Evaluating the role of the mantle as a source of metals for magmatic-hydrothermal ores in arc systems

Abstract

This communication reviews geochemical data on the sub-arc mantle underlying ore-productive arc crust. We highlight that re-fertilization of the subcontinental lithospheric mantle by subduction-related fluids might be a key factor in forming metal-rich domains that contribute to the formation of parental magmas able to generate large metallogenic provinces in the Earth’s crust. As noted in several other previous works, the optimal alignment of factors to produce these types of deposits embraces three common features: a mantle source region that has been previously enriched in metals (e.g., Au and Cu), trans-lithospheric faults and a tectonic, possible thermal trigger. The results and interpretations we provide here are a complementary view to current crust-related enrichment models.