Quartz chemistry of granitic pegmatites: Implications for classification, genesis and exploration

Quartz from 254 pegmatites representing eight pegmatite fields and provinces worldwide was investigated by laser-ablation inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) to determine concentrations of trace elements Al, Ti, Li, Ge, B, Be, Rb, Na, K, Ca, P, Ga, Sb, Zn U. A total 271 new analyses combined with 535 published LA-ICP-MS quartz chemistry data were evaluated binary ternary element discrimination plots principal component analysis (PCA). The classifications applied for types include the widely NYF(Nb-Y-F) - LCT(Li-Cs-Ta) classification RMG (pegmatites derived residual melts granite magmatism) DPA as direct products anatexis) grouping. Pegmatites both can be well distinguished via Al-Ti, Al-Li Al/Ti-Ge/Ti Ti Al/10 10*Ge diagram. PCA Ge Rb contents in allowed further distinguish between anatectic DPA-1 (Li-enriched DPA) granite-pluton-derived RMG-1 RMG) pegmatites. Some (Hagendorf-Pleystein, Oxford County) are distinguishable region-specific Al contents. results imply that is mainly controlled origin (source rock chemistry) and, a much lesser extent, geodynamic setting provinces. Chemically primitive NYF DPA-2 type contain lowest trace-element internal-pegmatite variation, making it potentially suitable high-tech application. Pegmatite containing >30 ?gg-1 Li >100 strongly indicative economic spodumene/montebrasite mineralization thus, serves strong Li-mineralization pathfinder mineral. >5 B may potential indicator gem-quality tourmaline mineralization.