The stages and duration of formation of gold mineralization at copper-skarn deposits (Altai–Sayan folded area)

Abstract Gold mineralization at copper-skarn deposits (Tardanskoe, Murzinskoe, Sinyukhinskoe, Choiskoe) in the Altai–Sayan folded area is related to different hydrothermal-metasomatic formations. It was produced at 400–150 ºC in several stages spanning 5–6 Myr, which determined the diversity of its mineral assemblages. Gold mineralization associated with magnetite bodies is spatially correlated with magnesian and calcareous skarns, whereas gold mineralization in crushing zones and along fault sutures in moderate- and low-temperature hydrothermal-metasomatic rocks (propylites, beresites, serpentinites, and argillizites) is of postskarn formation. Different stages were manifested with different intensities at gold deposits. For example, the Sinyukhinskoe deposit abounds in early high-temperature mineral assemblages; the Choiskoe deposit, in low-temperature ones; and the Tardanskoe and Murzinskoe deposits are rich in both early and late gold minerals. Formation of commercial gold mineralization at different copper-skarn deposits is due to the combination of gold mineralization produced at different stages as a result of formation of intricate igneous complexes (Tannu-Ola, Ust’-Belaya, and Yugala) composed of differentiated rocks from gabbros to granites.