 %o (Table 7-5).
{ J
Samples of BIF, mafic volcanics , carbonaceous metapelites were analysed for carbon and
oxygen isotope compositions of carbonate minerals. Analyses were performed at the
CENPES/PETROBRAS Laboratory, Rio de Janeiro , Brazil using the method described by
13
McCrea (1950). Results of carbon isotope ratios are presented as o C PDB with respect to the
18 16
standard Peedee belemnite (P DB). Oxygen isotope ratio measurements ( 0/ 0 ) are

(
 Chapter 7 NATURE OF FLUIDS , TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITION OF GOLD Page 169
(

(
Table 7-6 Carbon and oxygen isotope compositions of carbonates of the Cuiaba Mine compared to
( data of other Archaean deposits and reservoirs.
Tabelle 7-6 Kohlenstoff- und Sauerstoffisotopie von Karbonaten der Cuiaba Mine im Vergleich mit
anderen Lagerstatten des Archaikums und des Reservoirs.
(

Ore body Carbonate d13C org o/oo(PD B) d13Ccarb o/oo (PDB) d018 carb

CUIABA MINE
( Metasediments
Banded iron-formation s
(
B (ore) sid >ank -22.3
( FG sid >> ank -19.8
FG sid >> ank -16.4 -4 .5 -14.9
Carbonaceous metapelite (Fg)
(
B ank -22.6
( FG S ank -2 1.1
( GS ank -21.4
Metapelite (X1)
(
B ank -15.8
B ank -7 .7 -16.9
(
Altered mafic metavolcanics
B ank -6.3 -17.0
FG ank -6.7 -16.7
(
ARCHAEAN GOLD-LODE DEPOSITS
Range (1) -10 to +2.2
Yilgarn Block-mafic metavolcanics (: -2.7 to -7.3

ARCHAEAN BIF-HOSTED DEPOSITS

Ag nico-Eagle (Canada) (3) -1 to -3 +11 to +14.5
Primary Siderite -1 + 16.4

RESERVOIRS (4)
Organic compounds -20 to -35
oxidation < -10
Hydrolysis < -10
Magmatic -3 to -7(-5 )
Marine carbonate -3 to +3 (0)
seawater 0
Decarbonatization +3 to +5

(1) Groves & Foster (1991) Orebodies: sid= siderite

(2) McNaughton et al. (1990) B= Balancao ank= ankerite
(3) Wyman et al (1986) FG= Fonte Grande
(4) Colvine et al. (1 984) GS= Ga linheiro Sui
 Chapter 7 NATURE OF FLUIDS, TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITION OF GOLD Page 171

pyrite and minor pyrrhotite, arsenopyrite and chalcopyrite . Alteration mineralogy in sulfidation
zones of mafic metavolcanics includes pyrite, pyrrhotite, sericite and ankerite . Experimental
studies indicate that temperature and pressure changes as well as phase separation were not
a major control for gold deposition in Archaean lode-gold deposit (e.g ., Benning & Seward
1996). The main reason for decreasing the solubility of gold is achieved by fluid-wallrock
reactions (e .g., Groves & Phillips 1987, Mikucki et al. 1990, Mikucki 1996). A potential
mechanism for precipitation of gold from bisulfide complexes is the sulfidation of iron-rich host
rocks (e.g., Neall 1987). The extraction of sulfur due to sulfidation causes the destabilization of
reduced sulfur complexes in solution and, then, gold precipitation (e.g. Colvine et al. 1988).
Mi crotextural studies at Cuiaba show that gold deposition ocurred simultaneously with sulfide
precipitation due to fluid-BIF interaction . This indicate that fluid-wallrock sulfidation reactions
were the principal gold depositional mechanism . These reduction reactions (see section 10.2)
induced instability of gold complexes. decreasing the gold solubility and sulfur activity.

Chemical and mineralogical changes involved during fluid-BIF interaction indicate that the fluid
was Au-enriched relative to Pb-Zn -Cu and sulfur-rich . Similarly to Archaean lode gold deposits
(e.g., Phillips & Groves 1983, Ho 1987 , Ho et al. 1985) occurred the introduction of Ag, As ±
Sb (Fig. 7-1 ). Pressure conditions could not be determined . Conditions available from mafic
metavolcanics metamorphic mineral assemblages suggest pressures compatible with the
range of 1 to 4 kbar (cf. Spear 1995).

J. Since the deposit suffered an intense degree of deformation which resulted in recrystallization ,
remobilization of material and annealing of minerals, it is not possible to estimate original
characteristics of mineralizing fluids such as sulfur fugacity and temperature from the present
sulfide assemblage .
!.
 lr ,
Chapter 8 COMPARIS ON WITH O THER BIF-HOSTED GOLD DEPOSITS Page 173

8 . COMPARISON WITH OTH ER BIF-HOSTED GOLD DEPOSITS

8.1 Introduction
(
Archaean banded iron -formations host several important gold deposits worlwide and the
importance of these rocks as exploration targets has been stressed by many authors (e.g .,
Ladeira 1985, Foster 1985, Groves et al. 1990, Kerswill199 3). Table 8-1 presents the principal
characteristics of Archaean BIF-hosted gold deposits in Brazil, Australia, Zimbabwe, Canada.
USA, Tanzania, India and South Africa which have gold content (i.e., production and reserves)
of more than 1 metric tonne . The main characteristics of deposits of this countries are
(
presented below. Apart from providing the different geological models of ore genesis which are
essential for mineral exploration, this summary is an attempt to identify and to discuss briefly
those factors which have contributed to economic gold concentration in these rocks. In some
cases, particularly for deposits of the Quadrii<Hero Ferrifero, selected well-documented
important deposits are discussed in more detail.

\..
8.2 Brazili a n deposits
(

Iron formations are an ubiquitou s feature of almost all Archaean granite-green stone
terranes of Brazil. However, only the Archaean Rio das Velhas greenstone belt sequence
l (2 .8-2.7 Ga) in the Quadrilatero Ferrifero contains economic-grade BIF-hosted gold
\ mineralization (e.g ., Ladeira 1985, Hoppe et al. 1987, Ribeiro-Rodrigues et al. 1996b). An
overview of the greenstone-hosted gold mineralization in the Quadrilatero Ferrifero was
\.
presented in the chapter 3. As deposits hosted by BIF belongs to this group, in some cases .
~
data discussed here overlaps with data of section 3.4.
~
I
~ II At present 5 mines are producing 1 000 000 t ore per year with grades varying from 8 to
!
10 g/t Au (in order of importa nce: Cuiaba, Sao Bento, Raposos , Morro Velho and Brumal).
\
I'
\ I Two deposits (Pari and Lamego) are being reevaluted and will possibly start operating
(Fig . 3-3) . Proven gold reserves exceed 250 t.
\..
There are several similarities between the gold mineralization at Cuiaba and other BIF-hosted
\
gold mineralizations in the Quadrilatero Ferrifero. All deposits have stratabound characteristics
\.
and are located in the volcanosedimentary sequence of the Nova Lima Group. Such as at
\
Cuiaba, BIF and cherts are associated with different lithologies, particularly with greenschist-
\.
\ facies mafic an~ felsic volcanics as well as carbonaceous metapelites (Table 8-1 ). The
\ important BIF-hosted deposits (Table 3-6) are commonly sited at a volcanic-sedimentary rock
\... interface or where BIF layers are associated with impermeable carbonaceous schists. The only
\.. '
\..
\..
(__..
,-- r ,.... ,- ~ r ,......
'

- - --·-··- '"" ' -·· ------1-

. ~

0
::::r
llJ
'0
ro
.....
co

Southern Cross noun~ >60 7 ox. sik Shear L<lne. replacement. pu (py. apy. lo. gal M.:tavokanicsa Komauiticand pcridotitic Kn:l:lk .:1 al ( 1995b)
Province qo:~rY veins metaoosall. dolerite) ()
Copperhead 20. I ox Shear zone Groves ct a) . ( 1990) 0
Nevoria 178 4.5 ox. silic Replacement po (cr. apy. Ill. py) u h r~mafic and mafic mcl:lvo lcan ics Groves ct al. ( I 990) s:
Great Vi,~oria 9 OX Replacement Groves .:1 al. ( 1990) -u
)>
H:xldon 2 ox Replacement Groves et al ( I990)
GroH:s ct a I ( 1990) :::0
Ea.< tern Mt Morgans 28 (.}~ Rcpl::tc:clncnt py (.:py. sph) Ma fic mct;J\ olea nics. felsic intrusives 2 6 3-2.65 Vidrcid>cr et al. ( I094) (/)
goldfields Cork Tree Well :!.5 ox Replacement Groves cl al. ( 1990) 0
province Mt Fischer 2 ox Replacement Groves et al. ( I 990) z
M:"g;uet 15 Repla<.:cmcnt ( ;roves el al ( 1990)
~
ox
Mt Korong I Repla..:cmcnt ( >roves el al ( I 'I'XI)
'" -1
Norscm:m- \Viilun:J R:mdals .j Mult iple veins Grov.:s & Barky ( 1988 )
I
0
-1
CANADA I
Slave province Lupin > I 13 II silk Str:uifonn. re-placement po (apy. 10. py) Metasediments (turbidites. mudstones) Lhotka et Ncsb111 ( 1988)
m
Bullis ct al. ( 1994. 1996)
:::0
{l)
Ge-orge Lake 20 10 silic ~(~) M~t;~scd iment s ( turbidites) Gibbins et al. ( 1991)
Rcn 13 6.5 silic po(~) Mc13$Cdimcnts (turbidites) Gibbins <:1 al ( 199 f ) 11
I
To rp Lake -1 .9 10 silic ~~y) Mct;~sediments (turbidites) Gibbins ct al ( 1991) I
Flunerll~ 2 16 silic po(~) Metasediments (turbidites) Grbbins eta I. ( 199 1) 0
Busow 1.2 8 silic Stra~ifi>rrn ~(~) Mct;Jscdim.:nts (turbidites) Kt,.SWIII (1993) (/)
-1
Crow River Central P~tricia 10.3 po. ~py (py) 13arr~1 & Johston ( 1 9~ 8)
m
Pid.le C ro w 2.1 II Replacement
0
Kcrs'"ll ( I993)
G)
Superior Province Carshaw I 6 ox Rep13ccmcnt py C:~c-alkaline mafic metavolcanics Fyon ct al. ( 1983) 0
Agnico-Eag le >I cb Stratifonn. shear zone py S l:~tc and Gr:~ywacke Wyman c tal. ( 1986)
r
0
Dona Lake >9 9 Stratifonn. replacement Kerswill ( 1993) 0
Kcrswill ( 1993)
m
Cullatow B-zon.: 3.2 II R.:placement
-u
0
(/)

ZIMBABWE -1
(/)
Shurugwi Wanderer 36 4. 1 ox. silic Multiple veins Mcta.«:drments Foster & Gill igan ( 1987)
Carnpcrdown 5.5 2 Quanz stringers py.po MetaSediments Foster & Glilligan ( 1987 )

Chcgutu (iianl IH po. py. apy. ql)' llltr:unafic· mctavokanics Fostc:r & Gilligan ( 1987)
apy. py. po. cpy. Mafic la,as and felsic c:xtrusiv ~-s Foster 8:. Gill igan ( 1987)
Pi.:kstnnc II . 7 6.4 Replacement
-u
m
co
CD
........
-...1
c.n
 (
) Chapter 8 · COMPAR ISON WITH OT HER BIF-HOSTED GOLD DEPOSITS Page 177
(

locally occu rring mafic dykes at Cuiaba are a conspicous fea ture at Sao Bento and the

I Raposos Mine (Fig. 8- 1). Four parallel, 15 to 50 meter thick, 20-30° north-east trending
(

( /
I
I
diabase dykes (A, 8, C, D) cut diagonally across the BIF horizons (Tolbert 1964). They
intruded along shea r zones which are approximately parallel to the axial plane of asymmetrical
(,
I' I folds . As observed in the Cuiaba deposit, th e dykes apparently were not important in
controlling ore deposition (Vieira 1988a, Godoy 1995).

(
{

I
Olli E 0
\
(
N
' '
(

(
"
( '

•_]
0 150m

. .CD 1:~:~:1<» c:]® c::J<V r<_J® c:::J~ §go

(
L:]® ~@ c::zl® !t!illiiii ® LJ® E3©
(
Fig. 8-1 Simplified geological map of the Raposos Gold deposit, No. 2400 level (1= gold ore,
2= BIF. 3, 6, 7, 8= mafic metavolcanics, 4= altered ultramafic metavolcanics. 5=
ultramafic metavolcanics, 9= lapa seca, 10= carbonaceous metapelite, 11 = mafic
dykes, 12= fault or shear zone, 13= drift offset. The main gold orebodies are the
( Espirito Oeste, Espirito Santo, No. 2 .. No. 3, Espirito Leste, No. 10 and No. 11.
c Modified after Vial 1980b).
Abb. 8-1 Vereinfachte, geologische Karte der Raposos Goldlagerstatte, Sohle 2400
(1 = Golderz, 2= BIF, 3, 6, 7, 8= mafische Metavulkanite, 4= alterierte, ultramafische
( Metavulkanite. 5= ultramafische Metavulkanite, 9= Lapa Seca, 10= kohlenhaltige
'
(
=
Metapelite, 11 mafische Gange, 12= Storung oder Scherzone, 13= Gal erie. Die
Hauptgolderze sind die Espirito Oeste. Espirito Santo. No. 2., No. 3, Espirito Leste.
No. 10 und No. 11 . Modifiziert nach Vial 1980b).

\
\
 Ctlapter 8 COMPARISON WITH OTHER BIF-HOSTED GOLD DEPOSITS Page 179

(
seq uence of mafic metavolcanics and metapelites. Each belt contains two or three parallel BIF
horizons which are continuous for several hundred meters although locally they pinch out or
are interrupted by faulting .
(

sz
(
(
(-
Plunge of the
( I
orebodies (95/45-12)
\
( '

( ~

( ~~~
~
I
r
(

Fig. 8-2 Schematic isometric projection of the Morro Velho Gold Deposit showing the structural
control of the orebodies. The orebodies are isoclinally folded and plunge parallel to the
( mineral stretching lineation (90/45-12) (Modified after Ladeira 1980a).
Abb. 8-2 Strukturkontrolle der Erzkorper der Morro Velho Goldlagerstatte. Die Erzkorper sind
isoklinal verfaltet und fallen parallel zur Mineralstreckungslineation (90/45-12) ein.
(Modifiziert nach Ladeira 1980a).

(
~

( 8.3 Other deposits worldwide

Australia

( BIF-hosted gold deposits in Australia are confined to the Yilgarn Block, in the Murchison ,
Southern Cross and Eastern Goldfieds Province (Table 8-1, Groves et al. 1990). The nature
\. . and distribution of these deposits has been discussed in regional works on the gold ·
(
mineralization in the Yilgarn Block by Groves et al. (1987b), Groves & Ho (1990), Groves et al.
{
(1990) and in descriptions of individual deposits (e.g. , Mt. Morgans, Vielreicher et al. 1994,
(

\.
 Chapter 8 · COMPARISON WITH OTHER BIF-HOSTED GOLD DEPOS ITS Page 181

(m)
(
1000

0
Metabasics

'
'
Gil
Carrapato Formation
'
600
''
Sao Bento Iron Formation

B
Basal Graphitic Formation

m
Lower Iron Fonnalion

100
\

Fig. 8-4 Simplified geological section of the Sao Bento Gold Mine. Four distinct mineralized BIF
layers occur in the lower portion of the Sao Bento Iron Formation (modified after Abreu
1988).
Abb. 8-4 Vereinfachtes. geologisches Profil der Sao Bento Goldlagerstatte. Vier verschiedene,
mineralisierte BIF-Horizonte kommen im unteren Bereich der Sao Bento-lron-Formation
vor (modifiziert nach Abreu 1988).

