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Geological, mineralogical, and petrological observations are reported for hornfels-like fine-grained granular mafic rocks in the Early Paleozoic Olkhon collisional orogen (West Baikal area, Russia). The rocks are composed of orthopyroxene, clinopyroxene, amphibole, plagioclase, and ilmenite; some samples also contain olivine, phlogopite, spinel, and titanomagnetite (Opx+Cpx+Amp+Pl+Ilm±Ol±Bt±Spl±Ti-Mag). There are three occurrences of these rocks in the area: a 500 m × 1000 m field in the Shirokaya Valley, another occurrence within the Tazheran Massif (a complex of igneous and metamorphic rocks), and dismembered dikes on the southern margin of the Birkhin gabbro intrusion. The Shirokaya field is located between two 500 Ma intrusions of the Birkhin gabbro; the Tazheran occurrence coexists with syenite, including nepheline syenite, subalkaline gabbro, and marble protrusions; and the dismembered dikes coexist with carbonates and display progressive alteration of dolerite through typical granular varieties. The dikes associated with granite and marble veins mark a part of a large arc-shaped shear zone that traverses the whole intrusive body produced by rotation of a rigid gabbro block during the peak of tectonic deformation at 470–460 Ma. All three occurrences of the hornfels-like rocks lack any evident source of heat that would be responsible for the thermal alteration of the igneous protolith. We hypothesize that the precursor, subvolcanic dolerite, may have undergone autometamorphism maintained by self-generated heat. Mafic magma intruded during high-rate strike–slip faulting, which caused rapid recrystallization of magmatic minerals and produced the observed metamorphic structures. Proceeding from the controversy in the formation mechanisms, with a heat source required for hornfels but lacking from the sampled occurrences of hornfels-like rocks, we suggest identifying the latter as beerbachite, though the term has mostly fallen into disuse. The reason is that the Olkhon rocks we study have a mineralogy, structure, and texture that are perfectly identical to those of beerbachites described in publications from the first half of the 20th century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The data on the main (Arsent'evskii, Orongoiskii, Kizirskii, Chineiskii, Patynskii, and Kharlovskii) massifs of stratiform anorthosite deposits in Russia and their location data are given. The problems of classification, petrography, petrochemistry, and mineralogy of these anorthosites are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 360–370 Ma old Lovozero massif (NW Russia) is a layered nepheline syenitic-foidolitic pluton. Despite its huge size (650 km2), the massif is surrounded by a narrow fenite aureole, and the most intensive fenitization is associated with pegmatites and hydrothermal veins that have intruded into the wall rocks. We studied petrography, petrochemistry, mineralogy and fluid inclusions along a profile crossing the direct contact of the Lovozero massif with country Archean gneiss. We found that the fluid responsible for fenitization was a heterogeneous mixture of two coexisting phases, an aqueous fluid with salinity 8.6–15.1 eq. wt.% NaCl and a methane fluid. The coexistence of these two fluids indicates immiscibility conditions at (or below) CH4–H2O solvus. The aqueous fluid affected both the endocontact alkaline rocks and country gneiss. In the endocontact, intense autometasomatic alterations of the early crystallized minerals occurred, for example, the natrolitization of nepheline and sodalite. Besides, the aqueous fluid transported Na2O, K2O, as well as P2O5, TiO2, H2O, F, Cl and S into the exocontact. These components were precipitated in the immediate vicinity of the massif contact, and the salinity of the aqueous fluid decreased to 0.53–3.06 eq. wt.% NaCl. We assume that there are two reasons for a narrow fenite aureole in the Lovozero massif: intense autometasomatic alterations and a decrease in the permeability of country rocks due to fluid immiscibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of geological, geochemical, and geochronological studies of granophyre rocks from the Jarva-Varaka Massif (Kola region) are presented. The 2-km section of the massif is composed of mafic and felsic norites, hypersthene diorite, pigeonite-augitic diorite, quartz diorite, and granodiorite. All these rocks contain a variable amount of granophyre (micropegmatite), from ~10% in norites that compose the lower part of the massif, to ~45% in quartz diorite and granodiorite of the upper part. The Sudbury Igneous Complex (SIC) is the only known case of a similar 2-km thick section of granophyre rocks whose composition varies from mafic at the bottom to felsic at the top. The SIC has an impact origin, which suggests a similar formation mechanism for the Jarva-Varaka Massif. The norites contain micro-xenoliths of the host high-alumina gneisses, which were transformed to rocks of the high-grade hornfels facies. Such gneisses are absent among the country rocks of other mafic intrusions in the area, and it suggests that the parental melt for mafic norites could have assimilated the host rocks. Given the relatively small size of the massif, the formation of hornfelses could have occurred if the xenoliths would be entrained by a melt under near-surface conditions, and the melt was hot enough to cause the formation of hornfelses. Spinifex-like structures in the diorites of the very marginal contact zone of the Jarva-Varaka Massif indicate very rapid cooling of a high-temperature melt, which is typical of near-surface conditions. A pseudotachylitic breccia, planar deformations in quartz, kink-bands in biotite and clinozoisite, zircon and inclusions of sillimanite and plagioclase all transformed into diaplectic glasses detected in the host rocks of the Jarva-Varaka Massif are interpreted as distinct signs of shock metamorphism. Geophysical data show no signs that beneath the Jarva-Varaka Massif there exists a large mafic intrusion that could have contaminated large volumes of crustal material, and magmatic differentiation of which could have produced a large volume of enriched melt whose crystallization could resulted in the formation of granophyre rocks from the bottom to the top of the magma chamber. All of the aforementioned data indicate that the impact origin of the 2.5 Ga Jarva-Varaka Massif is very likely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This essay focuses on the emergence and development of the concept of faktura in Russia. The term can be translated by the French term "facture" which is frequently used in art history, denoting how a thing is made. The English translation of faktura as "texture" is less satisfactory. The author argues that faktura or facture was fundamental to the development of modernism in Russia. He analyzes the statements of Kazimir Malevich and his artist colleagues concerning facture and Paul Cezanne's works and argues that Malevich's analysis of Cezanne's surfaces – his pigments, colors, brushstrokes, stratigraphy – shaped modernism and sparked a shift away from tangible materi-al textures to immaterial Suprematist facture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of the petrographic and geochemical studies of igneous rocks of the Medvedev and Taezhniy massifs, including their first absolute dating. The massifs are located in central Nimnyr block of the n shield within the Leglier ore cluster of the Evotinskiy ore district (Southeast Russia, Aldan Shield). For the first time, the three-phase structure of the Medvedev massif has been defined, as observed in our expedition and petrographic studies. Rocks from the three phases of the Medvedev massif include quartz syenites, syenites, and monzonites, and rocks from the two phases of the Taezhniy massif include quartz monzonites and syenites. Geochemically, the rocks are close to volcanic island arcs, the formation of which was related by subducted oceanic crust of the Mongol–Okhotsk Ocean. The defined duality of the geochemical compositions of the igneous rocks of the massifs may be due to the presence of both mantle and crustal sources; however, it is most likely that these rocks resulted from the melting of a mixed mantle source or the latter was contaminated by the crust with further differentiation of melts in intermediate crust chambers. Additionally, geochemical characteristics suggest that the analyzed rocks are close to latite and shoshonite derivatives and can be considered as part of the monzonite–syenite formation type. The first identified periods of formation of igneous rocks in the Medvedev massif are 122.0–118.0 Ma and Taezhniy 117.5–114.5 Ma, which correspond to the Early Cretaceous (Aptian). