The practice of the zircon typomorphism studies using IR microscopy as applied to forecasting and prospecting for base and precious metals deposits
DOI: 10.47765/0869-5997-2026-10002
Keywords:
zircon, crystal, U-Pb age, structural perfection, hydroxyl groups, adsorbed water, typo- morphism, IR microscopy, IR spectrum, ore deposits.Abstract
A potential effectiveness of IR microscopy in application to forecasting and prospecting for base and precious metals deposits is demonstrated on examples of studying zircon crystals collected at the Mechiveem area (Okhotsk-Chukotka volcanoplutonic belt), Sukhoi Log ore field, and Natalka gold deposit.
An important typomorphic characteristics of zircon, that is determined by IR microscopy, is the degree of structural perfection of the crystals. This diagnostic feature depends on the composition, age, and crystallization conditions of the mineral and serves as one of criteria for distinguishing its generations in exploration areas with multiple zircon sources. For example, in areas of distribution of potentially gold-bearing carbonaceous-terrigenous complexes, newly formed metasomatic zircon whose age coincides with the main ore formation stages is of forecasting and prospecting significance.
One indicator of the zircon hydrothermal transformations intensity, determined by its IR spectra, is the relative content of adsorbed water in the crystal. This feature is most effective for prospecting in areas of relatively young volcanic and intrusive formations.