Water Tank Hill, Bounty, Mt. Morg ans); and (2) some multiple quartz vein s, i.e. arrays of
discordant veins hosted by low-strain BIF (e.g., Golconda-Eureka, Randals) (Table 8-1). In
some deposits the ores may have a stratabound or even stratiform geometry (e .g., Water Tank
Hill, Groves & Ho 1990). Several deposits show remarkable down-plunge continuity (e.g., Hill
50, more th an 850 meters, Groves et al. 1987b). Comparison of structural controls of spatially
closed BIF- and mafic-hosted min eralizations such as at the Cuiaba Mine ca n be made also in
some Australian deposits. For exa mple, in the Water Tank Hill area, shea r zo ne-, basalt-
hosted ores appear to be ea rlier than the BIF-ho sted min eralization . At Copperhead, the latter
both types of mineralization show similar structural controls and timing of gold emplacement
(Groves et al. 1987b).

Gold minera lization is associated with sulfides (pyrrhotite, magnetite and arsenopyrite) with
average gold contents vary in g between 5 and 10 ppm. Regarqing to ore genesis. an
epigenetic model fo r the deposits is supported by (e.g ., Groves et al. 1987 b): (1) the structural
control of the deposits; (2) evidence for sulfid ation of BIF units; (3) fluid in clu sion date:
 Chapter 8 COMPARIS ON WITH OTH ER BIF-HOST ED GOLD DEPOSITS Page 183

floor hydrotherm al activity is not excluded for the genesis of BIF-hosted gold mineralization .
Evidences for a syngenetic origin are the occurrence of unmineralized iron-formations
immediately overlying gold -bearing BIF , greatest gold production of volcanic-dominated
succession and subsequent gold remobilization occurred in response to deformation.

Canada
I
The most important BIF-hosted deposit is the Lupin Mine which is one of the Canada's
currently largest gold producers (e.g ., Lhota & Nesbitt 1988, Kerswill et al. 1996). The deposit
\ occurs in a sequence of Archaean metaturbidites of the Yelowknife Group, Slave Province and

I
is responsible for more than half of the total Canadian BIF-hosted gold production and
reserves (> 113 t Au, Bullis et al. 1994 ). Similar to the Cuiaba Mine, ore zones are contained

(
I within a single, folded BIF horizon, continuous for more than 3 kilometer on surface and at
least 1.2 kilometer dip length (Bullis et al. 1994). The deposit has also stratiform characteristics
and gold is associated with pyrrhotite and arsenopyrite (e.g., Kerswill et al. 1996). However. in
the gold-bearing portions, the amphibolitic BIF (alternating grunerite, chert and hornblende
layers) is characterized by the presence of multiple quartz veins with adjacent pervasive
replacement of grunerite by hornblende (e.g., Bullis et al. 1994). Distinctly of the Cuiaba Mine,
there is a clear relationship between quartz veins and both sulfide and gold concentration at
Lupin . Highest gold grades occur within 1 meter around the veins and grades decrease rapidly
away from increasing distances of the vein margins. Based on these features several works,
including the mine staff, have concluded that gold mineralization is epigenetic and related to a
multiphase , pervasive quartz vein system formed by channeled fluids circulating in the cooling
(
sedimentary pile (e.g ., Lhotka & Nesbitt 1989, Bullis et al. 1994, 1996). However, another
group of workers interpreted the banded nature of the deposits as indicative of a syngenetic
gold concentration (e.g., Kerswill 1993, Kerswill et al. 1996). They postulated a genetic model
which involves a synsedimentary (including diagenetic) concentration of much gold and sulfur
in the stratiform portions of the deposit, followed by localized remobilization or epigenetic
introduction of some gold immediately adjacent to late quartz veins.

Over 190 gold showings and small deposits hosted by Archaean silicate iron-formations occur
\ '
in the Yellowknife Group, defining the so-called Archaean metallotect of the Central Iron
' Formation Zone (Gibbins et al. 1991 ). The nature of gold mineralization in these showings is
similar to the Lupin Mine. The most important prospects are listed in Table 8-1 .
\ j
Several important deposits of the Superior province contain only subordinate gold
mineralization hosted by BIF and chert (e .g ., Dome Mine, Colvine et al. 1984). Hence, the BIF-
hosted mineralization is generally poorly described in the literatur. Significant mineralization
occur also at Agnico-Eagle, Joutel (Wyman et al. 1986) and Carshaw, Timmins (Fyon et al.
•
(

COMPARISO N WITH OTHER BIF-HOSTED GOLD DEPOSITS Page 185

• Chapter 8

USA

The Mineral Hill Mine, at Jardine , Montana comprises th e single example of gold mineralization
in Archaean BIF in the USA (e.g ., Hallager 1984, Smith 1996). The mineralization shows no
similarities to the Cuiaba Mine. Gold is associated with quartz veins with alteration envelops
cross cutting lower amphibolite, silicate (grunerite) banded iron-formation and meta-
sedimentary country rocks (mostly metaturbidites) (Smith 1996). The Alteration haloes contain
gold, sulfides and silicate alteration minerals formed at 520-560°C and 3 kbars . Evidences of
mineralization timing indicate a synmetamorphic hydrothermal alteration during prograde
metamorphism.

Although the giant carbonate-facies BIF-hosted Homestake Mine (> 1000 t Au, e.g., Rye &
Rye 1974) shows similar characteristics to Quadrilatero Ferrifero deposits (particularly to Morro
'
(
I Velho), since the Homestake-B IF is associated with Proterozoic metasedimentary and
(
I
metavolcanic rocks. the deposit is not included in this discussion.
~
l South Africa
I

~
I
South Africa shows a lack of Archaean BIF-hosted mineralization and only two currently
producing underground operations have significant gold concentration: the Princeton section ,
an orebody of the Agnes Mine in the Barberton greenstone belt (Eastern Consolited Mines)
and Amalia (e.g. Robinson 1995), in the Kraipan greenstone belt. In both deposits gold
orebodies are almost contained within the BIF and associated with sulfides. The Princenton-
BIF is, like the Cuiaba-BIF, a carbonate facies iron-formation with alternating siderite and chert
(locally iron-rich) layers (cf. Eastern Consolidated Mines internal report). Tuff bands occur
intercalated in the sequence. BIF Country rocks are ultramafic metavolcanics and

\ metasediments. Gold-bearing pyrite is the main sulfide mineral and exihibts similar
'
porphyroblasts textures to the Cuiaba Mine. Mineralization is epige netic, structurally controlled
and confined to anastomosing shear zones migrating at random through th e BIF. Pyrite is
product of sulfidation of siderite-rich laye rs adjacent to these faults .
\ !.

8.4 Summary and discussion

\ The comparison between th e nature of Archaean BIF-hosted gold deposits worldwide allows a
\ comprehensive understanding of some characteristic features of this type of mineralization .
Country rocks of the BIF are represented by ultramafic, mafic and felsic metavolcanics.
metavolcanoclastics and metasediments. There .is no direct relation between the country rock-
type and size of the deposits. Large gold mines occur in all BIF-country rock associations.
Similarly to Cuiaba, the majority of the deposits occur in a specific BIF horizon and were
 Chapter 8 COMPARISON WI TH OTHER BIF-HOSTED GOLD DEPOSITS Page 187

Table 8-2 Statistical data for BIF-hosted gold deposits in the world .
Tabelle 8-2 Statistische Daten fUr an Bl F gebundene Goldlagerstatten.

COUNTRY Production Past No. of deposits Three largest deposits

and reserve s Production (tAu)
>50 t > 10 t >1t

BRAZIL > 750 540 3 3 7 Morro Velho (>470 t)

(Quadrllfltoro Cuiaba (> 1oo t)
Forrlforo) Sao Bento(> 80 t)

AUSTRALIA > 258 208 2 5 25 Bounty(> 60 t)

Hill 50 (56 t)
Mt. Morgans (28 t)

ZIMBABWE > 170 157 7 14 Wanderer (36 t)

Giant (18 t)
Connemara (17 t)

( ' CANADA > 160 >50 1 2 4 Lupin ( < 113 t)

George Lake (20 t)
' Ren/Point-ltchen (13 t)

TANZANIA > 30 30 1 Geita (27 t)

Jubilee Reef (3 t)

INDIA > 24 1 ? Kolar/Oriental lode (24 t)

USA >8 1 Mineral Hill (8 t)

SOUTH >2 0.5 2 Princeton (1 t)

AFRICA Amalia (1 t)

Data: Brazil. Minera<;ao Morro Velho S. A., Minera<;ao Sao Bento S. A.; Australia, Groves et al (1990);
Zimbabwe. Foster & Gilligan (1987): Canada, Fyon et al. (1983), Lhotka & Nesbitt (1988) , Gibbins et al.
(1991 ), Kerswill (1993), Bullis et al. (1994); Tanzania, Borg et al. (1 990), Borg (1994); India. Hamilton &
Hodgson (1986) ; USA. Smith (1996) ; South Africa, Robinson (1995). Eastern Transvaal Consolidated
Mines.

I,
 ' (
( Chapter 9 DISCUSSION OF ORE GE NES IS Page 189

9 DISC USS ION OF ORE GE NESIS

,.i
I
I
I 9.1 Genetic concepts for BIF-hosted gold deposits
( :
The genesis of gold mineralization associated with BIF is worldwide controversially discussed
I. and different processes have been proposed to explain the origin of these deposits. The
genetic models ca n be grouped into six main types:

.· I (1) a syngenetic model, involving th e synsedimentary sea-floor enrichment of gold and

c I
sulfides as a result of cha nges in temperature, pH and Eh due to mixing of
hydrothermal exha lative-related metal-bearing fluids and seawater (e.g.,
Anhauesser 1976, Fripp 1976, Saager et al. 1987);

(2) a syngenetic metamorphic model, involving synsed imentary sea-flo or enrichment of

(
gold and sulfid es transported by metamorphic fluids (e .g. , Kerrich & Fryer 1979 ,
(
Groves et al. 1987b);

(3) an epigenetic magmatic hydrothermal model where gold mineralization is

associated with lamprophyric or felsic intrusion (e.g ., Tyler 1937, Borg 1994);

(4) an epigenetic model , proposing a structurally controlled fluid flow, transport and
precipitation of gold during subsequent tectono-magmatic or metamorphic events
(e .g., Phillips et al. 1984, Groves et al. 1987b, Lhotka & Nesbitt 1989, Borg 1994,
Bullis et al. 1994, 1996, Vielreicher et al. 1994);

(5) a multi-stage, epigenetic model, suggesting a late remobilization of an epigenetic

mineralization (e . g ., Vieira 1991 a, 1991 c).

(6) and a multi-stage, syngeneti c mod el, suggesting a primary enrichment of gold and
late remobilization (e. g., Rye & Rye 1974, Oberthur et al. 1990, Hutchinson 1993,
Kuhn 1994, Kerswill et al. 1996).

The genesis of the BIF-hosted gold mineralization in the Quadrilatero is also subject of much
debate. Genetic co ncepts involve sing le-event (epigenetic) and multi-stage (epigenetic and
syngenetic) models. Based on th e stratiform character and lithological association, Ladeira
(1991 b) proposed a syngenetic model related to subseafloor hydrothermal activity with late
remoblization. In contra st, Scarpelli (1991) proposes that the bulk of gold mineralization was
introduced comtemporaneously with a late orogenic event durin g the Proterozoic. Vieira
(199 1a) also supports an epig enetic origin of the mineralization . but postulates a multi-stage
(
mineralization including an early Archaean orogeny with late remobilization during a
Proterozoic tectonic event. The Prote rozoic orogeny w as responsib le, in some deposits. for
(
( Chapter 9 DISCUSSION OF ORE GENESIS Page 191

lineation and concentration of pyrrhotite in F, fold hinges: this suggests either

(
structurally controlled remobilization or new introduction of sulfides into areas of
(
low mean stress;

(5) Association of gold mineralization and gold grade with structures transgressive to
bedding: locallly, pyrite-rich areas and higher gold grades occur in 0 1 and 0 2 shear
zones:
(

( (6) high gold/base metal ratios similar to other Archaean epigenetic volcanic- and BIF-
hosted gold deposits.

Regarding the shear-related , mafic metavolcanics- and sediment-hosted mineralization, the

mineralogical and structural data indicate an epigenetic, syn-En event gold introduction . This
mineralization is associated with 0 , and D2 shearing and characterized by disseminated
( sulfides (with gold inclusions) occurring along planes of discrete sigmoidal shear zones. Only
the sheared parts of the host rocks are sulfidized and , therefore, mineralized .

9.2.2 Epigenetic single-event versus epigenetic multi-stage model

(
On the base of the data presented above, the question remains whether the BIF-hosted gold
mineralization is :

(A) epigenetic single-event. and occurred together with the mineralizing event of its
country rocks during the En orogeny; or

(B) epigenetic, multi-stage, pre-En orogeny, with later remobilization during the En

( event.
( In discussing this question. it is important to emphasize that syn-tectonic ore emplacement
(option A) or remobilization of pre-tectonic ore deposits {option B) are largely overlapping
concepts (e.g., Marshall & Gilligan 1993). They are consequently capable of yielding the same
or similar types of geometric relationship , fluid chemistry, fluid-inclusion data, as well as metal
and sulfur sources.

Guidelines for distinguishing between both pre-En event remobilized and syn-E n mineralization
at the the Cuiaba Mine are not conclusive . The Cuiaba Deposit shows some characteristics
which suggest an epigenetic multi-stage process of gold mineralization. These include:

( (1) The Quadrilatero Ferrffero was affected by three distinct orogenies including the
late Archaean Rio das Velhas Event (2 .8-2.7 Ga), the Paleoproterozoic
Transamazonic Event (2 .1-1.9) and the Neoproterozoic Brasiliano Event (0.75-0.45
(
Ga). The volcano-sedimentary lithological sequence at Cuiaba is older than 2.7 Ga
(Schrank et al. 1996) and therefore , the rocks have been affected. at least, by the

(
 Chapter 9 DISCUSSION OF ORE GENESIS Page 193

mineralization similar to volcanogenic massive sulfi de (VMS). In this case , th e replacement

( .

