Characteristics of acid-sulfate alteration in the Marysvale-Pioche mineral belt: a guide to gold mineralization (MP 91-2)

By: A. J. B. Thompson

The zones of extensive acid-sulfate alteration in the Marysvale-Pioche mineral belt have been of interest to explorationists for many years, most recently for their precious metal potential. Based on recent field work, existing information and advances in the understanding of alunite formation these occurrences have been characterized and assessed.

Particular types of acid-sulfate alteration tend to be grouped within three general regions of the Marysvale-Pioche mineral belt: 1) the San Francisco district, 2) the southern Wah Wah Mountains, Shauntie Hills and Black Mountains and 3) the Marysvale district. A locality from each of these areas was studied in detail. The selected occurrences illustrate the presence of both the near surface and magmatic-hydrothermal types of alteration. The alteration in the central portion of the belt has a relatively low potential for associated gold mineralization whereas the San Francisco and Marysvale districts have a moderate to high potential.

Extensive acid-sulfate alteration occurs throughout the Marysvale Pioche mineral belt. Many alteration zones have been explored for a variety of commodities, most recently for precious metals. These acid-sulfate occurrences were investigated and assessed for their relative gold potential. Work included mapping, geochemistry, petrography and literature review.

Other Information:
Published: 1991
Pages: 29 p.
Location: Beaver County
Media Type: Paper Publication