Cd isotopic constraints on the sources of Zn-Sb deposits: A case study of the Jianzhupo Zn-Sb deposit, Guangxi Province, China

Antimony (Sb) is identified as a critical metal in many countries. The source of hydrothermal Sb-bearing deposits currently debated two opposing models (magmatic fluids or country rocks). Some systems host abundant cadmium (Cd). Due to the close association Cd and Sb distinct isotopic signatures between magmatic sedimentary rocks, isotopes have potential trace origin deposits. Here, we conducted isotope analyses sulfide (jamesonite sphalerite) collected from Jianzhupo Zn-Sb deposit, SW China. A narrow range δ114/110Cd relative NIST SRM 3108 standard was observed sphalerites (−0.15‰ +0.18‰; mean = 0.03‰ ± 0.10‰, one deviation [1SD]), identical that intermediate igneous rocks (−0.20‰ +0.15‰); contrast, pure jamesonites show large (−0.42‰ +0.17‰; −0.22‰ 0.20‰, 1SD), differing those sphalerite. Different jamesonite sphalerite are unlikely been triggered by precipitation, vapor-liquid phase separation, diffusion, different Cd-S bond strengths. Instead, based on comparison Zn/Cd ratio propose mixing ore-forming endmembers, derived may better explain signatures. This supported well-defined positive correlation sulfides. study shows novel application for metallogenetic tracing demonstrates can incorporate metals multiple sources.