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the results of studying the aegirine–arfvedsonite granites of the Somnitelnyi massif within the Tommot ore field located in the Verkhoyansk–Kolyma orogenic belt (NE Asia). Along with the crustal signatures, the rocks display features of mantle contamination at their origin. Their affinity for A-type granites characteristic of continental rifts and hot spots is shown. The associated Tommot REE deposit is the only one discovered in NE Russia. New data are presented for the previously studied Tommot massif within the same ore field, with a wide compositional range from alkaline-ultrabasic rocks to alkaline syenites. It is established that despite a common geochemical enrichment of both massifs' rocks with REEs, the Somnitelnyi massif granites cannot be interpreted as the final phase of the Tommot massif emplacement. Specific REE mineralization and high crystallization temperatures (up to 1045 °C) of the Somnitelnyi granites may be explained by the existence within the study area of an undepleted mantle source ("hot spot"), whose maximum activity occurred during the granitic melt generation. The ore bodies of the Tommot deposit consist of fenitized albitites, granite gneisses, and, more rarely, the cross-cutting pegmatite veins. They are confined mostly to exocontacts of the Somnitelnyi massif, are less often in its endocontacts, and are not found in the host rocks and in the inner part of the massif away from the contacts. Principal ore minerals are chevkinite, yttrialite, gadolinite, and fergusonite. Based on the data obtained, the deposit is classified as a metasomatic complex Ce–Y–Nb–Zr deposit associated with the alkaline granites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper studies sediments from Lake Tikozero that have accumulated successively in the littoral of Lake pre‐Imandra, Imandra lagoon, and an open lake isolated from a parental freshwater body. The 'Apatity' bog was concurrently formed on the Lake Imandra coast. Lithological, 14C, pollen and diatom data and findings of previous investigations provide the regional Holocene stratigraphy, which is subdivided into the early (c. 11 550–8200 cal a bp), middle (c. 8200–4000 cal a bp) and late (last 4000 cal a bp) Holocene sub‐stages. In the early Holocene, environments became favourable for diatoms after c. 9700 cal a bp. Birch phytocoenoses and pine forests with birch flourished in the area. In the middle Holocene, the west‐central Kola Peninsula was covered by a pine‐birch forest with alders. Lake Tikozero became shallow and desiccated in a warm and dry climate between c. 6300 and 4000 cal a bp; and a Sphagnum raised bog developed in the adjacent area, provoked by lowering of the water table. Spruce appeared in a pine‐birch forest and indicates a colder and wetter climate in the late Holocene. The flooding of Lake Imandra created a number of new small lakes; and fens occurred along the wet shores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Origin of abundant alkaline and related lamproite massifs and dykes in Aldan shield have no explanation and the geochemistry of rocks and their xenocrysts is used for the explanation. Bulk-rock geochemistry, mineral chemistry data of the Kayla lamproites of Russia and mineral chemical data (trace and rare elements) of the mantle xenocrysts found in these lamproites was studied using ICP MS and electron microprobe analyses (EPMA). The trace element spectrum of Kayla tuffs and breccias show the similarity with the olivine lamproites and belong to the orogenic type according to Th–U–Nb systematics. Primitive mantle normalized trace element (TRE) spider diagrams show right-leaning patterns with the peaks in large ion lithophile elements Sr, Pb, U, and troughs in Ta, Nb suggesting melting of original peridotites mixed with the ancient EMI (according to Nd, Sr isotopes) source probably belonging to eclogites or lower crust. The age of the emplacement is 132–134 Ma, similar to the Chompolo lamprophyres and many other alkaline Aldan complexes. Thermo-barometric estimation from Cr-diopsides and chromites xenocrysts suggest the origin from the spinel-garnet transition in the lithospheric mantle region. The P–T estimates derived from low-Cr-clinopyroxene xenocrysts, and related to lamproites show a high heat flow of 90 mW/m2 due to interaction with the plume-related magma. The Cr-diopsides and chromites give 45 mW/m2 geotherm similar to regional heat flow. The chondrite normalized rare earth element (REE) pattern for chrome-diopsides is steeper, compared to the low-chrome varieties. Primitive mantle normalized spidergram of Cr-diopsides displays peaks for Sr, U, and Th, and deep troughs of Nd, Nb, Ta. REE. The trace element spider diagrams of both types of xenocrysts show that they were equilibrated with the lamproitic melts and reconstructed parental melts of low-Cr-clinopyroxene coincides with the lamproite spectrums. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on the relationship between the mineralogical composition of hydrothermal mineralization and the structure and lithology of host units with specific reference to the Kolyma passive continental-margin terrane (Northeast Asia). The long geological history of the terrane was shown to be reflected in the geochemical specialization and distribution patterns of gold–rare metal and porphyry copper mineralization. The Proterozoic host units of the Kolyma region influenced the geochemistry and isotope composition of the ores. The imbricate–thrust structure of the terrane was formed in the Precambrian and underwent several episodes of reworking in the Phanerozoic, thus contributing to the repeated rejuvenation of the ores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents results of petrological and geochemical studies of sulfide-bearing rocks from a bottom apophysis in the central part of the Yoko-Dovyren massif, northern Transbaikalia, Russia. It is composed of plagioperidotite and was sampled in a bulge up to 300 m thick throughout the whole vertical section, from its upper to lower contact. The observed diversity of sulfide-bearing rocks is subdivided into four types: (1) picrodolerite with droplet-shaped sulfides, (2) olivine gabbronorite with sulfides varying from droplet-shaped to irregular globules, (3) olivine gabbronorite with larger globules and patchy net-textured domains, and (4) net-textured ores. These varieties occur in the basal zone of the apophysis, in the interval up to 30 m inward from the lower contact. Petrographic features of these rocks correspond to olivine ortho- and mesocumulates, with the only exception of the quenched picrodolerite with an ophitic groundmass. The association of sulfides (pyrrhotite, chalcopyrite, pentlandite, and cubanite) has a pretty little varying composition, except only a relative decrease in the proportion of chalcopyrite in samples with more than 5% sulfides. The results of X-ray computed tomography show an increase in the sulfide connectivity in the rocks (from 25 to 95%) with increasing sulfide abundance. These characteristics, supported by visualized 3D models, allowed us to identify a morpho-structural trend tended from the rocks with sulfide droplets to the net-textured ores. The first ever data were obtained on the chemostratigraphy (PGE and tellurium) of rocks composing this apophysis. Covariations of Au, Pt and Pd with S and Te indicate that the precious metals have a single sulfide precursor. The 100%-sulfide compositions calculated for these rocks indicate that the most primitive and PGE rich sulfides correspond to droplets it the lowerest part of the apophysis, whereas the net-textured ores are depleted in these elements. The geochemical estimates are supported with COMAGMAT-5 modeling which made it possible to calculate the average Au, PGE, and Te contents in the protosulfide melt (in ppm): 2.9 Au, 14.4 Pt, 25.1 Pd, and 44.3 Te. Results of the geochemical studies of different fragments of the net-textured ores reveal a heterogeneity in the form of domains relatively enriched in copper, PGE, and tellurium, whose characteristic size is a few dozen centimeters. This can be considered as a signature of the porous migration and accumulation of the crystallization products of the original sulfide liquid at the subsolidus stage of cooling down the ore-bearing cumulates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary formation of soil spatial heterogeneity of young surfaces is not well studied. Along the coast of the Caspian Sea, due to the constant sea-level changes of this closed water basin, young soilscapes have formed in the last centuries. The variability and the spatial pattern of soil salinity were studied at two key sites located at the coast of Russia (northern Dagestan) and Iran (northern Golestan) at the same altitude of 25.5 m below sea level, or 2.5 m above the present-day level of the Caspian Sea. The age of surface deposits is 50–70 years old at the Iranian coast (Gomishan-1) and 293 ± 13 years calBP at the Russian coast (Caspii-2). The soils at both key sites are weakly developed strongly saline soils (Gleyic Solonchaks). The key sites have similar aridity and lithology with different vegetation and microtopography: the Gomishan-1 site has a smooth microtopography and homogeneous vegetation, and the Caspii-2 site has a pronounced microtopography and diverse vegetation. Approx. 