(I
( !
resembles a sulfid ation of the BIF by fluid s introduced during diagenesis adjacent to
hyd rothermal extensional growth faults (Large 1992). Such replacemen t mechanism may be
!
( i syndiagenetic or within poorly consolid ated sed ime nts (e.g, Middle Valley on the Juan the

r I Fuca Ridge). However, at Cu iaba Mine there is no evid ence of structures which could have
r I acted as a feede r conduit for large volumes of hydrothermal exhalative related fluids. In
( i
add ition , the BIF-hosted ore geochemistry is not similar to VMS deposits and, as discussed in
(I ! chapter 7, the nature and characteristic of ore flui ds indicate a more likely metamorphic origin.
( l Exhalative-related fluids are imcompatible with so me characteristics of th e Cuiaba
( '

(
mineralization such as: the low base metal co ntent of the ore (in VMS precious and base metal
enrichments are generally equ ivalent, e.g. Hannington et al. 1991 ); absence of sulphate
( minerals which do not indicate that seawater su lfate was a major source of sulfur. Other
distin ctive characteristics like the lack of disseminated-stringer su lfide zones and absence of
footwall-dominated alteration are inco nclusive at Cu iaba, since these features could be
I
overprinted by the subsequent tectonic events; (c) thu s, fluids are more likely to be associated
I with metamorphic processes. Generation of metamorphic fluid would be related to a pre-En

(
II tectonic event, namely, the Rio das Velhas orogeny.

Alth ough th e remobilization features and the limited relative and absolute geochronological
data point to a multi-stage mineralization , a sy n-En , single-phase gold emplacement is
preferred because:
(

( (1) there is no evidence of tectonic structures which would be related to the Rio das
Velhas orogeny at the Cuiaba Mine: the N-S trend in g strike-slip shear zones, the
most conspicous structures of this event, were not recog nized in the study area;

(2) the orebodies have a geometry concordant with th e D, phase linear fabric: the
consistent down-plunge co ntinuity of the oreshoots (> 3000 m) which is parallel to
the regional tectonic transport of th e En event, suggests a focused fluid flow along
structurally indu ced permeabilities (i.e. para llel to the stretching lin ea tion, alo ng
shea r zones and/or faults). Precipitation of the gold and the sulfid es took place
along intersections of the channeled fluid flow with the Cuiaba-BIF, which acted as
(
a chemically favou rable host rock. An epigenetic multi-stag e model does not
t..
explain the elongated geometry of th e shoots. Alth ough the actual mechanisms are
not well understood (Peters 1993), pipe-like geometry of orebodies is generally
( accepted to be a direct consequence of a regional deviatoric stress acting in a ro ck
( seq uence, i. e., related to a deformation phase (e.g., Ridley 1993). Thus , the
(
elongated geometry is more plausibly to be generated during the En event. A
(

- -· ·~ ·
(
(
DISCUSSION OF ORE GENESIS
r -~
Chapter 9 Page 195

(
major process of wall-rock alteration and directly associated with gold deposition;
(
(iv) the geochemical signature, i.e. the mineralization shows consistent metal
( .
associations (Au-Ag-As-Sb-W and low base metal) which are compatible with
(
( epigenetic fluids (e .g. Fyfe & Kerrich 1984, Groves et al. 1987b).
(

(
9.2.3 Conclusion
( I
Similarly to other Archaean greenstone-hosted gold districts, the genesis of the gold at Cuiaba
(
may be explained by a sing le mineralizing event. The sequence of processes can be
(
suggested as follows . During the formation of the Nova Lima Group (Fig . 9-1 a), gold was
( '
concentrated in background values (ppb range) in all lithologies. Subsequently, occurred the
deformation of the lithological sequence during the En event and associated epigenetic,
replacement-dominated BIF-hosted gold minera lization. The pervasive and selective
replacement of the particularly chemica lly favourable Cuiaba-BIF is related to oblique strike-
slip , reverse faults which acted as channelways for mineralizing fluid flow in the vo lcano-
sedimentary sequence of the NGva Lima G roup.

During the 0 1-phase, the oreshoots developed conco rdant (parallel) with the l1

mineral/stretching lineation. With progression of deformation, occurred also the local

( enrichment of gold in shear zones, fold hinges and in shear fractures adjacen t to quartz veins
( as well as the generation of the dominant structure of the deposit, the Cuiaba tubular fold
( (Fig. 9-1 b). In places, common ly near or at the contact with the BIF, the mafic were
( '
mineralized along shear zones (Fig. 9-1 c).
(
( D2 phase shear zones were responsible for the boudi nage of the Cuiaba-BIF and for the
( formation of recrystallized, massive pyritic ore bodies. Boundin neck areas were filled by the
(
cou ntry rocks of the BIF, by quartz remobilization and locally by sulfides and gold.
(.
During 0 3 phase occurred the local replacement of BIF-quartz-carbonate layers , adjacent to S3
fracture cleavage . Quartz veining occurred durin g 01 , D2 and D 3 phases. but shows economic
( gold grades only when pyrite is present.
(

(
(

(
 (
( : Cllapter 10 CONCLUSIONS A ND IMPLICATIONS FOR EXPLORATION Page 197
(
(
10 CONCLUSIONS AND IM PLICATIONS FOR EXPLORATION
(

(
• The Quad rilatero Ferrifero , with a historical gold production and reserves amountin g to over
(
750 t, is th e major Archaean BIF-ho sted gold province in th e world. The Cuiaba Deposit is
(
the mo st importa nt currently producing mine of the district and represents one of th e major
(
( gold ope rations of Brazil.

(
• The lithological succession of the Cuiaba Mine area is included in the Nova Lima Group,
(
which form s the lower part of the Rio das Velha s Supergroup greenstone belt sequence.
(
The structure of the deposit is dominated by a large-scale, south -east (24-35°) plunging
(
tubul ar-sheath fold. The loca lly gold bearing Cu iaba Banded Iron Formation (Cu iaba-BIF),
( varying in thickness from 6 to 15 meters, lies between lower mafic metavolcanics
( intercalated with metased iments in the footwall and upper mafic metavolcanics.
( metasediments and metavolcanoclastics in the hanging wall. Metamorphism reached
greenschist facies conditions.

• The inventory of structural elements in the studied area is genetically related to three
( deformation phases (0,, D2. 03) which took place under crustal compression representing
( one progressive deformation event (En). This event was respo nsible for th e form ation and
(
development of folds, axial plane surfaces, mylonitic foli ation s, lineation s, faults, shea r
zones and shear fractures. The tecton ic transport direction was from E-SE to W -NW. All
(
litholo gies are affected by a pervasive axial planar, locally mylonitic foliation (8,=149/51)
(

(
and show a prominent mineral/stretching lineation (Lstr=116/24-35). These stru ctures (and

( the Cu iaba tubular fold) were developed during the D, deform ation phase. Late (D2 pha se)
( north-west-verging sigmo idal thrust faults reactivated pre-existing structures and caused
foldin g, boudinage and rotation of th e Cuiaba-BIF. 03 phase was responsible for the
form ation of a spaced cleavage and a crenulation lineation . Based in field relationsh ip, the
En event (< 2. 1 Ga) can be correlated either with the Trasamazonic (2.1-1.8 Ga) or
(
Brasiliano (0.75-0.45 Ga) oroge nies. The Archaean Rio das Velh as event ( 2.8-2.7 Ga)
(
( co uld not be recog nized in the area.

l o The unmin eralized Cuiaba-BIF is characterized by alternating millimeter-to-meter scale light

quartz-ca rbonate, dark ca rbonate-quartz and chert layers. The patterns (spider diagrams)
of distribution of major and trace elements of the Cu iaba-BIF are analogo us to other
Archaean iron-fo rmation s. suggesting th at th ey are probably deposited in very simil ar
.chemical en.vironments. Norm alizations of transition metal against averages of crust,
Algoma- and Superior-type BIF show a similarity between the Cuiaba-BIF and Algoma iron-
formations.
 Chapter 10 CONCLUS IONS AND IM PLICATIONS FOR EXPLORATION Page 199

various fea tures reported for A rchaean gold-lode deposits, which are interpreted as
epigenetic si ngle-eve nt (e.g., Colvine et al. 1988, Groves et al. 1990) including: (i) the
association with Fe-rich host lith olog ies; (ii) the remarkable down-plunge continuity relative

( to strike length and width; (iii) th e epigenetic nature of the mineralization, with sulfidation as
th e major process of wall-rock alteration and directly associated with gold deposition ; and
(iv) the geochemical signature. with mineralization showing a metal association (Au-Ag-As-
Sb and low base metal content) which is compatible with epigenetic fluids.

• Thus, similarly to ot her Archaean greenstone-hosted gold districts, the genesis of the gold
( at Cuiaba might be explained as a single mineralizing event involving a syn-0 1 epigenetic,
replacement-dominated minera lizatio n. 0 2 shea ring was responsible for the forma tion of
recrystallized , massive pyritic ore bodies. A final phase of gold remobilization co rresponds
(
to the local replacement of BIF-quartz-carbonate layers. adjacent to S3 fractures cleavage.
(

Guidelines for exploration

• The controls of the gold mineralization at Cu iaba are lithologica l, mineralogical and
structu ral. Gold distribution closely reflects host-rock composition and to a lesser extent, the
degree of deformation. Gold precipitation is directly related to pyritization of Fe-rich
lith ologies (BIF and mafic metavolcanics). As a consequence, the gold grade is directly
related to the abundance of pyrite in mineralized areas.

• The key elements in eva luating the prospectivity of ancient volcanic successions for gold
deposits in the Nova Lima Group appear to be a combin ation of geolog ica l setting , Fe-rich
lithologies and structure (ductile , ductile-brittle faults) . It is important to emphasize that gold-
bearing shear zones do not necessa ril y manifest themselves as lineaments and, therefore ,
must be defined by careful mapping .

• Alteration pa ttern s in the mafic metavolcanics can be used to obtain indication of the
mineralizing potential of a target area or to indentify possible ore zones which are norma lly
smaller than the alteration haloes. Lithology is the most important variable affecting
alteration exp ression. Variations in original host rocks are expressed by cha nges in mineral
chemistry modal abundaces. Intense alteratio n (proximal) zones are dominated by
assemblages containing calcite. sericite and su lfides. Intermediate zones and more distal
alteration are dominated by ch lorite-calcite assemblages. Hydrothermal alteration is a
indication of fluid passage but it is not always .related to gold mineralization.

• Potential target areas in the Quadrilatero Ferrifero are low-grade, shear zone-hosted
deposits within metavolcanics and metasediments. The anoma lous gold values for the
 (
( REFERENCES Page 201

(
11 REFERENCES
( Abreu, G. C. 1995. Geologia e metalogemese do ouro da Mina do Pari, NE do Quadrilatero Ferrifero,
MG. Unpub. Ph.D. thesis, Univ. Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, 120 pp.
(
Abreu, A. S., Diniz, H. B., Prado, M. G. B. & Santos, S. P. 1988. Mina de ouro de Sao Bento, Santa
Barbara, Minas Gerais. In: Schobenhaus, C. & Coelho, C. E. S. (Editors), Princi pais dep6sitos
minerais do Brasil, metais basicos nao ferrosos, ouro e aluminio, 3: 393-411.
( Alkmim, F. F. 1985. Sedimentologische, lithostratigraphische und tektonische Untersuchungen in der
Serra de Ouro Branco. Minas Gerais, Brasilien. Unpub. Ph.D. thesis, T. U. Clausthal, Clausthal, 217
pp.
(
Almeida, F. F. M. 1977. 0 craton do Sao Francisco. Rev. Bras. Geoc., 7: 349-364 .
(
Alves, J.V. 1995. Estudo de lnclus6es Fluidas em Veios de Quartzo da Mina de Ouro de Sao Bento,
{ Santa Barbara, MG. Unpub. M. Sc. thesis, Univ. Fed. Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 99 pp.
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\
\. '
(_
'
REFERENCES
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 KURZFASS UNG
Page 219

DE UTSC HE KURZFASS UN G DER ARBEIT

Gold Mine ralisation in der Ba nded Iron Formation des Archaikums im

Eisernen Vierec k, Minas Gera is, Bras ilien -
Die Goldlagerstatte Cuiaba

' I Praambel

Die bergbaulichen Aktivitaten haben in hohem Ma ~e zur Entwicklung Brasiliens beigetragen.

Ourch die .Suche nach Gold und Diama nten wahrend des 17., 18. und 19. Jahrhunderts
I
,I entwickelte sich die po rtugiesische Kolonie Brasilien immer weiter in s Landesinnere hinein . Die
Entstehung weiterer Ortschaften und Stadte (z. B. Ouro Preto) sowie die lntegrierung von
' I
i
neuen Gebieten sind deutliche Zeichen diese r Entwicklun g und bild eten die Basis fUr di e
l .;

{I heutige Dimension d es Landes. Das Eiserne Viereck war bis zum Ende der 70er Jahre die
wichtigste Goldprovinz Brasiliens. Aus diesem Grund uberschneidet sich z. T. die

.i
(
Goldbergbauge schichte des Landes und die des Eisernen Vierecks .

Mitte des 16 . Jah rhund erts wurde an der Serra do Jarag ua im heutigen Bundesstaat Sao
Pau lo zum ersten mal Gold entdeckt. Ende des 17. Jahrhunderts (1698) wurden reiche
\. Seifengoldvorkommen in der Reg ion von Ouro Preto (.. Schwarzes Gold") in Minas Gerais
t-..- gefunden, die der Auslose r fOr den Goldrausch in d ieser Region wurden. lm Verlaufe des 18.
Jahrhunderts war Brasilien, mit einer Goldproduktion von 858 t Au, der g ro ~te Produzent der
\
Welt. Durch die Entdeckung von Gold in Kalifornien und Australien in der Mitte des 19.
l...
Jahrhunderts (1850) verlor Brasilien seine Bedeutung als Goldproduzent. In der Periode von
1850 bis 1975 betrug die brasilianische Produktion 5 t Gold pro Jah r. Die Produktion wurde
\...
\ hauptsachlich d urch eine einzige Lagerstatte des Eisenen Vierecks getragen, die Morro Velho
Mine (> 470 t Au), die alteste, durchgehend in Betrieb befindliche Goldmine der We lt. Erst
gegen End e der 70er Jahre hat Brasilien se ine Bedeutung als Goldproduzent zuruckerhalten.
Dies erfolgte mit der Entdeckung von Lagerstatte n wie Serra Pelada , Fazenda Brasileiro und
Currais Novas sowie die Wiederbewertung von alten Minen (e.g. Crixas, Cui aba, Sao Bento
und Morro do Ouro).

1. Kapitel - Einleitung

Die im Bundesland Min as Gerais, etwa 40. km ostlich der Hauptstadt Belo Horizonte gelegene
Cuiaba Mine za hlt zu den Hauptgoldprodu ze nten der Region und zu den bede utendsten
Goldvorkom men Brasiliens. Sie enthalt mehrere Erzkbrper, die an die archaische Cuia ba-

\,
\
 KURZFASSUNG Page 221

2. Kapitel - Regionale Geologie

Die Goldlagerstatte Cuiaba liegt im Bereich des slidlichen Sao Francisco Kraton, im Eisernen
Viereck (Quadrilatero Ferrifero). Das Eiserne Viereck bildet regionalgeologisch ein Granit-
Grunstein-Terrane. Die Haupteinheiten sind (1) der aus hochmetamorphen Gesteinen und
Plutoniten bestehende Basement Komplex (3,2 Ga ., e.g. Carneiro et al. 1994, Noce 1995), (2)
die Rio das Velhas Supergroup, eine Grunsteinglirtelsequenz (3,0-2,7 Ga, Machado et al.
1989, 1992), (3) die Minas Supergroup(> 2,1 Ga, Babinski et al. 1991) und (4) die Espinha9o
(
Supergroup (ca . 1,7 Ga, Machado et al. 1989). Die beiden letzteren Einheiten bestehen
Oberwiegend aus klastischen und chemischen Sedimenten (Piattformsedimente).

