The nature of geochemical anomalies associated with the PGE mineralization in the Stella layered intrusion, North West province, South Africa

Masters of ScienceThe redistribution patterns of trace elements related to ore mineralisation in the secondary environment are the foundation of regolith exploration geochemistry. Understanding the controls of these element patterns is important for the detection of underlying ore deposits, especially in areas where bedrock is concealed by extensive regolith. The study area, which hosts PGE and gold deposits within the Stella Layered Intrusion is one such area. A major aim of this study was to use major element data to characterise the regolith materials enclosing the PGE mineralisation in the Stella Layered Intrusion to ascertain the degree of weathering that has occurred. Furthermore, the study aimed to relate the weathering patterns in regolith to the distribution of pathfinder elements of PGEs and gold in areas proximal and distal to the mineralised zones. The study was conducted using XRF data, which included major oxide and trace element data. These data were used to characterise regolith materials (scatter plots, K/Al versus Mg/Al plots) and calculating indices that determine the degree of weathering such as CIA and ICV indices as well as A-CN-K and A-CN-FM diagrams. Signatures of pathfinder/ trace elements were enhanced by hydroxylamine hydrochloride partial selective leach technique. The distribution patterns of the partial leach data were compared to the intensity of weathering and weathering products, e.g. manganese oxides, carbonates in areas proximal and distal to the ore zone. In the Serpens North Prospect, the major horizons that were identified include saprolith, stone line and aeolian sands. Incipient calcrete formation occurs in some parts of the Sirius Prospect, while in some parts, well developed, thick calcrete layers are found interlayered with the saprolith and aeolian sand