Mineralogical Evolution of a Hydrothermal System
- Key words
- Exploration; Iceland; Mineral; Geology; Geitafell
- Location
- Geitafell, Iceland
- Conference
- Geothermal Resources Council Transactions
- Year
- 1983
- Session
- Exploration; Geological surveys; Hydrothermal alteration; Mi
- Language
- English
Abstract
The evolution of an extinct, deeply eroded hydrothermal system within a Mio-Pliocene central volcano, the Geitafell Volcano in SE Iceland, is evaluated by detailed mapping of stratiographic, tectonic, and intrusive rocks field relations. A relative timescale is established by 12 mapped intrusive phases, to which mineral veins of variable age and amygdale infilling sequences are compared. Similar methods are applicable to presently active geothermal fields provided core samples are available for detailed studies. The purpose of such studies is to sort out the latest hydrothermal mineral deposits which are in closets time relation to the active fluids.
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