60 boreholes at each site were sampled twice to the depth of 1 m in autumn 2017 and 0.5 m in spring 2018. The electrical conductivity (1:2.5) was measured in soil samples. At both key sites, the spatial and seasonal salt translocation is well pronounced. The variability of soil salinity grows by the end of the dry and hot season (September/October). The mean, median and variance differ between two sites in spring and become similar between two sites in autumn, which shows that the seasonal drying of coastal soils leads to the formation of similar heterogeneity under similar aridity and lithology despite the differences in vegetation and microtopography. Even with the strong seasonal dynamics at both key sites, there are clear trends in these changes, which show that the spatial pattern is stable in time. The analysis of the relationship between salinity patterns and vegetation has shown that there is no such correlation at both key sites. The analysis of the relationship between salinity patterns and microtopography has shown that there is no such correlation at the younger site (Gomishan-1 , Iran) and there is a moderate correlation at the more mature site (Caspii-2, Russia) where soil salinity is inversely dependent on the microtopography (R2 = 0.21 ... 0.46). The overview of the facts obtained in this study as well as in the published literature led us to the conclusion that the formation of spatial heterogeneity in soil salinity chronologically precedes the spatial distribution of vegetation and microtopography at the coastal area of the Caspian Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Major and trace element compositions of garnet, clinopyroxene, orthopyroxene, phlogopite, and ilmenite from garnet peridotite, ilmenite-bearing peridotite (dunites), and clinopyroxene–phlogopite xenoliths, as well as megacrysts of these minerals from the Grib kimberlite, Arkhangelsk diamond province, Russia, have been analyzed. These data are used to propose a model for mantle metasomatism of lithospheric mantle by kimberlite melts, including their generation and evolution, geochemical enrichment of depleted lithosphere mantle, and formation of megacrystic assemblage. The lithospheric mantle beneath the Arkhangelsk diamond province, from its base (depth ~180–210 km) to a depth of ~100–120 km (corresponding to a pressure of 3.5 GPa) experienced extensive metasomatism along the main kimberlite melt channel. Petrography of the peridotite xenoliths indicates a progressive refertilization of depleted harzburgite into garnet lherzolite, phlogopite–garnet wehrlite, and clinopyroxene–phlogopite rocks. Metasomatic refertilization occurred shortly before the capture of these xenoliths by the kimberlite melt. The model melt compositions calculated from garnet–clinopyroxene equilibria in different types of xenoliths and megacrysts show that alkaline–carbonate–ultramafic kimberlite melt acted as a metasomatic agent in the sheared peridotite at the base of the lithospheric mantle. High-Ti garnet and high-Cr clinopyroxene megacrysts in the middle part of the lithospheric mantle, as well as the main volume of garnet lherzolite xenoliths were formed in geochemical equilibrium with the kimberlite melts, which demonstrate an increase of silicate components and fractionation of Fe–Ti phases. The modification could be related to the interaction of ascending carbonate-rich protokimberlite melts with surrounding lithospheric mantle. The similarities in the compositions of garnet, clinopyroxene, phlogopite, and ilmenite megacrysts with minerals of peridotite xenoliths in the Grib kimberlite suggest that these megacrysts are disintegrated fragments of coarsest grained metasomatized garnet lherzolite, ilmenite-bearing peridotite, and clinopyroxene-phlogopite mantle rocks or formed under the same conditions as xenoliths or directly crystallized from metasomatic melts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strong explosive eruptions of volcanoes throw out mixtures of gases and ash from high-pressure underground reservoirs. Investigating these subsurface reservoirs may help to forecast and characterize an eruption. In this study, we compare seismic tomography results with remote sensing and petrology data to identify deep and subaerial manifestations of pre-eruptive processes at Bezymianny volcano in Kamchatka shortly before its violent explosion on December 20, 2017. Based on camera networks we identify precursory rockfalls, and based on satellite radar data we find pre-eruptive summit inflation. Our seismic network recorded the P and S wave data from over 500 local earthquakes used to invert for a 3D seismic velocity distribution beneath Bezymianny illuminating its eruptive state days before the eruption. The derived tomography model, in conjunction with the presence of the high-temperature-stable SiO2 polymorph Tridymite in juvenile rock samples , allowed us to infer the coexistence of magma and gas reservoirs revealed as anomalies of low (1.5) and high (2.0) Vp/Vs ratios, respectively, located at depths of 2–3 km and only 2 km apart. The reservoirs both control the current eruptive activity: while the magma reservoir is responsible for episodic dome growth and lava flow emplacements, the spatially separated gas reservoir may control short but powerful explosive eruptions of Bezymianny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithological features of intermoraine aquatic sediments were studied to assess the possibilities of their application for the stratigraphic subdivision and correlation, as well as paleogeographic reconstructions and localization of the terrigenous provenances during the formation of these sediments. Results of the lithological study of Quaternary aquatic sediments in the European subarctic part of Russia represented by various genetic types of sediments, often with very specific features, are presented. Based on the textural and structural characteristics in the Neopleistocene sequence, alluvial, lacustrine, fluvioglacial, and limnoglacial sediments are revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Petrological, whole-rock major and trace element, and Sr–Nd–Pb isotopic data are reported for the late Mesozoic Dzheltula alkaline igneous complex in the Aldan–Stanovoy Shield, Russia. The alkaline rocks are emplaced into the Tyrkanda mélange zone. The Dzheltula complex consists of monzonites, foid monzonites, and alkaline syenites; granite dykes intrude the complex. All alkaline rocks have high LILE contents (e.g., Ba and Sr), high light REE/HFSE ratios, strongly fractionated REE patterns, and typically lack Eu anomalies. Granite shows different major and trace-element characteristics in comparison to monzonites and syenites. The major and trace-element characteristics of the Dzheltula complex rocks and minerals are consistent with formation by combined assimilation and fractionation processes of an alkaline parental magma of lamproitic composition. The alkaline rocks have moderately radiogenic Sr (87Sr/86Sr(t) = 0.7057–0.7065) and unradiogenic Nd (ɛNd(t) = − 11.3 to − 15.2) and Pb (206Pb/204Pb = 17.17–17.26); granite has more enriched 87Sr/86Sr(t) value (0.707408) but similar ɛNd(t) = − 12.93 The trace element and Sr–Nd–Pb isotopic data for the Dzheltula complex indicate its mantle source experienced ancient metasomatic enrichment, probably associated with subduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lower Eocene sediments from the classical Paleogene section exposed along the Kheu River, northern Caucasus, southern Russia are here studied. This