Gahnite and its formation in the context of regional metamorphism and mineralization in the Namaqualand metamorphic complex

Gahnite (ZnAl₂O₄) is commonly associated with sulphide mineralization in metamorphosed massive sulphide deposits, and also occurs in marbles, pegmatites and quartz veins. Its formation has been attributed to the breakdown of Zn-staurolite or desulphidation of sphalerite during metamorphism. The stability of zinc-rich spinels under a wide range of metamorphic conditions in a variety of lithologies results in its persistence in rocks where many other prograde, high temperature minerals and sulphides have been altered. Thfs has resulted in various investigations into its use in exploration and potential for determining metamorphic parameters. With the interest in finding new ore bodies and in determining the metamorphic history and mineralogy in Namaqualand, some gahnite-bearing localities have been investigated in this study.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Department of Geological Sciences

Year dc:date.issued

1988

Author dc:creator

• Hicks, Judith Anne

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Reid, A M
• Moore, J M

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11427/22024

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.uct.ac.za:11427/22024