Die Rio das Velhas Supergroup la~t sich untergliedern in die im Liegenden auftretende Nova
(
Lima Gruppe, die aus Metaultrabasiten, Metabasiten und BIF (untere Einheit), felsischen
Metavulkaniten und Metasedimenten (mittlere Einheit) sowie klastischen Metasedimenten und
Metavulkanoklastiten (obere Einheit) besteht; und die Maquine Gruppe, die aus klastischen
(
Metasedimenten aufgebaut ist.

Der Metamorphosegrad des Eisernen Vierecks variiert innerhalb der Haupteinheiten . Wahrend
der Basement Komplex eine prograde Metamorphose von Amphibolit- bis Granulitfazies sowie
eine retrograde Metamorphose in der Grlinschieferfazies zeigt, erreicht der Metamorphose-
grad der suprakrustalen Sequenzen (i.e., Rio das Velhas, Minas und Espinha9o Supergroups)
maximal den Obergang zwischen Grunschiefer- und Amphibolitfazies.

3. Kapitel - Oberblick Uber die Goldmineralisation im Eisernen Viereck

'
Die Goldlagerstatten des Eisernen Vierecks lassen sich in drei verschiedene Typen
untergliedern: (1) archaischen, an Grlinsteingurtel gebundenen Lagerstatten, mit
schichtgebundenen Mineralisationen in der Banded Iron Formation (Aigoma-BIF) und
scherzonengebunden in Metavulkaniten, Metavulkanoklastiten und Metasedimenten; (2)
\.. proterozoischen, an Sedimente gebundenen Lagerstatten , die durch an Scherzonen
{
gebundene Mineralisationen in der Banded Iron Formation der Superior-Typ-BIF, durch

'l.. Quarzgange in dem Kontakt zwischen der Minas- und der Rio das Velhas-Supergroup und

l
durch Witwatersrand-Typ Konglomerate charakterisiert sind; (3) kanozoische, an Alluvium und

\.., Laterit gebundenen Lagerstatten mit Seifen und Lateritmineralisation, die mit den archaischen
\ und proterozoischen Lagerstatten assoziiert sind . Etwa fOnfzig Prozent (> 560 t Au) der
\... . Goldproduktion des Eisernen Vierecks kommen aus den an Grlinstein gebundenen

'\... Lagerstatten, etwa zehn Prozent (90 t) aus den proterozoischen und etwa vierzig Prozent (>
400 t) aus den kanozoischen Lagerstatten .
l

'
\.._
·r

\
--~~,..._..~---~ -
..- ... ..-·-- ......,._ - ~- ---- ·- ~-':. ~ ·-· ... -· ·-.
 KURZFASSUNG Page 223

Die Algoma-Typ Cuiaba-BIF wird von einer Karbonatfazies dominiert; die Machtigkeit variiert
( I

( \
zwischen 1 bis 15 Meter, die laterale Ausbreitung betragt mindestens 1 km . Die Banderung der

( cuiaba-BIF resultiert aus der Wechsellagerung von dunklen und hellen Quarz-Karbonat-Lagen
sowie Chertlagen, die in ihrer Machtigkeit von einigen Millimetern bis in den Meterbereich
( I
variieren. ,Sulfidlagen" kommen nur in mineralisierten Bereichen vor. Quarz. Siderit, Ankerit
(
und Kalzit dominieren in hellen Quarz-Karbonat-Lagen; Siderit, Ankerit und Quarz
charakterisieren die dunklen Karbonat-Quarz-Lagen und Quarz mit untergeordnet Karbonat
(

die Chertlagen. lnnerhalb der Cuiaba-BIF tritt ein 15 em machtiger Horizont von mafischen
( Metavulkaniten auf.

( '
Die Verteilung der Hauptelemente in der Cuiaba-BIF reflektiert den variirenden Bestandteil von
(
( Quarz und Karbonat. Wahrend Proben mit hohen Si02-Anteil einen hohen Quarzgehalt
aufweisen , enthalten Proben mit hohen Fe-, CaO- und C0 2-Konzentrationen einen
entsprechend hohen Karbonatanteil. Die Spurenelementkonzentrationen sind abgesehen von
einigen wenigen Ausnahmen normalerweise niedrig . Die niedrige Konzentration von
Elementen, die indikativ fOr detritische Komponenten wahrend der BIF-Ablagerung sind,
spricht fUr eine rein chemische Ablagerung. Die mittleren Zusammensetzungen der

( Hauptelemente der Cuiaba-BIF sind mit anderen Iron Formationen des Archaikums
( vergleichbar, die wahrscheinlich in einem ahnlichen chemischen Millieu zur Ablagerung
( kamen . Der Vergleich der mittleren Gehalte der Obergangsmetalle der Cuiaba-BIF normiert auf
mittlere Zusammensetzungen der Kruste sowie Algoma-Typ und Superior-Typ der
<. kanadischen Eisenerze zeigen ahnliche Muster.

Die klastischen Metasedimente (X 1) und die kohligen, klastisch en Metasedimente (Fg) sind
durch die Mineralkomponenten Muskovit, Quarz, Karbonat, Chlorit und durch kohliges Material
(
gekennzeichnet. Die chemische Zusammensetzung dieser Gesteine ist mit dem NASC (,North
c American Shale Composite") und mit den Metapeliten der Chuniespoort Gruppe (SUdafrika)
vergleichbar. Die Spurenelementverhaltnisse unterscheiden sich wenig voneinander. Niedrige

I Th/Sc-, La/Sc- und V/Ni- und hohere Ni/Co- und CrN-Verhaltnisse deuten auf einen mafischen
( Beitrag bei der Ablagerung dieser Gesteine hin .
\
Die in ·der Region vorherrschenden Metavulkanoklastite bestehen a us Serizit, Chlorit, Quarz,
Karbonat und Plaglioklasphanokristallen. lhre chemische Zusammen setzung entspricht den
Metapeliten. JUngere Diskordante, nicht deformierte basische Gange mit einer Machtigkeit bis
30 m sind haufig innerhalb die~er Lithologie .

L
 'l'T
I,
'1 KURZFASSUNG Page 225
( I

,I
l
bzw. Quarz-Sulfidgangen in Scherzonen vor, die Metavulkanite und Metasedimente
( I
durchschlagen.
(
I

f ! Die an BIF gebundenen Erzkorper bestehen aus einer Wechselfolge von sulfidischen, dunklen

1
! und hellen Quarz-Karbonat- und Chertlagen. Die Dimensionen der Erzkorper variieren von 1
( bis 6 Meter in der Machtigkeit und bis 100 m in der Lange entlang einer Sohle (.,stope length").
oas Erz hat helle bis dunkle Farben und ist ortlich massiv, nicht gebandert oder rekristallisiert.
( I
oer reichste Erzkorper ist der sogenannte Fonte Grande Sui mit 13.5 g/t Au-Gehalt. Der
Obergangsbereich zwischen der mineralisierten und der nicht mineralisierten BIF zeigt eine
( I
variation der Sulfide von 70 Vol.% zu weniger als 1 Vol.%. und eine Abnahme der Goldgehalte
( i

von 60 ppm zu Werten unter der Nachweisgrenze. Ortlich sind sulfidreiche und sulfidarme
Bereiche tektonisch durch Oberschiebungen oder durch Quarzgange getrennt .
' I
( Die detaillierte tektonische Kartierung ermoglichte die Charakterisierung des
Zusammenhanges zwischen tektonischen Strukturen und der Goldmineralisation. Wahrend
der D 1-Phase des En-Ereignisses wurden die Erzkorper verfaltet und geschert. Gold und
Sulfide wurden remobilisiert und in Scharnier- und Scherzonen angereicht. D2-Scherzonen
verursachten Boudinage und Rotation der Cuiaba-BIF sowie eine Remobilisation von Sulfiden,
(
Gold und deren Anreicherung in ,.Boundin-Neck"-Bereichen. Wahrend der D3-Phase wurde die
(
Cuiaba-BIF entlang der S3-Foliation lokal sulfidisiert.
(
( Die sulfidreichen Bereiche des Erzes bestehen aus rund 30 bis 70 Vol.% Sulfid, die zu 90
( Vol.% Pyrit sowie 1-3 Vol.% Pyrrhotin und Arsenopyrit enthalten. Andere Sulfidminerale sind
~ Chakopyrit, Sphalerit und Galenit. Die Gangartminerale sind Quarz und Karbonat. Aile Sulfide
{
sind durch niedrige Konzentration von Spurenelementen charakterisiert (normalerweise
zwischen 0,1 und 0,5 Vol. %). Die Rontgenbeugungs- und die Mikrosondenanalysen ergaben,
da~ die Karbonat-Phasen aus Siderit, Fe-reichen Dolomit und Ankerit bestehen. Gold ist
feinkornig (bis 60 1-1m Gro~e) und ca. 55 % der beobachteten Goldkorner sind kleiner als 10
!Jm. Gold kommt i.iberwiegend an As-reichem Pyrit gebunden als Einschli.isse, in Spalten oder
auf Korngrenzen vor. Aile Goldkorner enthalten mehr als 6 Gew.% Spurenelemente (Ag, As.
Hg, Bi, Te, Sb). Silber variiert von 4 bis 24 Gew.% und der durchschnittliche Feinheitsgrad des
Goldes [Au/(Au+Ag) x 1000] betragt 840 (Au:Ag=1 :6). Die Konzentrationen anderer
Spurenelemente im Gold ist durch eine Variation von 2 bis 5.5 Gew.% gekennzeichnet.
Maximalwerte sind 2,4 Gew.% Hg, 0,72 Gew.% As , 0,51 Gew.% Bi, 0,34 Gew.% Te und 0,2 1
Gew.% Sb. Kupfer, Nickel und Kobalt liegen unter der Nachweisgrenze.

Die Gehalte von Fe, Ca, Ti, Si02, C02 und S variieren in reprasentativen Proben des Erzes:
Si0 2 (4-50 Gew.%), Fe203 (23-57 Gew.%), CaO (0,4-10 Gew.%), Ti02 (0,01 -0,19 Gew.%),
C0 2 (4-26 Gew.%) und S (8-43 Gew.%) bedingt durch unterschiedliche Anteil der Sulfide.
Quarz und Karbonate . Die typische Goldkonzentration im Erz ist 23 ppm, mit einem Maximum

..j __ .. _ _...
----
 ~tt.-
~ --
KURZFASSUNG Page 227
•~
~ des Erzes (Nr. 24) berechnet. FOr konstantes Volumen fand eine Massenverringerung von 6,3
~ % statt. Wahrend der BIF-Sulfidisierung wurden Gold und Schwefel sowie CaO, As , Cu und
•- Pb zugefOhrt und kohliges Material konsumiert . Die zugefOhrten Elemente wurden zur Bildung
~ der Sulfide Gold und Karbonate verbraucht.
t '
~ Mikroskopische Untersuchungen ergaben Hinweise auf eine gleichzeitige Fallung von Gold
~ und Sulfiden. Hierbei fanden Sulfidisierungsreaktionen zwischen den Fluiden und bevorzugten
' Lagen der BIF statt, die zur Verringerung der Schwefei-Aktivitat fOhrten und die mitgefOhrten
r~ · Goldkomplexe destabilisierten . Die starke Korrelation von Gold und Sulfiden deutet auf einen
~ Goldtransport in Form von Sulfidkomplexen hin. Mogliche Reaktionen sind:
(

•
• Au(HS)2-+ H+ + FeC03 <=> FeS2+ Au+ H2C03 + Y2 H2
) . siderite pyrite
I • Au(HS)2-+ W + CaMgFe(C03)3 <=> FeS2+ CaMg(C03)2 +Au+ H2C03 + Y2 H2
ankerite pyrite dolomite

Die mafischen Metavulkanite zeigen eine auffallende hydrothermale Alterationszonierung. Von

(
I'. Scherzonen nach auQ,en sind eine Serizit-, eine Karbonat- und eine Chloritzone ausgebildet. In
den mineralisierten Bereichen bildete sich eine Sulfidzone, die durch einen hoheren Anteil von
Sulfid (bis 20 %) im Vergleich zu der Serizitzone gekennzeichnet ist. Die Sulfidisierung fand
entlang diskreter Scherzonen statt, die Goldfallung ist wahrscheinlich mit folgenden
Reaktionen assoziiert:

0
• FeO<Gesteinl + 2 H2S <=> FeS 2 + H20 + H219l
Chlorit Pyrit
l J
0
o Au(HSr2 + H• + 1/2 H2 191 <=> Au+ 2 H2S

Die 813C-Werte von organischem Material der Cuiaba-BIF (-22,3 bis -16,4 %o), der Metapelite
(X1 , -15,8 %o) und der kohligen Metapelite (Fg, -22,6 bis -21,4 %) weisen auf eine
synsedimentare Entstehung dieser Gesteine hin. Schwefel-lsotope (+1 ,7 bis +5,4 %o) des an
BIF gebundenen Erzes sind mit den ,Gold-Lode"-Lagerstatten des Archaikums vergleichbar
13
(+1 bis +6 o/oo , Groves & Foster 1991 ). Die o C-Werte von Karbonaten der mafischen
Metavulkaniten (-6,3 und -6,7 %o) sind ahnlich der Werte der , Gold-Lode"-Lagerstatten des
Archaikums sowie der goldfOhrenden mafischen Vulkanite des Yilgarn Blocks, Australien
(
(McNaughton et al. 1990).
~

\
( }

l
( I
 r7
~ 1
KURZFASSUNG
Page 229

~
• Mineralisation aus. Auch ein epig enetisGhes, magmatisches Modell ist unwahrscheinl·. h
IC ,
.
da In
der Cuiaba-Region keine magmatischen lntrusionen beobachtet worden sind .
•
~ Die geochronologischen Daten und Remobilisierungsmerkmale wahrend des En-Ereignisses
(

• zeigen eine polyphase Goldmineralisation an. Die Pb-Pb-Datierung von Galenit (> 2.4 Ga)

~
• ergibt ein pra-Minas Supergroup-Alter tor das erste Ereignis . Obwohl dies auf eine Entstehung

~
(
der Goldmineralisation vor dem En-Ereignis hindeutet (Modell Nr. 5), sprechen mehrere
Hinweise fOr eine einphasige Mineralisation wahrend der En-Orogenese (Modell Nr. 6). Zum
(
t
Beispiel die parallele Anordnung von Erzkorpern und D, -Lineationen. Die Erzfalle treten zwar
•
(
t schichtgebunden auf, folgen aber in ihrer Uingsorientierung der tektonischen Elongation (L 1-
(
Mineralstreckungslineation). Diese Geometrie der Erzkorper kann nur durch eine Gold-
)• mineralisation wahrend der D,-Phase erklart werden. Au~erdem zeigt die Goldmineralisation in
(

( • Cuiaba verschiedene Ausbildungen , die auch tor andere epigenetische, einphasige

)
( Goldlagerstatten des Archaikums beka nnt sind: (1) die Goldmineralisation ist mit Fe-reichen
I
( . Gesteinen assoziiert; (2) die einzelnen, .. zigarrenformigen" Golderzkorper sind an tektonische
I
( Strukturen gebunden und erreichen bei geringer Machtigkeit (von 1 bis 6 m) und geringer
I
( Breite (bis zu 20 m) eine beachtliche Teufenerstreckung von Ober 3000 m; (3) die
I
(
Sulfidisierung ist der Hauptmechanismus der Alteration der Ausgangsgesteine; (4) die
I
(
I
geochemische Signatur der Erze, mit einer typischen Metallassoziation (Au-Ag-As-Sb-W) und
(
I niedrigen Buntmetallgehalten, spricht fOr eine Mineralisation durch metamorphe Fluide.

