Stratiform copper mineralization in the Proterozoic dolomites of northwestern Queensland, Australia

Union Miniere Dev. Min. Corp. Ltd., North Sydney, Australia

A sequence of Proterozoic dolostones and dolomitic, carbonaceous, and siliceous siltstones in northwestern Queensland contains chalcopyrite mineralization in dolomitic units. The distribution of chalcopyrite relative to primary sedimentary and diagenetic structures indicates localization of copper before or during diagenesis. In places, some relocalization of chalcopyrite occurs during later folding and faulting. Pertinent features of the sedimentary structures, petrology, and major and minor element geochemistry of the rock units are presented together with mineralogical and probe data for sulfide and associated carbonates.The occurrence of bedded units containing chalcopyrite has aided exploration techniques and the interpretation of surface geochemical anomalies.

This record provided courtesy of AGI/GeoRef.