Evolution of a hydrothermal ore-forming system recorded by sulfide mineral chemistry: a case study from the Plaka Pb–Zn–Ag Deposit, Lavrion, Greece

Abstract Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry and electron-probe microanalysis were used to investigate the trace-element contents of sphalerite, chalcopyrite pyrite from Plaka Pb–Zn–Ag deposit. Using petrographic observations, analytical results could be linked temporal evolution ore-forming system. Sphalerite chemistry reliably records temperature f S 2 system, with estimated formation temperatures reproducing microthermometric previous fluid-inclusion studies. Chalcopyrite also shows systematic variations over time, particularly for Cd, Co, Ge, In, Sn Zn concentrations. Measurable was only found in association early high-temperature mineralisation, no clear trends therefore identified. We note, however, that As Se are consistent co-existing sphalerite. Statistical analysis sphalerite data allowed us identify dominant geological controls on its content. The three investigated factors temperature, , sample location account > 80% observed variance Mn, Fe, Ga, Sb Hg concentrations, 60% Cd Only Cu Ag concentrations is explained < 50%. A similarly detailed not possible pyrite. Nevertheless, comparison all minerals indicates there some across deposit which may by local differences fluid composition.