Aus diesen Grunden kann auch die Genese der Goldlagerstatte Cuiaba, wie in anderen

( .· Goldprovinzen des Archaikums, durch ein einziges Ereignis erklart werden: Die
Goldmineralisation ist syn-D, und wurde wahrend der D2- und D3-Phasen remobilisiert.

( . 10. Kapitel • Schlul!folgerung und Konsequenzen fOr die E xploration

Die Goldmineralisation in der Cuiaba Mine ze igt strukturelle, lithologische und mineralogische
Kontrolle. Von entscheidender Bedeutung ist die stark strukturelle Kontrolle der Mineralisation.
Die Erzkorper treten zwar schichtgebunden auf, folgen aber in ihrer Langsorientierung der
Mineralstreckung slineation. Die lithologische Kontrolle ist durch die Assoziation der
Goldmineralisation mit Fe-reichen Lithologien (BIF und mafische Metavulkanite)
l .
gekennzeichnet. Die Gold-Pyrit-Assoziation spiegelt die mineralogische Kontrolle wider. Es
existiert eine positive, lineare Korrelation zwischen Gold und Schwefel fOr Goldgehalte bis 10
ppm. Au~erdem enthalten die schwach sulfidisierten Bereichen der Cuiaba-BIF keine
okonomische Goldgehalte.

Die Hauptprospektionskriterien tor die Goldmineralisation sind eine Kombination des

geologischen Umfeldes: Die vulkano-sedimentare Sequenz .. eisenreiche Lithologien und
tektonische Strukturen. Die hydrothermale Alterationszonierung der mafischen Metavulkanite
kann als lndikation fOr mogliche mineralisierte Bereiche verwendet werden.

I
J
.1
 APPENDICES Page 231

(
(

(
(

APP ENDICES

l
(

. -·""
i
~ .
---~-- - ·· · ~- - - - - - - - - - - - ·-
 ,.. -
--- ~
r- ,... ,... - r-
- r- ........ ,.... r ,.-. ,..... ,..., ,-.
r --... ,...... ,.., ' '~
,....
r- ·-·-- -··- ·- - -- ·- ·- - ----- ·-· - "'-···- -- - - -
'
-- - ·-
--..
...
. (
', \
"'· - ~- - ~

~
)>
SAMPLE No. ROCK DESCRIPTION PS-No. TS·No. PTS-No. FIS·No. Photo XRD EPMA XRF LECO INAA FA OG d13C c~rb dUC org d180 c ~ rb dl4S \ "'0
\)
m

\~
FONTE GRANDE SUL OREBODY
5R-FGS·A BIF oro
5R-FGS·B BIF ore
5R·FGS·F1 66 BIF late voins crossmg the boddong X X
5R-FGS-F2 BIF l~te veons crossmg the boddmg

5R·FGS·1A·9 1 BIF wothout sulphodes 22987 23145 X X X X X X

5R·FGS·1C-4 X2 ncar tho contact woth the SIF X X
5R·FGS·2·7 4 SIF ore. with fine and c~rse sulphodcs 23166-169 X X X X X X
5R-FGS·2·12 Fg w oth "ostnas de falha
5R·FGS·3·3 . Otz vein tumo o leitoso X X
5R -FGS·5· 10 BIF great block with folds
SR-FGS-5- 1t BIF groat block woth folds
5R·FGS·6 BIF ore X X
5R-FGS·B BtF ore. fine sulphodes X X
5R -FGS· 16 5 BIF contac t
5N-FGS-3 Otz vems woth sulphodes X X
5N FGS·10 BIF ore
5N·FGS·13 BIF ore. w.th fino sulphides
BIF ore. With ftno sulphodes 25922-923 22988 X X X X X X X X
5N FGS· 14 2
6N-FGS·1 BIF ore
3 BIF ore 25924-925 22989-991 X X X X
6N·FGS· 1A
6N-FGS·2A BIF contact W11h the hangwall
6N -FGS· 4· 4 81F ore. light color
6N·FGS·5 BIF ore. light color
X X

'l 6 N-FGS·6·6
6N·FGS·18
6N-CA·495-8 41
BIF
8 1F
X1181F
ore. light color
ore. light color
contact 23159 X
lI 6N·CA· 495-35 42 SIF ore 23f53
23160
X
X
X
X
6N-CA· 495- 104 43 BIF ore
!
I 61\'-CA -495-113 44 BIF/Fg w oth sulphodes 23154 X
61\/·CA-495- 133 45 Fg 23165 X X
7N-FGS· 1 46 X2? cont:~ct
w.1h X2 23398·399 X X
7N·FGS·2 47 BIF/X2 snear zone. wuhou1 sulphlldcs 23389-390 X X X X
7to.i ·FGS ·3 BIF m.)SSIVO Or6 X

FONTE GRANDE LIGACAO OREBODY

BIF Ore. With folds X X
5N·FGL·5·1

FONTE GRANDE OREBODY

5N ·FG
5N·FG·A BIF w oth sulphodes. place of rock drollong
SN·FG-8 BIF wothout sulphides. place ol rock
5 BtF ote 25927-928 25992-993 X X X X X X X
6N·FG·3
BIF ore X X
6N-FG-4
37 mba oroentatcd 23187 X X X X X X
5N-FG· 1·1 (15)
oroen tated 23188 X X X X X X
5N-FG·2·1 (16·2) 38 mba
23189-190 X X X X X X X
5N·FG·3· 1 (17) 39 mba oroentated
mba oroentated 23191 X X X X X X X
5N -FG· 4· 1 (18·2) 40
X X
5N·FG·5· 1 (19· 1) 81F FG. daok color. carbonaceous
5N·FG·5·5 (19·5) 81F FG. beddong and foloatoon X X -o
llJ
co
(l)
BALANCAO OREBODY
X X
5R · 8 · 1A-4 Phyllo! hangwall
X X
5R ·B·5·5
5~ ·8 ·5·6 6
Xg
BIF
woth "estnas de lalhas". oroent.lted
lew sulphodes 25929 22994·995 X X X X X X "c.c.
 , -~

~
~

- -... - ,.,
- -.. ...... -.
'"' ' ...... -...
- ··""" '
..... ...... -..... . ......

~ ·-·-· ···-·--·- . -·· .. - ··- - - -- ·-··- ------ ·--··· - -- ··- --·- ·· ···- · .....
I ~

:t>
SAMPLE No. ROCK DESCRIPTION PS~o. TS-No. PTS·No. FIS-No. Photo XRO EPMA XRF LECO INAA FA OG d13C carb d13C org d180 carb dl4S \~
m
z
0
CANT A GALO ORE BODY
SR.CG-17·1
SR.CG-17-2
5R.CG-t7-2A
24
X2
61F
61F
greal block. contact wah ore
oro. great block. replacement
ore. small block
23174-176 X
X
X X X X X
X X
IS
SR.CG-17-3 61F ore. coarse sulph1des. dark color
5R-CG-17-4 19 61F ore. hght color 23034·035 X X X X X
SR-CG-17-5 BtF ore. COJrsc und fmc sulph•dcs
SR CG-17-6 20 61F ore. dar1< und l1ghllayers 23036-037 X X X X
5N-CG-A 21 Fg With sulphides 23038 X X X X X X X
6N·X BIF Without sulph1d~s
6N-CG-1 22 X2 contact With the ore 23039 X X X X X X X
6N.CG·2A 6 1F ore
61~ CG 26 BIF ore
6N.CG-5 23 6 1F ore 23040 041 X X X X X X X

GALINHEIRO OREBOOY
SR-G-1-1 25 6rF ore. With massove sulphides layers 23163-164 X X
5R ·G· 1-IA 61F ore. w1th mass1ve sulph1de layers X X
5R G- t-t 6 61F ore. "shear zone sulph1de"
5R-G-F1 BtF ore. massrve sulphide

GALINHEIRO SUL OREBOOY

SR-GS-1 Fg w1th sulphides X X
SR-GS-3 61F contact With lh~ 61F

CALINHEIRO EXTENSAO ORE BODY

3N-CA-50-10 72 XI sheared X X
3N-CA-50-22 73 X2 With organ1c maner X X
7R-GE 56 X2 fohaled 23391·392 X X X

CALINHEfRO OUARTZO OREBODY

SR -G0-1 Otz vern WJitl few sulph1dos gr:uns
5R-G0·2 Otz veJn 2 vetns gonorahons
SR-G0-3 26 X2•C28? with sulph1do 23161 X X X X
SR-G0-4 Otz vem wrth sulph1do. contact wtth Phyll1t

CALINHEfRO FOOTWALL OREBODY

SN- GF-1 27 X2 ore. wrth sulphides 23155-156 X X X X X X
SN -GF-2 28 X2 oro, W1lh sulph•des 23157·158 X X X
SN-GF-3 29 X2 ore. w1th sulphrdos 23162 X X
SN -GF -4 63 X2 ore. w1th sulphides X

BALANCAO FOOTWALL OREBODY

X2 w1th sulphides X X X
6N-6F- 1
6N-6F-2 30 X2 wrth sulph1des 23147 X X
31 X2 w1th sulphides 23148 X X X
6N-6F·3
64 X2 wrth sulphides X X
6N·8F-4

li
5R-6F-1 X2 ore. wrtn sulphides
ore. wtth sulph1des 23400 X X X X
5R -6F-2 52 X2
53 Xs met.atutf 23393-394 X X X X X
11N-6F·1
54 X2 RV-1 23395 X X
IIN-6F-2
IIN-6F -3 55 Xl RV-5 23396·397 X X X X X N
t:
 ,....... r- ,....... ,. . . . r r r .~
r ,.-. ,- ,.....-.
r ~ r _,.-
.,....

~--- ..
' ;--.

- ..-, ....
'1111

)>
\)
SAMPLE No. ROCK DESCRIPTION PS-No. TS.No. PTS-No. FIS-No. Photo XRD EPMA XRF LECO INAA FA CO d1lC carb d13C org d180 Ci>rb dl4S \)
25757 m
35-1 BIF ore. pile 20874 22787 X X z
25753 (Au)
0
36·1 BIF ore. plio 20872·873 X X 0
25754
m
(/)
36·2 BIF ore. pole 20863·864 X X
25751
25759 (Au)
36-3 BIF ore. polo 21530 X X
25752 (Au)
39· 1 BIF oro. pile X X
39·2 BIF ore, polo 20866·869 22785 X X
20870-872
PARI MINE, Br ;azll

BROMSTOCK MINE, Zimb;>bwe

ZIM·B· 1 57 BIF Jaspolot 23041 X

SHERWOOD STARR MINE, Zim babwe

ZIM·SS BIF Jaspolot X

PRINCETON SECTION (ACHES MINEJ , South Aftrc;a

SA·P·1 58 BIF unmonerahzed 23042 X
SA-P·2 BIF ore X
SA·P·3 BIF ore X
SA-P-4 BIF ore X
SA·P-5 BIF ore X
SA-P-6 BIF o re X
SA·P·7 BIF ore X
SA·P·8 BIF unmoneralozcd X
SA·P·9 BIF ore. shear zone. grey pyrito X

"'0

~
11\.)
....,
(.)
 f
(
r APPENDICES Page 239
(

("

(
Rock BIF X1 X2 Xs Fg mba
( Ore body

r Oallnhelro PTS 23155 (27)

Footwall PTS 23 1 ~6 (27)
( PTS 23 157 (28)
PTS 23 1 ~8 (28)
( PTS 23 162 (29)

Bal ancao TS 23396 (55) TS 23400 (52) TS 23393 (53)

Footwall TS 23397 (55) TS 23395 (54) TS 23394 (53)

PTS 23147 (30)

( PTS 23148 (31)

Com PTS 23170 (32)

Domingo s PTS 23 171 (32)

Open Pit TS 23192 (34)

PTS 23146 (33)

Levei J TS 23184 (35) TS 23186 (36) PTS 23643 (67)

TS 23185 (36) PTS 23644 (67)
( PTS 23645 (67)

No. TS 21 TS 3 TS 15 TS 2 TS 5 TS 4
of sections PS 14 PS PS 1 PS PS 1 PS
PTS 29 PiS 1 PTS 9 PTS PTS 2 PTS 3
No. total
o f see11ons 74 4 25 2 8 7

Morro TS CA Sup F70 TS CA 03 F29 TS CA 03F11 TS N10 I.IC 03 TSCA03F14 TS CA 03 F08

Velho TS CA03F35 TS CA 61 869.0 TS CA03F21 TS CA 637 16.0 TS CA03 F03 TS CA 03 F07
Colee1lon TS NEP CA 12.0 TS CA 63 222.0 TS CA 03 F28 TS PC 23 155.0 TS NEP CA 0 262 TS CA 03 F25
TS NEPCA 21.0 TS PC 23 541.5 TS CA 03 F42 TS PC 24 ~85.5 TS CA03 F66a
TS PC 23 655.0 TS CA 03 F61 TS NEP CA 0515 TS CA03 F66b
PS PJ CA MC01 TS NEPCAOII TS CA 03 F62 TS CA03 F66c
PS PJCA MC02 TS CA 03 F667 TS CA 03 F71
PS I.IC 04 Sal SN2 TS CA 65 794 0 TS CA 03 F39
PS MC OS Sal SN5 TS CA 03F72b TS CA03 F51
PS CA 03 F24 TS CA 48 399.0 TS CA 03 F 72a
PS CA03F31 TS CA 48 334. 1 TS CA03 F73
PS CA03F69 TS CA 5732.0 TS CA03F74
PS CA04 SN F63 TS CA 64 75.3 TS CA 03 F79
TS CA 64 126.0 TS CA03 FeO
TS PC 23 1238.0 TS CA04 FG
TS BCA 63 57.2 TS CA 48 147.0
TS BCA 63 ~8.8 TS CA 48 104. 1
TS NEPCA 117.0 TS BCA 63 21 .2
TS NEP CA 126.0 TS BCA 63 20.6
TS NEP CA 0 131 TS BCA 63 28.7
TS NEP CA 0 172 TS BCA 63 38.0
TS NEP CA 266,2 TS CA 6560.0
TS MC 02 TS CA 65 726,0
TS CA 65 700.0
TS PC 23 1743.0
TS PC 23 1750. 1
TS NEP CA 0396
TS NEP CA 0223
TS NEP CA 0400

Observahons·
BIF= Bancle<l rron lormai JOn
TS= Ttnn sechon X 1= MetaSedrmem
PS= Po!rshe<l sechon X2= Allere<l mafic meta\'O!canrcs
PTS= Polished thrn sectJOn Xs= Metavo:canoclastrcs
22987= Sectron number Bold represents EPMA analyZe<l sectrons Fg= CarbOnaceous metase<lrm ent
(1)= Samp!e number mba= Mafic metavo!cantcs
BCA, CA. M, MC. NEP. PC. PJ= drrll holes

---_,.....------- -.----~ - - - - · - --.···-- ... - . ·----..·-· .

