Trace element contents in sphalerite, chalcopyrite and galena in ore deposits from Peru – a meta - analysis

A meta-analysis of trace element contents (LA-ICP-MS data) in sphalerite, chalcopyrite, and galena from a variety of Peruvian ore deposits is presented. Compiled data derives from porphyry-related polymetallic (Cordilleran-type and skarn-hosted), Mississippi-Valley type (MVT), and volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) deposits. The results show systematic differences in the composition of sphalerite-and to a lesser extent, of chalcopyrite and galena-according to the mineralization style. A better comprehension of distribution patterns may help enhance our ability to target particular sulfide mineralization styles for the benefit of identifying critical raw materials as potential by-products.