The characteristics of volatile components and alkaline metasomatism in main skarn-type iron deposits in China and their role in ore formation

Skarns, ores and hydrothermally metasomatic rocks associated with some major skarn iron deposits in China contain abundant volatile components, such as F, Cl and H2O. Alkaline (sodic or potassic) metasomatism is obviously evident in the magmatic and other alumo-silicate wall rocks. They may serve as important ore-searching indicators. In this paper, the probable source of iron fluids, transport forms of iron and conditions of precipitation of magnetite are also discussed.