 ~
(
APPENDICES Page 241

Table 11-2 Detected minerals in country rocks.

Tabelle 11-2 Die festgestellten Minerale in den Nebengesteinen.

Rock mba X2 Xs X1 Fg vein

sample No. 37 38 39 40 67 11 22 26 31 47 48 49 50 53 68 36 55 10 21 51 13

Mineral

ouartz X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Siderite X X X
CalCite X X X X X X X X X
Ankerite X X X X X
001omrte X X X X X X
Magnesite X
Pyrite X X X X X X
Pyrmotite X X
Atseoop)'fite X
Muscovite X X X X X X X X X X X
Chlortle X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
PlagiOClas (Albite) X X X X X X X X X X X
K-Feklspar X X?
Epklae
Amph1bde (actinolite) X X? X X
S\llp!Omelan X
Zircon X
Magnesite X X
Rutil X? X? X X? X

Rock tyJX)s
X1= Metasediment
RS= Recrystallized sulfide layer
Fg= Carbonaceous metasediment
mba= Mafic metavolcanic
win= Quartz<art>onate win
X2= Altered mafic metavolcanics
Xs= Metavolcanoclastics

I
I
lI I
1...
I

...;
I
) ./ I
\ ./
I
)...;
).../
~-./
) ./
\
~J .... ----~
. ..... _,I"F)........~...
, .... • •,...
,....., . """"',_,-.------.~-- · ~ ·-· - -
--~ ----
 'T '
APPENDICES

Tabl e 11-4 E~ MA Standards and x-ray lines of the program PYR 21 (compositions in wt.%)
Page 243

Tabelle 11-4 Mlkrosondenstandards und .. X-Ray"-linien des Programmes PYR 2 1 (Z tz

. G 01) usammense ung
m ew . 10

Eleme nt X-ray line Type and composition of the standard

Fe,S K-alpha Natural pyrite: Fe=46.55, S=53.45

Co K-alpha Synthetic cobalt: Co= 100.0
Ni K-alpha Natural Nicolite: Ni=43.94, As=56.06
As K-alpha Natural Nicolite: Ni=43.94. As=56.06
Cu K-alpha Natural chalcopyrite: Cu=35.0, Fe=30.0, S=35.0

Table 11-5 EPMA Standards and x-ray lines of the program Au-cuiaba (compositions in wt.%).
Tabelle 11 -5 Mikrosondenstandard s und ,X-Ray"-Linien des Programmes Au-Cuiaba
( I
(Zusammensetzung in Gew.%).
(
Element X-ray line Type and composition of the standard

Au L-alpha Synthetic gold: Au:100.0

Ag L-alpha Synthetlc silvef: Ag=100.0
Cu, Fe K-alpha Natural chalcopyrite: Cu=35.0, Fe=30.0, S=35.0
Te L-alpha Synthetic tellurium: Te=100.0
Sb L-alpha Synthetic antimony: Sb=100.0
Bi L-alpha Synthetic bismuth: Bi=100.0
As K-alpha Natural nicolite: Ni=43.94, As=56.06
Hg L-alpha Natural cinabar. Hg=86.2, S= 13.6
Ni K-alpha Natural nicolite: Ni=43.94. As=56.06
~ Co K-alpha Synthetic cobalt: Co=100.0

Table 11 -6 EPMA sta ndards a nd x-ray lines of the program ASP2A (compositions in wt.%).
Tabelle 11-6 Mikrosondenstandards und ,X-Ray"-Linien des ProgrammesASP2A (Zusammensetzung
in Gew .%)

Element X-ray line Type and c omposition of the standard

Fe. As,S K-alpha Natural arsenopyrite: Fe=33.85, As=46.94, S=19.08. Cr-0.042, Ni=0.001 1.
Bi=0.01 . Sb=0.04. Cu=0.015
Co K-alpha Natural cobaltite: Co=21.63. As=43.47, Fe=7.61, Ni=7.07, S=20.21
'- .
\ I Ni K-beta Natural nicolite: Ni=43.94, As=56.06
Sb L-alpha Synthetic antimony: Sb=100.0

'
\

l...
v
~-
 APPENDICES
Page 2<45

Table 11-9 Carbonate compositions of the Cuiaba-BIF (in wt.%).

Tabelle 11-9 Zusammensetzung der Karbonate der Cuiaba -BIF (in Gew.%).

weight E!!!cent Mole~cent Fonnula

Section Orebody n CaO FeO MnO MgO C02 TOTAL CaC03 FoCOJ MnCOJ MgC03 Co Ft Mn M COJ

SIDERITE

Cb-L
23026 s 10 0.76 56.28 1.95 2.64 39.17 100.74 1.53 88.02 3.09 7.35 0.02 0.88 0.03 0.07 1.00
23037 CG 2 0.36 55.55 1.80 3.10 38.82 99.63 0.73 87.68 2.88 8.71 0.01 0.88 0.03 0.09 1.00

Maximum 12 0.96 56.93 2.28 3.59 39.64 102.02 1.94 89.76 3.62 10.04 0.02 0 .90 0.04 0.10 1.00
Minimum 12 0.35 54.56 1.33 2.48 38.58 99.40 0.71 85.59 2.14 6.97 0.01 0.86 0.02 0.07 1.00

Cb-D
23026 s 3 0.54 56.71 1.99 2.71 39.36 101.32 1.08 88.27 3.13 7.52 0.01 0.88 0.03 0.08 1.00
23175 CG 4 0.48 53.78 2.40 3 .47 38.59 98.72 0.97 85.37 3.85 9.81 0.01 0.85 0.04 0.10 1.00
23145 FGS 8 0.79 57.42 1.28 2.21 39.00 100.69 1.60 90.19 2.03 6 .18 0.02 0.90 0.02 0 .06 1.00

Maximum 15 1.67 59.45 2.48 3.82 39.53 101.98 3.37 93.94 3.99 10.76 0.03 0.94 0.04 0.11 1.00
Minimtm 15 0.35 53.33 0.83 1.43 38.38 98.43 0.71 84.29 1.33 4 .03 0.01 0.84 0.01 0.04 1.00

Vein
23175 CG 0.37 54.18 2.20 3.23 38.37 98.35 0.76 86.49 3.56 9.19 0.01 0.86 0.04 0.09 1.00
23145 FGS 4 0.76 57.49 1.53 2.34 39.31 101.42 1.36 88.96 2.64 7.04 0.02 0.90 0.02 0 .07 1.00

Maximum 5 0.95 57.99 2.20 3.23 39.52 102.00 1.89 90.30 3.56 9 .19 0 .02 0.90 0 .04 0.09 1.00
Minimtm 5 0.37 54.18 1.40 2 .27 38.37 98.35 0.76 86.49 2.20 6.27 0 .01 0.86 0.02 0.06 1.00
(
ANKERITE
(
Cb-0
( 23026 s 4 26.55 26.47 1.48 2.82 41.05 98.36 50.77 39.50 2.23 7.49 1.02 0.79 0.04 0.15 2.00
23145 FGS 8 25.98 26.70 1.30 3.29 41 .14 98.41 49.55 39.78 1.96 8.70 0.99 0.80 0.04 0.17 2.00

Maximum 26.70 28.62 1.90 5 .03 41.57 99.03 51.16 43.04 2.84 13.23 1.02 0.86 0 .06 0.26 2.00
Minimum 25.52 23.55 1.07 2 .19 40.73 98.05 49.03 34.70 1.62 5.86 0.98 0.69 0 .03 0.12 2.00
\ CALCITE
\
Vein
l.. 23026 s 19 54.04 1.23 0 .61 0.08 43.63 99.58 97.21 1.73 0.87 0.20 0.97 0.02 0.01 0.00 1.00

l.. Maximum 127 55.29 2.62 0 .84 0.15 44 .70 102.06 98.17 3.70 1.18 0.38 0.98 0.04 0.01 0.00 1.00
Minimum 127 52.32 0.65 0.49 0.03 42.96 98.26 95.10 0.91 0.68 0.07 0.95 0.01 0.01 0.00 1.00
\
l
! \ Rock: Orobody : n= Number of analyses
~- Cb-D= Darl< quartz-carbonate layer FGS= Fonte Grande Sui
Cb-L= Ught quartz-carbonate layer CG= Canta Galo
\... Vein= Quartz-carbonate v ein S= Serrotinho

1
\..../
\...; '
(._
\...
\...
\.._;
\...;
\...)
 APPENDICES Page 247

Table 11-11 Chemical composition of pyrrhotite and chalcopyrite of the BIF-hosted ore in wt.% .
Tabelle 11-11 Chemische Zusammensetzung von Pyrrhotin und Chalkopyrit des an BIF gebundenen
Erzes in Gew.%.

Fe co s
El<m!nlS
~ec:tonlrn1
0 03 003 "'
0 03
As
03
Cu
003 002
TOTAL

Se:t<n CX<I:JCOi La er n

PYRRHOTITE

Sulfide layer
25925 FGS s 1 60.65 0.00 0.04 0.18 0 .00 37.76 98.64
25926 FGS s 2 59.62 0 .05 0.00 0.00 0.01 39.98 99.65
23169 FGS-2. s 9 59.29 0.04 0 .00 0.38 0 .00 38.69 98.40
23175 CG s 10 59.15 0.04 0.01 0 .10 0.01 39.35 98.66
23176 CG s 59.68 0 .04 0.02 0. 11 0 .00 39.52 99.38

Inclusions in recrystallized pyrite

2593 1 8 RS 1 60.36 0.02 0. 17 0 .02 0.02 36.n 99.36
RS 4 60.24 0 .03 0.01 0.03 0.01 37.98 98.29
25937 8

Shear zone
0.04 0. 12 0 .08 0.01 39.39 99. 16
( 25922 FGS l Po 6 59.52
25923 FGS L Po 9 59.41 0 .03 0.09 0. 12 0.00 39.18 98.83
~
FS 5 59.05 0 .06 0 . 14 0.37 0.02 38.92 98.57
25922 FGS
FS 6 59.48 0.03 0.08 0 .17 0.00 39.11 98.88
25923 FGS
( 25936 8 LPo 3 61.00 0.00 0.02 0 .04 0.00 38.24 99.33
L Po 59.n 0 .03 0 .01 0 .00 0.00 38.45 98.26
25937 8

Quartz-carbonate vetn
v 8 59.27 0.04 0.31 0. 15 0.00 39.24 99.01
25931 B

72 61 .71 0.09 0 .36 0 .58 0.06 40.28 101.01

Maximum
72 58.65 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 37.72 97 .78
Mm1mum

CHALCOPYRITE

tndusions in recrystallized pyrite

2 30.76 0 .01 0 .01 0.21 ~ .46 35.56 101.00
25937 8

Layer; n= Number o( analyses

Orebody;
FGS= Fonte Grande Sui FS= Fine sulfide layer
B= 8alancao S= Sulfide layer
CG= Canta Galo RS= Recrystallized Sulfide layer
L Po= Pyrrtlolite layer
V =Vein
(

\.

\.. /

\_ I
 (

( APPENDICES Page 249

I

r
Table 11-13 Chemical compositions of carbonates of the BIF-hosted ore.
T a belle 11-13 Chemische Zusammensetzung der Karbonate des an BIF gebundenen Erzes.

r' wetght l!eccent Mole E!!:rcent Formula

Section Orebod~ n CaO FeO MnO M90 C02 TOTAL CaC03 FoCOJ MnC03 MgC03 Ca Fe Mn Mg COJ

SIDERITE

Sufi de layer
23167 FGS 3 2.42 55.33 1.57 2.25 39.22 100.79 4.84 86.42 2.46 6.26 0.05 0.86 0.02 0.06 1.00

Recryst. sulf. layer

23037 CG 3 1.93 52.61 4.43 2.25 38.95 100.17 3.88 82.74 7.06 6.31 0.04 0.83 0.07 0.06 1.00

Maximum 6 3.19 55.68 4.49 2.99 39.41 101 .40 6.39 86.55 7.19 8.35 0.06 0.87 0.07 0.08 1.00
Minimum 6 1.05 52.52 1.30 1.86 38.74 99.87 2.11 82.30 2.06 5.19 0.02 0.82 0.02 0.05 1.00

,..., ANKERITE

Sufide layer
23167 FGS 12 26.46 15.95 2.22 10.70 43.59 98.90 47.84 22.42 3.16 26.78 0.95 0.45 0.06 0.54 2.00
23030 s 10 26.86 16.n 3.88 6.62 42.43 98.75 49.67 27.17 5.69 17.46 0.99 0 .54 0.11 0.35 2.00

Recryst. sull. layer

23036 CG 5 25.35 16.22 5.21 8.99 42.89 98.69 46.40 23.22 7.54 22.85 0.93 0 .46 0.15 0.46 2.00
23037 CG 8 25.63 17.03 4 .91 8.71 43.11 99.52 46.67 24.23 7.06 22.04 0.93 0 .48 0.14 0.44 2.00
25927 s 15 26.86 15.70 2.87 10.10 43.50 99.02 48.45 22.24 4.08 25.22 0.97 0.44 0.08 0.50 2.00

Remobilizatioos
23145 FGS 5 26.85 24.31 1.27 4.56 41 .74 98.74 50.49 36.10 1.88 11.53 1.01 0.72 0.04 0.23 2.00
(
Maximum 55 29.07 28.53 6.39 14.n 45.57 100.11 52.88 42 .82 9.36 35.69 1.06 0.86 0.19 0.71 2.00
Minimum 55 24.98 7.43 1.08 1.93 40.81 98.02 46.04 10.07 1.63 5.16 0.92 0.20 0.03 0.10 2.00

Ore body: n= Number of analyses

FGS= Fonte Grande Sui
CG= Canta Galo
S=SErrotinho

l
.l

\
\..
l
1...
l~

'--~
.i._
 (
( APPENDICES Page 251

r
Table 11-15 Chemical compositions of ankerites of the shear zone-hosted ore.
r
Tabelle 11-15 Chemische Zusammensetzung von Ankerit des an Scherzonen gebundenen Erzes.
I' '
( weaght eercent Mole eercent Form uta
Section O rcbody n CaO FeO MnO MgO C02 TOTAL CaC03 FoC03 MnCO~ MgC03 Ca Fo Mn Mg C03

Fg
25934 B 15 26. 14 16.77 0.81 11.32 43.65 98.68 47.01 23.63 1.16 28.21 0.94 0.47 0.02 0.56 2.00
(
(· Maximum 15 26.61 27.98 0.88 13.32 44.46 99.68 48.60 41 .74 1.23 32.71 0.97 0.83 0.02 0.65 2 .00
Minimum 15 25.43 13.86 0.62 3.28 41 .06 98.00 46.42 19.09 0.94 8.72 0.93 0.38 0 .02 0.17 2.00

X2
( 23039 CG 10 26.n 15.46 0.90 11 .68 43.79 98.61 47.97 21.69 1.27 29.06 0.96 0.43 0.03 0.58 2.00
23148 GF 12 26.67 17.22 0.68 11 .03 43.95 99.55 47.63 24.00 0.97 27.40 0.95 0.48 0.02 0.55 2.00
I
Maximum 22 27.29 21 .15 1.28 13.93 44.62 100.31 49.32 30.27 1.84 34.32 0.99 0.6 1 0.04 0 .69 2.00
{
Minimum 22 26.08 11 .87 0.52 8.23 42.79 98.08 47.18 16.40 0.75 21.00 0.94 0.33 0.02 0 .42 2.00

Rock: Orebody: n= Number of analyses

Fg= Carbonaceous metapelile B= Balancao
( X2= Mafic metavolcanics CG= Canta Gala
GF= Galinheiro Footv.-all

(
(

Table 11-16 Chemical compositions of arsenopyrite of the BIF-hosted ore.