ca. 50m thick succession is lithologically contrasting: the lower and upper parts are composed by soft marls separated by a thick Radiolaria-rich unit of non-calcareous and low-calcareous mudstones with intercalations of compact cherty layers. According to nannofossil and dinocyst biostratigraphy, the unique intercalation of Total Organic Carbon (TOC)-rich sediment (sapropelitic bed) in the lower part of the lower Eocene correspond to the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) and a series of sapropelitic interlayers in the upper marly part of the lower Eocene succession correlates with the Early Eocene Climatic Optimum (EECO). The study of nannofossil and dinocyst assemblages enabled detailed zonal subdivision and first-order calibration of nannofossil and dinocyst bio-events during this time-span. The studied interval of the section embraces the complete succession of nannofossil zones NP9-NP13 of Martini, 1971, CP8-CP11 of Okada and Bukry, 1980 and CNP11-CNE5 of Agnini et al., 2014. By means of dinocyst stratigraphy, the succession of Apectodinium hyperacanthum, Axiodinium augustum, Deflandrea oebisfeldensis, Dracodinium astra, Stenodinium meckelfeldense, Dracodinium varielongitudum, Ochetodinium romanum/Samlandia chlamydophora and Areosphaeridium diktyoplokum zones are identified in the Ypresian part of the Kheu section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• High-pressure granulite facies metamorphism occurred at ca 1.91–1.92 Ga in the Belomorian Eclogite Province with the P-T conditions of 11–12 kbar/870–900 °C. • Amphibolite facies metamorphism has been recorded by titanite at ca 1.86 Ga with the P-T conditions of 8–10 kbar/650–710 °C. • The clockwise P-T path includes the thermal relaxation and nearly isobaric cooling. Combined geochronology with phase equilibria modeling, the P-T-t evolution of metamorphic rocks can be deciphered. Four different representative samples, including retrogressed eclogite, garnetite, paragneiss and tonalite–trondhjemite–granodiorite (TTG) gneiss have been selected for detailed petrography and U/Pb dating from the Belomorian Eclogite Province in Russia. Zircon cores yield Archean ages for the protoliths of these samples. Zircon rims of the TTG gneiss have recorded Neoarchean anataxis at ca 2.73 Ga, whereas 1.91–1.92 Ga zircon rims of the garnetite and the paragneiss have dated high-pressure granulite facies metamorphism. Titanite in the retrogressed eclogite has recorded amphibolite facies retrogression at ca 1.86 Ga. Phase equilibria modelings for retrogressed eclogite, garnetite, and paragneiss define P-T conditions of 17–18 kbar/below 790 °C for the peak eclogite facies metamorphism, 11–12 kbar/870–900 °C for the high-pressure granulite facies metamorphism, and 8–10 kbar/650–710 °C for titanite's stability which corresponds to the amphibolite facies metamorphism. A clockwise P-T path is inferred for the Salma-type eclogite, which is characterized by thermal relaxation from the peak eclogite facies to the high-pressure granulite facies, and nearly isobaric cooling from the high-pressure granulite facies to the amphibolite facies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The magmatic rocks are represented by syenites and lamprophyres. • The age of syenites is 131.4 ± 1.5 (2.9) Ma. • The lamprophyres were formed at 134.9 ± 1.6, 132.3 ± 1.5 and 117.7 ± 3.4 Ma. • The ore mineralization is presented by the telluride-gold type. Late Mesozoic Upper Amga alkaline rocks are located in the Amga tectonic mélange zone within the Aldan-Stanovoy shield, Russia. The main phases of the Upper Amga complex consist of alkaline syenite intrusions as well as the lamprophyre dikes and sills. The mineralogical features indicate that the lamprophyre may belong to minette. Recent geological works revealed the linear and area-specific geochemical gold anomalies in association with late Mesozoic alkaline magmatism in the Upper Amga gold district. The age of the syenite intrusions is 131.4 ± 1.5 (2.9) Ma, and the lamprophyre sills and dikes were formed at 134.9 ± 1.6, 132.3 ± 1.5 and 117.7 ± 3.4 Ma. The mineralization is represented by the REE-Ti-Th, polymetallic (sulfide) and telluride-gold types in the quartz-calcite-chlorite alteration of the main magmatic phases of the alkaline rocks. The fluid inclusions study shows that the sulfides were formed from hydrothermal fluids of CO 2 -N 2 -NaCl-H 2 O composition at temperatures ranging from 390 to 340 °C, with 44–22.7 wt% NaCl-eq, whereas the epithermal telluride-gold mineralization originated from low-temperature CO 2 ± N 2 -NaCl-H 2 O fluids, with the homogenization temperature of 230–210 °C and a of 9.2–3.3 wt% NaCl-eq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The petrogenesis of temporally and spatially associated carbonatitic and deeply derived carbonated alkaline silicate magmas provides an opportunity to gain insights into the nature of the deepest lithospheric mantle. The Chuktukon massif, which is part of the Chadobets alkaline ultramafic carbonatite complex (Chadobets upland, Siberian craton) is a carbonatite-melilitite-damtjernite intrusion, whose emplacement was coeval with the Siberian Traps large igneous province (LIP). In this study, the sources of the primary melts are examined, the petrogenetic evolution of the complex is reconstructed and the relationship with the Siberian LIP is also discussed. Isotopic and geochemical information indicate that the source for the Chuktukon primary melts was isotopically moderately depleted and the primary melts were formed by low degree partial melting of garnet carbonated peridotite. Hydrothermal processes caused 18O- and 13C- enrichment. The weathering process was accompanied by trace element re-distribution and enrichment of the weathering crust in Zn, Th, U, Nb, Pb and REE, relative to the Chuktukon rocks and a change in radiogenic (Sr, Nd) isotope compositions. Highlights • The primary melts were derived from an isotopically depleted mantle source. • The primary melts were formed by low degree partial melting of carbonated peridotite. • The partial melting was under the influence of heat from the Siberian plume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The paper presents new age and petrological-geochemical data on the rocks of the Valovayam River area (Kamchatka Isthmus) and some areas of the Sredinny Range of Kamchatka (Orlov Volcano, Polovinnaya, Stolbovaya, and Matera mountains). Analysis of the obtained data shows that the spatial and temporal association of the intraplate and island-arc volcanism in the Valovayam River area is not accidental, but resulted from melting of a common source related to the mantle diapir. Additional data on the composition of the mantle xenoliths and the traces of their melting in the form of residual glasses make it possible to relate the formation of different rock series into a single process. A two-stage petrogenetic model is proposed: (1) formation of “black pyroxenites” as a result of melting of mantle lherzolites and (2) formation of the whole rock assemblage through melting of the same lherzolites and newly formed pyroxenites. The concurrent study of the rocks of similar age from the Valovayam River area and the Sredinny Range allows us to distinguish two types of adakites: high-Si adakites (HSA) in the former area and low-Si adakites (LSA) in the latter. The formation of the first type is related to the fractionation, melting, and breakdown of amphibole, while the formation of the second type was controlled by the fractionation and melting of pyroxene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the results of the first comprehensive petrological study of mafic enclaves widespread in the products of recent (2006-2012) eruptions of Bezymianny Volcano, Kamchatka. Four types of mafic enclaves were distinguished on the basis of the composition and morphology of minerals, P-T conditions of formation of mineral assemblages, and structural and textural characteristics of the rocks. Disequilibrium assemblages of mafic enclaves indicate a complex structure of the magmatic plumbing system of the volcano, including a shallow chamber with andesite-basaltic andesite magmas and a deep reservoir filled in part with plagioclase-hornblende cumulates and fed by basic magmas with mantle harzburgite xenoliths. The mafic enclaves were formed at different levels of the magmatic plumbing system of the volcano and correspond to different degrees of mixing of interacting magmas. The most abundant enclaves were formed during magma ascent from the deep reservoir (960-1040°C, 5-9 kbar) into the shallow andesitic chamber (940-980°C). Enclaves of plagioclase-hornblende cumulates from the basic magmas feeding the deep reservoir ( T > 1090°C and P > 9 kbar) are much less common. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The petrographic composition of boulder-pebble material from numerous till sections of the Timan-Pechora-Vychegda region was scrutinized to establish locations of glacial provenances and pathways of the terrigenous material transport during different Neopleistocene glaciations. Analysis of a great body of factual materials confirmed high feasibility of the application of petrographic data on the coarse-clastic material and the ratio of distal and proximal components in tills for their subdivision and correlation. The most reliable and regionally consistent criteria are represented by index boulders and orientation of elongated rock clasts, as well as isotope datings of rock clasts in till horizons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the petrography, bulk major and trace elements, and isotopic compositions for the recently identified Mohnatye Roga agpaitic syenite dyke, located 30 km from the Kovdor carbonatite complex, Kola Peninsula, Russia. The dyke was identified below Quaternary deposits as the result of a gravimetric survey and subsequent drilling. A K–Ar age on lamprophyllite of 368 ± 9 Ma, coincides with the age of the Devonian Kola Alkaline Carbonatite Province (KACP). In the total alkalis vs. silica diagram, the Mohnatye Roga dyke exhibits a compositional trend from lamprophyre to peralkaline phonolite as well as mineralogical and geochemical affinities with the nearby Niva intrusion. The dyke is composed of orthoclase, Ti-rich aegirine-augite, aenigmatite, lamprophyllite-group minerals, K-amphibole, and astrophyllite with accessory noonkanbahite, calcite, ilmenite, rutile, barite, apatite, and sulfides. Late stage minerals include natrolite and ferripyrophyllite. A notable feature of this dуke is its extremely high agpaicity and enrichment in HFSEs (high-field strength elements). The concentrations of a number of HFSEs are higher in this dyke than in the Lovozero rare metal deposit. Mohnatye Roga dyke and Niva intrusion are examples of a gradual transition from melt to hydrothermal fluid. Isotopic data indicate a mantle source for the dyke, and seemingly an absence of contamination by continental crust during its formation. The geochemical and isotopic data suggest that the source of the KACP rocks, including the Mohnatye Roga dyke, is FOZO mantle which is believed to be related to plume magmatism. [Display omitted] • Origin and age of the recently identified lamprophyllite-bearing agpaitic syenite Mohnatye Roga dyke (Kola peninsula) • Great similarity with the Niva intrusion and the link to Devonian Kola Alkaline Carbonatite province • Agpaitic SiO 2 -undersatured melts preserving the depleted FOZO plume signature • Enrichment in HFSEs of Mohnatye Roga dyke and comparison with gigant Lovozero and Khibiny deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geological investigations in the offshore area of eastern Russian Arctic attracted an increased interest in the recent years. Data concerning organic and coal petrology is scarce for the shelf and offshore area of the eastern Russian Arctic. Consequently, thermal maturity and depositional environments of sedimentary facies remain less described and examined. A detailed characterisation of organic matter type and origin as well as determination of thermal maturity have been carried out on siliciclastic and carbonate sedimentary samples from Paleozoic, Mesozoic and Cenozoic outcrops of the New Siberian Islands, eastern Russian Arctic. The acquired organic and coal petrological data contribute to the overall assessment of petroleum potential of the studied offshore area and the neighboring shelf area. The investigated organic matter of Silurian and Middle Devonian mudstones and siltstones contain distinct, multi-staged solid bitumen (“dead oil”) preserved either as fracture-, fissure-, and vein-fillings, indicating activation of migrations pathways for re-occurring crude oil-bearing fluids or in form of “streaks”. The examined dispersed organic matter of Triassic deposits is predominantly composed of terrestrially derived macerals followed by alginite macerals ( Tasmanite and Leiosphaeridia prasinophytes). The analysed Cretaceous and Tertiary deposits reveal (i) Aptian/Albian inertinite-rich sub-bituminous coal and lignites formed in fresh water lakes and swamps to brackish near-shore depositional environments with phases of wildfires as well as (ii) Cenomanian/Turonian lignites with pollen grains and carbonised debris (pyrofusinite), indicating stages of forest/moor paleofires. The (iii) Paleocene and Eocene deposits bear mineral-rich and xylite-rich lignites characterised by the lowest coal rank stage, containing different fossil conifer species. The thermal maturity of organic matter in Silurian to Tertiary deposits obtained from random vitrinite and bitumen reflectance measurements is an important parameter in determining the petroleum generation stage at the studied localities. The calculated thermal maturities of Silurian to Middle Devonian deposits acquired from random reflectance measurements of bitumen indicate condensate-wet gas to early dry gas generation window. The thermal maturities of sedimentary organic matter in samples collected from Tertiary to Triassic successions ranges from immature to main phase of oil generation. The composition of the organic matter and thermal maturity of the analysed Triassic siliciclastic deposits suggesting mature stage for oil generation can be used among others to evaluate their hydrocarbon potential. The Cretaceous and Tertiary deposits can be described as thermally immature. In two localities, where the thermal maturity is anomalously high, the examined organic matter has been thermally altered beyond the dry gas preservation limit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the geologic position, mineralogy, petrography, chemical composition, and age of granitoids of the Gamov batholith located in the Heilongjiang-Grodekovo terrane, southern Primorye (Russia). The studies have revealed four intrusive rock phases, from gabbro to leucogranites, in the massif. U-Pb zircon dating of tonalites of phase II and leucogranites of phase IV (254 ± 4 and 259 ± 2 Ma, respectively) shows that the intrusion of granitoids took place in the Late Permian without a significant gap in time. Structural investigations gave evidence for the intrusion in the E-W compression setting. Geochemical studies have revealed granitoids of strongly different compositional types in the intrusive massif: gabbroids, quartz diorites and tonalites with characteristics of low-alumina TTG, calc-alkalic granodiorites and I-type granites, and moderately alkaline leucogranites. The obtained data, together with the results of previous research into the Permo-Triassic granitoids of southern Primorye, reject their formation as a result of the evolution of the Solonker oceanic structures and suggest a more intricate tectonic scenario, which calls for additional study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents new data on the lithology, paleontology, stratigraphy, and correlation of Jurassic deposits of the Irkutsk coal-bearing basin. According to the detailed analysis of the lithology and paleontology of the reference sections, the Jurassic deposits of the southern part of this basin are subdivided into four formations: Baikal'skaya, Dabatskaya, Cheremkhovskaya, and Prisayanskaya. The Lower Jurassic coarse deposits of the Baikal'skaya Formation are regarded as the most ancient; the Middle Jurassic deposits of the Prisayanskaya Formation are the youngest. The industrial coal-bearing deposits of the Cheremkhovskaya Formation formed in the Early Jurassic, from the Pliensbachian to Toarcian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In focus is the current objective of energy efficiency improvement in mining in Russia and in other countries of the world. The world tendencies toward new unconventional renewable energy sources and their introduction in closed-cycle resource-saving technologies are reviewed. In the capacity of renewable energy sources, the authors discuss lithological pressure and elastic vibration of rock mass, kinetic energy of gravity flow of backfill mixtures and fluids during backfilling and mine drainage, potential energy of gravity force of heavy trucks, energy of return air flows in mine ventilation