Tabelle 11-16 Chemische Zusammensetzung von Arsenopyrit des an BIF gebundenen Erzes.
(
We<!l!!l e!rcenl Focmuta AI O<n iC Pe~nl fe!J.As•S ;
( Elements Fe Co Na As Cu Sb s To lei Fe As s Fo As s
LO"Nft IJmil 0~ 0.05 0 05 0.45 0.03 007 004
Sameao llo O<ei>Odl laler Sechon n

T~IOIO
3 FGS s PS 25925 % 34 80 006 0.02 43 9 1 0.01 0.03 20 30 99.13 1.01 0.95 1.03 33.83 31 .82 34.35 0 51

20 CG s PTS 23036 16 35.03 0.07 002 44 34 0 02 19 30 98 77 1.03 097 0.99 34 45 32.50 33.06 0 .53

Ro<rysUIIliu<l ore
( 12 B RS PS 25937 47 34 95 0 04 0 01 43.19 0.01 001 2090 99 10 1.01 0.93 1.05 33 76 31.10 35.14 0 51
7 B RS PS 25930 2 35.33 O.Q3 0.0 1 44 25 0 .0 1 22.22 10 1.83 0.99 0.92 1.08 33 01 30.82 36.17 0 .49
23 CG RS PTS 23040 2 3499 0.22 006 42 19 0.01 2 1 88 9934 100 090 1.09 3347 3008 36 45 050
32 DO I.IS PTS 23171 36.19 0 03 0.00 41.93 0.00 2264 100 79 I 02 0.88 111 33.e8 29.24 36.90 0 51

Shear zone
2 FGS RS PS 25922 21 3454 009 009 43 34 0.02 0.00 21 16 9923 100 0.93 1.07 33 30 31. 16 35.54 0~0
2 FGS FS PS 25923 47 35.18 0 03 0.12 43.17 0.01 21 .69 10020 1.00 0.92 1.08 3346 30.61 35.93 0.50
FGS FS PTS 23169 25 35.22 002 0 03 <11.93 0.00 003 22.02 99 24 I 01 0.89 1.10 33.60 29.82 36.58 0.51
(
Ma»mum· 257 36 19 0 41 0 33 4606 010 0 37 23 20 101 95 104 I 00 1 15 000 34 71 3342 38 30 0 53
( Muwnum• 257 33.6 1 0.00 0.00 39. 2~ 0.00 0.00 18.53 9800 0.98 084 0.96 000 32 82 27.84 32. 15 049

l Abb(e"ebons.
On body: Layvr: n = l lumbor ol analyses • = Cu (n=95) and Sb (n= 172)
FGS= Fonte Glenda Sui S= Sulfade layer Apy= Arsenopynl e
B= Belencao FS= Fino sul1ide layer
DO= OOin Domangos RS= Racrystallazed Sulfado layer
CG= Canta Galo MS= M assaw -sulfado~ake ere

\
-l
 APPENDICES Page 253
(
(
Lead Fire-Assay
(

Gold, arsenic and sulfur compositions were determined using lead collection, followed by lead
( fire-assay were performed at the Morro Velho Minerac;:ao Assay laboratory. Aqua regia
=
(HCI:HN0 3 3:1) was used to liberated elements wich were extracted and concentrated into an
r
organic liquid phase. The final concentration determination was by Atomic Absorption
Spectrometry (AAS).

Carbon-sulfur analysis
(

Concentrations of sulfur, water, total organic carbon and total carbon were obtained using
( I determinators of LECO Instruments ltd. The sulfur content was determined using a S-200
(
sulfur determinator. This uses a high frequency induction furnace to combust samples
(
(oxidizing the sulfur components to form S02) and measure sulfur concentration as sulfur
(
dioxide by infrared absorption. The infrared source consists of nichrome wire which is
resistance-heated to 850°C. The S02 adsorbs infrared energy at a precise wavelength within
the infrared spectrum and a filter prevents all other infrared energy from reaching the Infrared
( detector.
(
Water and carbon contents analyses were performed by a RC-412 multiphase carbon ,
hydrogen Determinator. The RC-412 employs a furnace control system which permits the
( I

(
temperature of the furnace to be stepped and ramped. Variou s sources of carbon may also be

l differentiated by the temperature at which they oxidize and volatize. The amounts of the
( organic and inorganic carbon (as C02) and of hydrogen (as H20) are determined by infrared
\ spectroscopy. As radiant energy is projected through the sample material, an infrared
( absorption spectrum is produced . Since all molecules have a characteristic spectrum, the
(
identity and quantity of a compound can determined. The temperature varies from 100 to
(
1000°C.
l...
l
(
\.
(
(

\ /
 r
,
APPENDICES Page 255

(
Table 11-18 Chemical compositions of the least altered Cuiaba-BIF. Dark carbonate-quartz layers
and whole rock analyses.
Tabelle 11-18 Chemische Zusammensetzung der wenig alterierten Cuiaba-BIF. Dunkle Karbonat-
Quarz-Lagen und Gesamtgesteinsanalysen.

SAMPLE 1-11lAI 13 1lAI 24-1 ClAI 24-2 13 16 H 331&111 ~1Su11

ORESODY FGS S CG a CG s s FGS.SZ OP OP-6
AtiAL No. 28 ~3 19 •• 27 ~ H 60 61

wt.\1
5<02 3 26 1 21 14 85 76 :lO 6097 48 41 64 23 8109 9102 98 71
T•02 0.03 002 ( 001 001 ( 0 .01 001 001 001 002 001
M03 0.45 015 022 035 <0 I 000 <0 I 0 20 < 0 I <0 I
Fe2031TI 42 46 47 69 52 17 1396 23 17 2294 1683 811 683 0 14
Ct20J ( 0005 ( 0005 ( 0005 < 0005 ( 0005 <0005 < OC05 ( 0005 ( 0005 < 0005
llri:J 1 13 2 07 189 0 37 0.65 093 031 0 26 001 < 001
!.'<fJ 2 33 1 72 2.20 0 ~5 088 083 ou 081 <0 I <0 I
C40 15 37 1260 0&1 067 1.30 9.71 6 31 315 004 002
Na20 ( 02 020 <02 < 02 026 0 . 11 <02 <02 0 24
( ( 002 ( 002 ( 002 <002
<02
1<.20 002 ( 002 <002 002 002 <002
P205 008 007 002 017 004 008 003 0 .04 0 .11 002
~ ( 0 .005 <0005 ( 0005 <0005 ( 0 .005 <0005 < 0005 < 0005 <0005 < 0005
503 3 37 11 40 015 02 026 820 445
( < 162 <02 <02
LCI :lO 12 2196 21 n 6 62 12 48 8 24 740 • 10 1!.0 012
TOTftl 98 59 9909 99 57 99C2 10010 99 46 100 02 99fo 9985
( 9902

C02 35 98 38e0 32 70 15.17

Corgo<~c 0.67 045 037 043 0 17
s ou 001 • 12 003 060 163 124 0 24

.Au'l~l <5 11 <10 c <10 I

"'J ' CPP1'1 <5 <5

ppm
Sc' 08 04
Cl' 14 < 10
Co ( 10 39 53 ( 10 13 ( 10 ( 10 <10 <10 <10
N• 33 18 16 < 10 10 13 < 10 <10 19 <10
CJ <20 <20 <20 77 <20 <20 <20 <20 <20 <20
Zn 78 54 68 34 34 31 31 16 192 <10
Ga ( 10 ( 10 <10 ( 10 <10 0 ( 10 <10 < 10 <10
/lo.s ( 10 10 2' 5Co 51 67 28 <10 591 14
s.· <5
81' < 1

Rb ( 10 12 <10 < 10 <10 < 10 < 10 <10 <10 <10

Sr l5 40 <10 12 <10 32 31 37 <10 <10
( y ( 10 ( 10 ( 10 <10
<10 < 10 < 10 <10 < 10 <10
lJ 24 ( 10 12 17 26 II 19 26 22 31
(. ( 10 ( 10 < 10 ( 10 <10 ( 10
Nb < 10 <10 <10 <10
Mo ( 10 ( 10 <10 < 10 <10 ( 10 ( 10 <10 <10 <10
Cd ( 10 ( 10 <10 ( 10 <10 ( 10 ( 10 <10 <10 <10
S<l' ( 0 .01 ( 0 .01
Sb ( 10 I 3' 10 < 10 10 ( 10 < 10 <10 12 <10
cs· (2 <2
83 <20 24 <20 <20 <20 37 35 <20 <20 <20
HI' <I ( 1
ra·
If'
<

< 4
1
(.
( 1

W' <5 <5

Hg' <I <1
Pb ( 10 < 10 15 ( 10 <10 14 11 <10 10 <10
Bi <20 <20 <20 <20 <20 <20 <20 <20 <20 <20
Th' ( 0.5 < 0 .5
u· ( 0 .5 ( 0 .5

La' • 7 09
~· 12
Nd' (5 <5
Sm' 08 03
eu· 02 <02
Tb' <05 ( 0 ,5
Yb' oa 06
lu' 0. 15 009

L,O.> IUslattre<l SO~ Fe203 Ill• 1<>'.11 .r0<1

S<.rf' ""0(. SM"(je
0 >nolf!Nl(Ze<l
• ., eMt(S-t<Jtrtm'I\J'nef'ltat~on 8Ch"B)on ene~,s.e s II NAA)
I• ~by f1e-auay
Oreooa~- FGS> Foote GundC SU. B• Ba~<lC~O $s S...-ro:rno CG• CanlO GaiO
 APPENDICES Page 257

Table 11 -20 Chemical compositions of mafic metavolcanics at the Cuiaba Mine.

Tabelle 11 -20 Chemische Zusammensetzung der mafischen Metavulkanite der Cuiaba Mine.

Least auerea Aile rea

SAMPLE 67-1 67-2 37 50 38 l9 49 56

ORE BODY 3N -Voana 3N-Voana SN 8 SN 5N 8 GE
ROCK mba mba mba mba-X2 mba-X2 mba·X2 mba-X2 mba-X2
ANAL. No. 96 97 64 T7 65 66 76 85

wt.%
( Si02 50.20 46 55 47 30 46 16 48 46 47 98 46 17 43.12
T.02 1.89 200 2.07 1 74 2.22 1 79 1 27 1 68
( Al203 1260 13 71 13.95 1206 13 47 11 99 11 06 1213
Fe203 (T) 16.01 17.39 15 51 1600 20 11 1529 1527 1563
Cr203 0 .02 0.02 0 .03 0 .02 002 002 002 003
MnO 0.19 01 9 0 .17 0 23 0. 15 01 3 020 019
MgO 4 65 5.18 629 502 5 43 5 a3 529 604
CaO 8.26 9.5 1 5 .84 12.46 2.72 665 956 632
lla20 281 1.90 420 1.20 1.97 222 1 35 230
K20 0.20 0 .16 0.07 0.02 O.Q3 002 < 002 012
P'205 026 0.30 0 .28 0 24 0 .33 025 018 023
V205 0.05 0.0 5 006 0.05 0.06 005 004 004
503 0.08 0. 43 0 .42 1.38 0 .50 301
( LOt 2 10 258 360 349 460 494
3.66
6 15
3.72
805
TOTAL 99. 51 9997 9980 10007 10007 10016 100.22 9980

C02 0.09 0 .61 2.55 0 .82 508 6 38 929

( C<l<gamc 0.03 0 .12 004 0.06 004 004 004
s 0.31 1.15 006 095 044 063 0 17
H20

( Au' (ppb) 5 9901 8 <10, 550 , <10 I

Ag' (ppm) <5 < 5
(
ppm
Sc' 38 35
Cr' 120 120
Co 49 69 84 56 90 6'3 59 51
Ni 55 67 67 81 60 70 53 131
Cu 75 45 191 49 122 78 67 45
Zn 118 134 195 134 2 18 108 190 138
Ga 22 16 20 19 23 19 19 18
As < 2' 12 <10 15 <10 27 <10 61
Se' <5 <5
Br' < 1 < 1

Rb <10 11 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10

Sr 171 187 93 327 39 123 61 72
y 33 35 32 29 30 29 20 29
Zr 138 146 148 124 135 120 104 125
Nb <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10
Mo <10 <10 <10 < 5' <10 <10 < 10 < 10
Cd <10 <10 < 10 <10 <10 <10 <10 < 10
Sn' < 0,01 < 001
Sb 1.6' 15 <10 6 7' <10 <10 <10 12
Cs' 7 < 2
Sa 305 167 <20 <20 <20 <20 <20
HI' 4 3
Ta' < 1 <1
lr' < 5 <5
w· < 4 <4
Hg' < 1 < 1
Pb <10 <10 <10 <10 13 <10 10 16
Bo <20 <20 <20 <20 <20 <20 <20 <20
Th' 1.3 1.6
u· < 0,5 1.2

La' 11.4 104

l Ce' 33 30
Nd' 23 16
Sm' 4 .3 42
Eu' 15 15
\..__ Th' < 0,5 08
Yb' 4 38
\.. Lu' 0 .59 0.58

'- . =not anal~ F e203 (T)= tela I oren

• = anai)'Wd by o nstru~l31 n~MTon acwaoon anal~ (INA A)
l I = ana l~ by fir&-auay
Orebodan · 3N= 3 lcr.-el, SN= 5 1~1. FGS= Fonte Grande Sui. 8= Sa lando. BF=Balanc ao Foo!wall. GE =Gafon~O<ro Exttnsao
l GF= Gafonheoro Footwall
Rocl<= m ba= upper mall<: meta'-o~c;~noc. mba-X2= anered mahc mel3vo!canacs. Xl·S= !lllered mafoc metavolconocs ""'h sulfodes_ weakly
l sulf>dlled (X2-Sw) and wrth pynt>otrte (po)

l-
l
(
 I '

APPENDICES Page 259

(
I

(
Table 11-2 1 Chemical compositions of the clastic metasediments and metavolcanoclastics of the
Cuiaba Mine. For comparison: data from NASC (Gromet et al. 1984, abundances of Cu,
Zn, Pb after Shaw et al. 1976, V, Y and Nb after Taylor & Mclennan 1985) and av erage
of Chuniespoort Group shales (n= 87, Meyer & Robb 1996).
Tabelle 11 -21 Chemische Zusammensetzung der klastichen Metasedimente und metav ulkano-
klastischen Gesteine der Cuiaba Mi ne.
~rt)()(\Kt'OUS me<a~~~ tlASC Chun•e-spoon.
~ H $$ 10 4$ $1 36 ~ 68 69 fS®th Alnc~l
IREOOOY JN Bf B fGS B 3N BF B B
LAYER XI XI XI Fg Fg-Sw Xs Xs Xs Xs
lt/Al . No. ~ !lA 100 70 78 6:) M 9a 99

wt.~
SoC2 6024 69 <6 53 32 84 39 72 91 28 48 3311 67 02 6415 6480 6043
To02 0 67 0<9 061 0.57 043 2.93 I 21 O<a 050 0 78 0.57
A1203 12 83 101 0 1393 14.62 11 .69 2185 25 71 888 872 1890 14 69
Fe203 rn 9.21 5.72 9 51 165 431 1593 13~ 565 8 87 833 3 15
Cf'203 0. 12 008 011 00~ 004 003 07.1 003 010 O.Q2
Mn0 0.07 OC9 012 0~ 0.02 009 005 011 0 15 000 0.08
Mg() 8. 13 5 ~6 838 1 47 3 25 8:30 11 95 • 75 5 78 2.85 388
~0 091 134 134 253 008 618 007 2.26 360 358 2. 49
Na£0 1 ~~ 28~ 158 069 <02 060 029 062 osa 1.15 0.05
453
K.."'
P205
065
0. 11
0 24
OC9
180
012 000
2.53
0.06
275
0 29
4:!8
005
2.10
007
115
007
3 99
011
7 07
010
V205 0.02 002 002 002 0.0 1 0.08 005 001 002 002 0.02
503 o .sa ou 0.81 092 0~ 4 29 <02 1 75 2.29
lOI 4.95 ~ 18 6 31 865 4~ 8.02 9~ 5 78 564
TOTAl 9991 100 ~3 99.93 10039 100.20 9960 10003 9955 9960 100 52

C02 123 586 18 009 8!\A 2.57 534 546 3 34

Co<gan>e 0.11 0 21 0 191 006 034 021 003 120
s 007 004 013 0.05 019 0<:8 0~ 0 70 0.70
H20 000 0.001 034 0.013

Au•(ppo) 8 10 10 750
Ag '(pgm} <5 <5 <5

ppm
S<;· 12 15 41 15 13
v
Cr' 550 270 1300 I25 328
Co 41 21 -10 <10 :!a 85 15 19 33 26 17
No 418 2".A 391 9-1 47 19 165 193 . 2C7 sa 12s
Cu <20 57 10 47 18 48 37 26 35 14. 3 &1
Zn 1:!8 97 119 8:30 :30 1&4 332 ~ 103 51 9 :!a
Ga 17 I1 15 25 21 31 16 12 11
As <10 .~ 87 16: 5:!8 14a 2U 31 26 28 10
( s.· < s <5 <5
ar• <1 < 1 < I 07
\ Rb 22 <10 81 58 M n 59 39 125 168
Sr 52 M 73 183 ,., 19 129 125 142 22
l y 18 15 16 12 25 42 13 14 17 35 18
Zr 125 110 111 11 : 109 174 96 105 114 200 123
( lib <1 0 <10 <10 <10 <1 0 12 <10 <10 < 10 13 10
ll.o <10 c: s· <10 <10 • 5• c10 < s· <10 <10 3
Cd <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 c10 <10 <10 <10
~ sn• < 0.01 < 0.0 1 < 0.0 1
Sb <10 <10 <10 29 11' <10 <0 <10 <10 2 1 1
\ cs·
a.. 153
<
n
2
279 237
2
118 3.33 l-90
• 6:30 275
52
638
95
728

l Hr 2 2 3 63 3
r.·
,,. <1
< 5
<1
<5
<1
<5
1.1 08

\ w· <4 4 0 21
Hg• <1 <I < 1

\ Pb <10 sa <10 10 2a <1 0 <10 <10 <10 10 7 100

a. <20 <to <<0 <<0 <20 <20 <20 c2Q <20
Th· 32 58 82 12 3 75

' u·
l a•
c.·
13 1
33
2.3

13 I
30
19 4
55
I 4 27

31 1
687
2I

260
586
Nd. 13 10 23 27 4 26 1
t sm• 24 21 48 5.8 . 45
eu· 0.7 00 14 12 09
\ Tb' 06 < 0.5 07 09 05
YO• I 4 1.5 32 31 I8
lu• 023 01 8 0 51 05 02

R aUM
Th/5<; 03 04 02 08 0&
l oiS<; 11 09 OS 21 2.0
Zrf'f 69 73 89 98 44 74 57 88
To/Zr 32 266 33.2 :'90 23 8 75 7 23 4 21 a
lv'Yb 94 87 61 102 10 0
llor'Co 10 2 11 2 98 13 110 2.. 3 7 4
CrN 69 60 59 23 37 57 1.0 3. I
VINo 03 0~ 03 1 • 18 17 22 08
Crflr 6.8 50 e8 H 25 161 06 2. 7

• : noc • natyu<~ Fe203 (T)= totll •ron

• =;a nalyw<j by •nWVm~ntJ: I n~trOtt ~bOt'! an~IY'4't tiNAt\)
O.eood>H JN• 3 ~- FGS= Fonte Granoe S..t. B= B.atanUo BF >B.atancao F..,.,._.,,
Rock= X1 , eart>ONC<; m~pehte Fg. ca,oonKf'OV$ meti~lt. W'th St.~hdH (5'W}, Xs mt~n<XIUDC'S

1·,
 (

(
APPENDICES Page 261

Table 11-23 Chemical compositions of remobilized and sheared BIF-hosted ore samples.
Tabelle 11-23 Chemische Zusammensetzung von an BIF gebundenen remobilisierten und gescherten
Erzproben.

$>o1t Zone !BIF)

Mtut.-e

SAMPLE II 32 4 8 ~~ 1Z H It>: I) Z· l l·l Z-l 1·1 s.z '"'~'

01\EBQOY s 00 FGS B FG 8 G FGS FGS FGS 0 8
LAYEll MS MS FS RS FS FS s FS s RS RS FS
AHALHo. l~ ~9 26 13 10 1~ ~~ l ~ 18 17

wt.ll
Si02 7.87 13 79 370 zs 3~ 9 .17 s 31 9$4 11 10 24.05 94 S9 21 01 30 ~~ 39 24 101 13 37 22 24
noz 0 .01 001 005 0.04 002 0.12 019 006 0.01 0.00 017 029 0.32 0 02 008 0 IS
.AQOJ 0 21 <0 1 0.78 0 77 026 1 ~~ 262 090 <01 <01 4 67 SN 7$4 144 1 64 467
'o203tn 56Jol 4403 4939 40 S! 44t.O $7 H S3 13 !4.56 4 92 3.04 4686 37 69 32.00 Sl&S 47 01 4344
Ct203 < 0.00$ < O.OOS < 0.00$ < 0 00$ <0.~ 001 002 <0~ <0~ <000~ 002 0 03 002 < 0 ~ 001 002
MnO 0. 19 Ol9 0 64 1 .~$ 066 1.42 019 on 0 S3 0. 11 004 0 04 0 &I
M9() 0.&3 100 2.82 2.97 1.77 1 92 192 I 89 0 22 0.78 ""
021 0 S7 06T 'n
0.29
0 76
03
069
CtO 2.91 644 S.41 1.27 6.79 067 293 4 21 38.30 022 0.1& 1.1 4 126 4 00 2. 47 181
No20 <02 0 .67 0 14 < 0.2 < 02 <02 <02 0.19 <0 2 <02 < 02 <02 0 11 0 ~~ 0 zs 026
K20 < 002 0.02 0.10 <002 002 006 020 0 .07 < 0.02 < 0.02 1.19 209 194 008 0.27 1.11
PZO~ on 0 11 0.01 002 029 030 006 0. 1& <002 <0.02 <002 007 0 10 0 09 003 006
V20~ <0003 <0.~ <0.003 <0.~ <0~ 001 0 .01 <0~ <Oc:IOS <0 005 001 001 < o.oos < 0 oos <000 ~ <OOOS
SOl <0.2 225 4 $4 0.79 2.29 <02 oro U6 13.42 0.04 <0 2 047 061 0 sz 3.33 I Ot
LOI 3181 zn~ 2&.70 22 67 2S S2 30 71 lS 2~ 2827 1H4 113 23 42 1690 14 60 30 40 3019 131
TO TAL 100 4~ !19'.)6 !19 37 9913 S.S60 99$4 9984 !1963 S.S10 IOOW 9789 !1936 100 26 !19 99 99Tl !19 $1

C02 4.03 667 1 2 4~ HO 0.88 1 IS 771 30.10 1 19 009 1 48 163 1.73 107
I 0 41
COt90h< 0 II 0. 6~ 0.44 4.22 397 06$ 0.42 027 0.$9 030 0 2~ I l~ 0:1.1
(. s 42. 76 374$ Jol ~9 soe 888 76$ 1413 21 9oS 0.31 0 16 31 12 24 '.)6 21 37 11 17 18 4S 21 41
H20 0.06 002 0.09 0.69 012 000 000 1 19 0.00 0.60
( ...,. (p()I>J 0030 10m 6940 121 ~~ 6730 ~920 109000
/VJ'I~) <s < 5 <~ ~ < ~ < s 46

"""'Sc'
Ct'
u
< 10
u
< 10 < 10
B
<10
39
120
66
210
66
190
H
173

l
Co
Nl
Cu
43
39
1&4
2S
29
71
..
51

$4
11
28
S27
27
44
113
< 10
42
271 m
87
IS!
36
sa
208
< 10
20
<20
<10
<10
<20
S9
439
&7
$3
284
zzs
34
211
308
29
Jol
w
102
liS
11$
61
2!.0
160
lJ1 127 6~ 47 !.07 141 !lS 111 160 13 <10 $1 216 339 92 ZIS 184
< 10 < 10 < 10 <10 <10 <10 < 10 <10 <10 < 10
,.,.
Go
49~7
<10
4S32
< 10
4~ 269 H\2 79 3978 3 790 111 <1 0 42~1
16
2433
16
3656 182$
< 10
1212
<10
1.6n
So' 9 <S <$ ~ <$ < ~ <S ~
( 81' <1 <I <I <I < 1 < I < I <I

l Rb 16 17 37 < 10 10 < 10 22 11 14 <10 4~ w 69 13 16 4$

St !oO 36 !OS < 10 106 11 21 49 131 <10 17 40 3S H 40 42
y < 10 <10 < 10 < 10 12 11 <1 0 <10 < 10 <10 < 10 < 10 < 10 < 10 < 10 <10
l1 sa 22 27 IS 26 26 u 31 2$ 2$ $3 <)5 s~ 19 41 60
Nb < 10 <10 < 10 < 10 < 10 <1 0 <10 < 10 <10 < 10 < 10 < 10 < 10 < 10 <10
Mo <S' <S' 's· < 10 < 10 < 10 <10 <$ 17 <10 < 3' < ~· < ~· < 10 < 10 <~
C4 < 10 <10 < 10 11 < 10 < 10 <10 <10 < 10 <10 11 < 10 < 10 < 10 ( 10 <10
Sn' <0.01 < 0.0 1 <0.01 <001 <0,01 < 0.01 < 0.01 <O Ot
&> 4&' 20 79 < 10 12 <10 39 24 < 10 <10 170 42 JS Sl 70
c s• <2 <2 <2 <2 <2 <2 <2 <2
8.1 37 <20 4J <20 29 26 <20 zs <20 99 161 1 ~9 61 !OS
Hr <1 <1 I <I < 1 2 I 12
To' <1 <1 <I <I <I <1 <1 <I
I(' <3 <S < ~ ~ < ~ < ~ <~ ~
w· <4 120 1 43 13 IS 39 n
Hg' <1 <I <I <I < I <1 <1 <I
Pb 74 10 56 3& 79 17 61 56 31 < 10 3~$ 130 137 144 19}
e; <10 <20 <20 <20 25 <20 <20 <20 < 20 <20 <20 <20 <20 <20 <20
Th' <0~ <05 <05 <O.S <OS 31 34 23
u· <0~ <0$ < O.S <OS < 0.$ < 0.5 < o.s <OS

Lo' I7 26 2.9 24 22 128 75 1~

Co' 3 3 <3 2S 3 30 19 173
N<r <~ <5 <5 ~ <~ 17 <S 13
Stn' OS 0 4 07 06 02 1~ 09 09
Eu' <02 <01 <02 <0 2 <0.2 0 4 <02 02
Tb' <OS <0$ <OS <OS <O.S <OS <0~ <0~
Yb' <0.2 <0.2 < 02 <02 < 0.2 1 <02 04
Lu' <0 0 ~ < 0 0~ <0~ <O.OS < 0 0~ 012 <OOS 006

' ~04 tly ,.,_.,..,""'""""' o<Vvo- IN>(W> (IHM) Fe203! l)s to<aJ oren
•·• na: t'UTtl« oli:Nif\H n.:l fot tUAA I Nt.(W<J riemer1 s. 1\:1' • fot 'W'1 1tr VI t/'lelllono IBIF) It'd n=2 fot Wlltf lll tt.e marie~

\
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( ...
. APPENDICES
I
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I
t
CURRICULUM VITAE

Personal data

Name Luiz Claudio Ribeiro-Rodri gues

Date of birth July 8, 1965
Birthplace lpatinga, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Parents Geraldo Gon<;alves Rodrigues und Adelina Alves Ribeiro Rodrigues
Marital status Single
Nationality Brazilian

Education

197_2-1979 Elementary school in lpati nga, Minas Gerais.

1980-1982 Technical High School in lpatinga.

Metalurgical Technician in November 1982.

1983-1988 Study of geological and mining engineering at the School of Mines of the
Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais.
Geological engineer in August 1988 und mining engineer in Dezember 1988.
Distinctions: The best student of geological engineering (August 1988) and
mining engineering (Oezember 1988) at the Ouro Preto School of Mines.

1989-1992 Master of Science at the Federal University of Brasilia, Brasilia.

M. Sc. in regional and structural geology in Februar 1992.
Thema: "The geological-structural context of the Caraya-Natural Park,
Quadrilatero Ferrifero, Minas Gerais, Brazil".

1993-1997 Ph.D.-student at the Institute of Mineralogy and Economic Geology of the

RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany. Scholarship of the German Academic
Exchange Service (DAAD) (Oktober/1992-Marz/1997) and complementary
scholarship of the Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e
Tecnol6gico (CNPq), Brazil (September/1994-AugusU1996).

Activities

1984-1988 Student assistent at the School of Mines of Ouro Preto.

Participation in practical lectures and in different geological and mining
research projects.
Speleological scientific research in Minas Gerais and Bahia States.

1988 Assistent lecturer at the School of Mines of Ouro Preto.

Proj ect: "Geotectonic context of the Southern Sao Francisco craton".

1989 Assistent lecturer at the Federal University of Brasilia. Participation in practical

lectures of physical geology and geology of Brazil.

1990-1992 Technical director at the geological consulting company GEOBASE-Projetos e

Consultoria em Geologia S/C, Bela Horizonte, Minas Gerais.
Management and participation in environmental, mineral prospection , mining
and civil engineering projects. ·
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