and this energy recovery, etc. The authors think that conversion of these kinds of energy into electric energy during hard mineral mining will allow a solution to ecological problems and enable development of allied branches in 'small power engineering,' including essential reduction of external energy consumption in underground mines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A laboratory installation has been developed together with a technique for determining thermo-physical properties (thermal conductivity and specific heat) in cylindrical rock specimens. The technique is based on iTOUGH2-EOS3 inversion modeling using temperature measurements inside specimens as a result of their short-term heating and subsequent return to the initial temperature. We estimated the thermal conductivity and specific heat for a collection of volcanogenic petrotypes that reflect the rocks that compose the Rogozhnikovskii volcanogenic oil reservoir (29 specimens). The average thermal conductivity of the dry rocks is 1.47 W/m °C and the average specific heat is 754 kJ/kg °C; the reproducibility of this estimation is 2.2% for thermal conductivity and 0.7% for specific heat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] δ13Ccarb depletion of up to 17‰ is the result of post-depositional alteration. [•] Extensive fluid circulation caused secondary calcitization of carbonate beds. [•] Among least altered samples none have extremely low (less than −5‰) δ13Ccarb values. [•] Scarcity of least-altered Zaonega carbonates highlights the need for additional study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The origin and geodynamic settings of the Ust'-Sema Formation and the Barangol Complex are some of the most controversial issues in the Early Paleozoic history of the Altai–Sayan Fold Belt. The Ust'-Sema Formation volcanic rocks are enriched in high-Ca clinopyroxene phenocrysts and were classified as ankaramites and diopside porphyry basalts. In this work, we first present LA-ICP-MS analyses of the clinopyroxenes, along with studies of the petrography, mineral composition, and whole-rock chemistry of the Ust'-Sema Formation and related Barangol Complex rocks. An LA-ICP-MS clinopyroxene study showed a slight depletion of light rare-earth elements (La/Yb)N = 0.1–1.0 (on average 0.4); and strong depletion of the high-field-strength elements (Zr, Hf, and Nb) and large-ion lithophile (Rb) elements. An Sr anomaly showed a positive correlation with Mg#. Major- and trace-element composition of the clinopyroxene cores show that these clinopyroxene grains were not captured from the mantle rocks as previously assumed and that the Ust'-Sema Formation and the Barangol Complex rocks were formed from magma with island arc characteristics. The increased titanium and light rare-earth element contents in the phenocryst rims from Biyka volcano suggest an active interaction of the ankaramitic magma with rocks or melts of OIB type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We studied loparite-containing rocks (lujaurites, juvites, foyaite-juvites, etc.) sampled from a complex of differentiated rocks and, partly, from a complex of eudialytic lujaurites of the Lovozero alkaline massif. Zoned crystals of loparite (the zoning is due to variations in Ti, Nb, REE, Sr, and Th contents) were examined by microprobing. We also carried out experimental studies of loparite formation in complex silicate–salt systems including sodium carbonate, chloride, fluoride, or sulfate at 400–1200 °C and 1–2 kbar. They show that the composition of loparites depends on the physicochemical conditions of their formation (fluid composition) and that natural loparite can crystallize in a wide range of temperatures. The produced loparite crystals are zoned as a result of variations in Ti, Nb, La, Ce, Y, Ca, and Sr contents, which is probably related to the kinetic specifics of crystallization. Their zoning is similar to that of loparites of the Lovozero massif. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Devonian evaporites and associated sedimentary rocks in the Norilsk region were contact metamorphosed during emplacement of mafic sills that form part of the end-Permian (~252 Ma) Siberian Traps. We present mineralogical, geochemical and Sr-Nd isotopic data on sedimentary rocks unaffected by metamorphism, and meta-sedimentary rocks from selected contact aureoles at Norilsk, to examine the mechanisms responsible for magma-evaporite interaction and its relation to the end-Permian environmental crisis. The sedimentary rocks include massive anhydrite, rock salt, dolostone, calcareous siltstones and shale, and the meta-sedimentary rocks comprise calcareous hornfels, siliceous hornfels and minor meta-anhydrite and meta-sandstone. Contact metamorphism took place at low pressure and at maximum temperatures corresponding to the phlogopite-diopside stability field. Calcareous hornfels have high CaO, MgO, CΟ, SΟ, low SiO and initial Sr isotopic ratios of 0.7079-0.7092, features indicative of calcareous siltstone protoliths. Siliceous hornfels, in contrast, have high SiO, AlO, NaO, low in other major element oxides and initial Sr isotopic ratios of 0.7083-0.7152, consistent with pelitic or shaley protoliths. Loss of CO in a subset of calcareous hornfels can be explained by decarbonation reactions during metamorphism, but release of SO from evaporites cannot be accounted for by a similar mechanism. Occurrences of wollastonite and a variety of hydrous minerals in the calcareous hornfels are consistent with equilibration with hydrous fluid, which was capable of leaching large quantities of anhydrite in the presence of dissolved NaCl. In this way, substantial sediment-derived sulfur could have been mobilized, incorporated into the magmatic system and released to the atmosphere. The release of CO and SO from Siberian evaporites added to the variety of toxic gases generated during metamorphism of organic matter, coal and rock salt, contributing to the end-Permian environmental crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the highlights of the annual 2012 All-Russia Seminar on Experimental Mineralogy, Petrology and Geochemistry organized by the Vernadsky Institute of Geochemistry and Analytical Chemistry (GEOKhI) and other Russian organizations in Apri 2012. The event was participated by scientists in Russia and other countries in the world. Topics addressed include the thermodynamic approach to studying geological objects, planetology and ecology.

The Kekuknai massif was formed in the course of tectono-magmatic activity that involved the origin of a shield volcano and a caldera depression with associated emplacement of extrusions that terminated in intense post-caldera areal volcanism. The mineralogical compositions of the massif's rocks have been considered in detail. The use of previously known and newly developed indicator properties of rock-forming minerals allowed the reconstruction of the general picture of the magmatic melt evolution and conditions of rock crystallization (various fluid and water saturation levels, as well as the oxidation state of the system). Essentially island-arc or intraplate characteristics of the massif's rock compositions are found at different stages of development of a single fluid-magmatic system. Decompression evolution of the parent deep-seated basanitic magma occurred via occurrence in intermediate magma chambers of daughter magmas of trachybasalt (pre-caldera stage) or hawaiite (areal volcanism) composition. Subsequent emanate-magmatic differentiation of these melts, combined with crystallization differentiation under changing P-T-conditions, resulted in the formation of the entire diversity of the Kekuknai rocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The petrology and ore potential of the Talazhin massif located in northwestern East Sayan are studied. The internal structure of the intrusion, the petrographic composition of its rocks, and their metallogenic, petrostructural, and petrogeochemical features are considered. The probable temperature and chemical composition of the parental magma of the pluton were computed using the KOMAGMAT-3.52 program on the modeling of equilibrium crystallization. The obtained data indicate that the Talazhin massif is a rhythmically layered plagiodunite–troctolite– anorthosite–gabbro intrusion formed from low-Ti high-alumina olivine–basalt melt. It is promising for Cu–Ni–PGE mineralization. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Results of modeling of the formation of the Vilyui sedimentary basin are presented. We combine backstripping reconstructions of sedimentation and thermal regime during the subsidence with a numerical simulation based on the deformable solid mechanics. Lithological data and stratigraphic sections were used to “strip” the sedimentary beds successively and calculate the depth of the stratigraphic units during the sedimentation. It is the first time that the evolution of sedimentation which is nonuniform over the basin area has been analyzed for the Vilyui basin. The rift origin of the basin is proven. We estimate the spatial distribution of the parameters of crustal and mantle-lithosphere extension as well as expansion due to dike intrusion. According to the reconstructions, the type of subsidence curves for the sedimentary rocks of the basin depends on the tectonic regime of sedimentation in individual basins. The backstripping analysis revealed two stages of extension (sediments 4–5 km thick) and a foreland stage (sediments >2 km thick). With the two-layered lithosphere model, we conclude that the subcrustal layer underwent predominant extension (by a factor of 1.2–2.0 vs. 1.1–1.4 in the crust). The goal of numerical experiments is to demonstrate that deep troughs can form in the continental crust under its finite extension. Unlike the oceanic rifting models, this modeling shows no complete destruction or rupture of the continental crust during the extension. The 2D numerical simulation shows the possibility of considerable basement subsidence near the central axis and explains why mafic dikes are concentrated on the basin periphery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The focus of this study is identification of mineral veins from central part of Khibina massive, which are late Devonian alkaline intrusion. Khibina Massive are product of continental magmatism connecting with a hot spot, which are present in this area, making a lot of the same intrusion. It was identificated a microsyenite, tinguaite and melteigite mostly. From these rocks was collected a few of samples, which made a petrology observation (optical microscopy, XRD analysis). These rocks are strongly important in to description a final crystallization and injection of a small addition of magmas, which was present in the Khibina Massive. Most interested are melteigite rocks which are a product of mixing a primary magma with alkaline fluids, which is visible in mineral composition in these rocks and secondary processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on geological and isotope geochemical data obtained during the past decade, the eastern Sikhote Alin volcanic belt can be considered as a polygenic structure with spatially superimposed magmatic complexes of different geodynamic stages. Only Late Cretaceous intermediate and silicic volcanics enriched in LILE and depleted in HFSE can be interpreted as typical subduction complexes. Cenozoic lavas of mainly basic composition were formed after the termination of active subduction under complex dynamic conditions of the rearrangement of eastern Eurasia owing to the collision with the Indian plate. The eruption of Eocene-Oligocene-early Miocene basalts corresponded to the transform continental margin environment, rupture of an ancient subducted slab, and upwelling of hot depleted oceanic asthenosphere of the Pacific MORB-type into the Asian subcontinental lithosphere with EMII-like isotopic characteristics. The late Miocene-Pliocene magmatic activity of the eastern Sikhote Alin showed an intraplate character, but the composition of erupted magmas was strongly affected by previous tectonomagmatic events: subduction of different ages and opening of the Sea of Japan Basin. The distinct EMI isotopic signature of low-potassium plateau basalts, which is not observed in the lavas of earlier stages of volcanic belt evolution, suggests that the continental asthenosphere contributed to magma formation, and the direction of mantle flows changed owing to the formation of a new subduction zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: New data are presented on the petrogeochemical composition, age, and formation conditions of the Late Neoproterozoic metarhyolite–basalt association of the Glushikha trough (Yenisei Ridge). The association is localized within the subaerial and shallow-water terrigenous-carbonate sediments of the Orlovka Group, which overlies Proterozoic rocks with unconformity. The felsic volcanics are essentially potassic and enriched in Rb, U, Th, and Fe. They show a weakly fractionated REE pattern with a prominent negative Eu anomaly. The basalts and picrite basalts have higher contents of Ti, Fe, P, HFSE, REE, U, Th, Ba, and Sr, and their spidergrams show no Nb or Ta depletion with respect to Th and LREE. These rocks have the petrochemical parameters of intraplate magmatic associations in continental rift zones. New geochronological data (SHRIMP II) on single zircon grains from the felsite porphyry of the metarhyolite–basalt association (717 ± 15 Ma) indicate Late Neoproterozoic volcanism in the Yenisei part of the Central block of the Trans-Angara region. According to Sm–Nd isotopic data, the rhyolites originate from Paleoproterozoic crust (T Nd(DM) = 1757 Ma; T Nd(DM-2st) = 1651 Ma; ∑ Nd(T) = −2.7). The Orlovka volcanosedimentary rocks are rift-related, as evidenced by the following facts: (1) localization of the volcanosedimentary rocks in a narrow fault-line trough; (2) bimodal rhyolite-basaltic composition of the volcanics; and (3) petrology and geochemistry of the picrite basalts and basalts, typical of intraplate environments. The studies show that Late Neoproterozoic rifting and intraplate plume magmatism took place not only in the Tatarka–Ishimba fault zone but also in the Yenisei fault zone of the Yenisei Ridge. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The structure, composition, and age of Vendian–Early Cambrian plagiogranitoid associations composing the Kshta and Taraskyr massifs of the Yenisei pluton in the Altai–North Sayan island-arc belt are considered. We have established that these associations formed within 550–520 Ma and differ in petrographic composition and sources. Two stages of island-arc plagiogranitoid magmatism are recognized: early (550–540 Ma, formation of plagiogranitoids of the Kshta (545 ± 8 Ma) and Taraskyr (545 ± 7 Ma) massifs) and late (525–520 Ma, formation of plagiogranitoids of the Maina complex of the Yenisei (524 ± 2 Ma) and Tabat plutons). By petrochemical composition and geochemical characteristics, the rocks of the Kshta massif are high-alumina plagiogranitoids similar to adakites. They might have been produced through the melting of metabasites compositionally similar to N-MORB in equilibrium with garnet-containing restite during the subduction of oceanic slab at ≥15 kbar. The rocks of the Taraskyr massif are low-alumina plagiogranites. They formed through the melting of metabasites located in the lower layers and(or) the basement of the island-arc system in equilibrium with plagioclase-containing restite at 3–8 kbar. The low-alumina plagiogranitoids of the Yenisei pluton melted out under the same conditions. Isotope-geochemical studies showed that the Vendian–Early Cambrian plagiogranitoids formed at the early stage are characterized by high positive ∑Nd(T) values (7.5–4.9), Late Riphean model Nd-age (TNd(DM) = 0.64–0.98 Ga), and Sr isotope ratio varying from 0.7040 to 0.7053. These data point to the juvenile parental melts of the rocks and the varying content of ancient crustal material in the magma generation zone. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The Early Paleoproterozoic Monchegorsk Complex is exposed over an area of 550 km and comprises two layered mafite-ultramafite intrusions of different age: the Monchegorsk pluton of ultramafic and mafic rocks and the predominantly gabbroid Main Range Massif (also referred to as the Moncha-Chuna-Volch'i Tundras Massif), which are separated by a fault. Both massifs consists of intercalating cumulates (first of all, Ol ± Crt, Ol + Opx ± Crt, Opx, Opx + Pl ± Cpx, and Pl), they were produced by similar melts of siliceous high-Mg series but differ in the stratigraphy of their cumulates: while the Monchegorsk pluton is dominated by ultramafites, the Main Range Massif consists mostly of gabbroids, first of all, of gabbronorites. The complex is accompanied by PGE-Cu-Ni ore mineralization, low-sulfide Pt-Pd mineralization, and chromite mineralization. Judging from geological data and isotopic dates, the Monchegorsk Complex is a long-lived magmatic center, which evolved over a time span of 50 Myr at 2.50-2.46 Ga. The Main Range Massif is younger and likely truncates the western continuation of the Monchegorsk pluton. The complex is spatially restricted to the zone of the Middle Paleoproterozoic regional Central Kola Fault and is now tectonic collage whose rocks were variably affected by overprinted metamorphism in the course of deformations. These processes most significantly affected rocks along the peripheries of the Monchegorsk pluton in the south. These rocks were completely transformed under greenschist-facies conditions but often preserved their primary textures and structures. The processes overprinted both the marginal portions of the pluton itself and the rocks of its second phase, which are accompanied by economic low-sulfide PGE deposits. The PGE-Cu-Ni ore mineralization of the Monchegorsk Complex is genetically related to two distinct evolutionary episodes with a quiescence period in between: [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The eastward penetration of Atlantic-derived water (ADW) into the Eurasian Basin of the Arctic Ocean was investigated at the western Laptev Sea continental margin for the time since c. 17.6ka. Using a high-resolution investigation of the lithology, geochemistry, planktic and benthic foraminifers, and ostracods on a sediment core from 270m water depth major steps in the environmental evolution of the region are recognized. In general, ADW was continuously present in the study area. Between 17.6 and 15.4ka ADW manifested itself through open-water polynyas and associated upwelling events. Comparison between the Laptev Sea and northern Svalbard shelf using Cassidulina neoteretis allows assuming an unmodified subsurface inflow of ADW within its northern branch between 15.4 and 13.2, which was strongest after 14.7-ka and in line with the overall climate amelioration. A local freshwater event at 13ka followed by shelf flooding and the establishment of a freshened shelf water mass resulted in an off-shelf displacement of ADW from the studied site as suggested by the disappearance of C. neoteretis between 12 and 7ka. As evidenced by an abundance peak in Nonion labradoricum, the sea-ice marginal zone was located at the site around 12–11ka but then shifted northward during the early Holocene warming. Enhanced ADW inflow since 7ka correlated with climate cooling and southward retreat of the seasonal drift-ice margin. The inflow of ADW during mid–late Holocene differed from deglacial times because of the combined influence of northern and eastern ADW branches. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper provides an outline of the lithological characteristics, microfaunal (radiolarian) biostratigraphic ages, and structural and tectonostratigraphic framework of various pelagic chert/terrigenous sedimentary successions of the Nadanhada–Bikin terrane that occur within a Jurassic accretionary prism in the Sikhote-Alin Fold Belt of eastern Russia. According to the present analysis of the available data on radiolarian and conodont microfaunal assemblages, the biostratigraphic ages of several transitional layers of pelagic chert/terrigenous sedimentary rocks that occur within various tectonostratigraphic slices of the Nadanhada–Bikin terrane, are Pliensbachian, Bajocian, and Oxfordian–Tithonian. These results indicate that the Nadanhada–Bikin terrane is composed of at least three specific age fragments of a primary sequence of sedimentary cover that once overlay the paleooceanic plate from which this terrane is derived. Therefore, it is established that the formation of the Nadanhada–Bikin terrane involved the structural emplacement of Jurassic oceanic-crust-derived tectonostratigraphic (volcanosedimentary) complexes of at least three different ages into the Jurassic accretionary prism of the Sikhote-Alin Fold Belt. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Organic carbon rich rocks in the c. 2.0 Ga Zaonega Formation ( ZF), Karelia, Russia, preserve isotopic characteristics of a Paleoproterozoic ecosystem and record some of the oldest known oil generation and migration. Isotopic data derived from drill core material from the ZF show a shift in δ13 Corg from c. −25‰ in the lower part of the succession to c. −40‰ in the upper part. This stratigraphic shift is a primary feature and cannot be explained by oil migration, maturation effects, or metamorphic overprints. The shift toward 13 C-depleted organic matter (δ13 Corg < −25‰) broadly coincides with lithological evidence for the generation of oil and gas in the underlying sediments and seepage onto the sea floor. We propose that the availability of thermogenic CH4 triggered the activity of methanotrophic organisms, resulting in the production of anomalously 13 C-depleted biomass. The stratigraphic shift in δ13 Corg records the change from CO2-fixing autotrophic biomass to biomass containing a significant contribution from methanotrophy. It has been suggested recently that this shift in δ13 Corg reflects global forcing and progressive oxidation of the Earth. However, the lithologic indication for local thermogenic CH4, sourced within the oil field, is consistent with basinal methanotrophy. This indicates that regional/basinal processes can also explain the δ13 Corg negative isotopic shift observed in the ZF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thorough study of the Upper Triassic reference section located at the Tikhaya River in the central part of Kotel'nyi Island and characterized by uniform clayey lithology and containing diverse cephalopod, molluscan, and radiolarian assemblages made it possible to specify its structure and paleontological characteristic and establish for the first time the upper Anisian Sirenites yakutensis Zone. It is shown that different Late Triassic faunal groups are represented by mixed dominant Boreal and subordinate Tethyan elements. Such proportions are observable through the entire section beginning from the lower Carnian to upper Norian layers. The peculiar taxonomic composition of Late Triassic radiolarian and cephalopod assemblages provides grounds for attributing the region to an autonomous paleobiochore (New Siberian subprovince). The occurrence of both Siberian and Canadian elements in the Late Triassic faunas emphasizes the specific position of this paleobiochore determined by wide connections between basins at that time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The formation and evolution conditions for alkaline magmatism and associated igneous rocks in the western framing of the Siberian craton are shown by the example of alkaline and subalkaline intrusive bodies of the Yenisei Ridge. Here we present petrographic, mineralogical, geochemical, and geochronological data for the rocks of the Srednetatarka and Yagodka plutons located within the Tatarka–Ishimba suture zone. Ferroan and metaluminous varieties enriched with rare elements (Nb, Ta, Zr, Hf, and REE) are making up most of the studied rocks. They formed at the stages of fractional crystallization of alkaline magma in a setting of active continental margin in the west of the Siberian craton in the Late Neoproterozoic (710–690 Ma). As differentiates of mantle magmas, these rocks associate with Nb-enriched rocks—A-type leucogranites and carbonatites. Sm/Nd and Rb/Sr isotopic data imply a predominance of the mantle component in the magmatic sources of the mafic and intermediate rocks as well as contamination processes of various volumes of continental crustal material by this magma. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We present new data on the material composition of terrigenous deposits in the pre-Jurassic basement of the West Siberian Plate, which formed on the margin of the Kazakhstan paleocontinent. Studies of the sections of several wells drilled in the east of the Kurgan Region showed that the Middle–Upper Devonian and lower Lower Carboniferous continental and littoral deposits are graywackes rich in rock and plagioclase clastics. Quartz grains amount to no more than 3–5%. The rock clastics are mainly volcanics of basic and normal compositions, which were supplied, most likely, from acting volcanoes of the marginal belt. By genesis, these are predominantly tephroids. Along with allothigenic components of sandstones, we consider authigenic minerals, which permit treating the postsedimentational transformation of the Middle Devonian and Early Carboniferous rocks as early catagenesis. By the vitrinite reflectance, the Lower Visean sandstones correspond to gradations MC2 and MC3 (medium catagenesis). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]