<p>This paper presents a critical review and interpretive synthesis of published geological and mineralogical data concerning copper mineralization in the Anti-Atlas Mountain Range of Morocco. The main objective is to integrate and reassess existing information to better understand the geological setting, mineralogical composition, and genesis of major copper deposits in the region, rather than to produce new field or analytical data. Drawing on data from various sources, including recent geological surveys and mineralogical studies, the research focuses on key locally argentiferous copper-rich deposits such as Tazalarht, Agjgal, Ouansimi, Jbel La’sal, Jbel N’Zourk, and Bleida. The copper mineralization in these deposits is primarily associated with formations from the Upper Neoproterozoic and Infracambrian periods, displaying a diverse lithological range that includes rhyolites, andesites, dolomitic sandstones, siltstones, and conglomerates. The mineralization occurs in three main forms stratabound, disseminated, and vein-like structures showing a close spatial relationship with Precambrian inliers and Hercynian structures. Mineralogical analyses reveal distinct hypogene and supergene assemblages of copper-bearing minerals. The hypogene assemblage includes chalcopyrite, bornite, chalcocite, and associated sulfides such as pyrite and sphalerite, whereas the supergene assemblage consists of malachite, azurite, and secondary oxides such as hematite, and preserved primary magnetite, indicating their intimate association with copper and silver mineralization. The mineralization process is interpreted to involve multiple stages, beginning with early syngenetic deposition, followed by subsequent hydrothermal alteration and supergene enrichment. Mixing between hydrothermal fluids and basin brines are considered a significant factor in ore formation. The findings presented in this study contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the geological and mineralogical characteristics of copper deposits in the Anti-Atlas Mountain Range. This knowledge is crucial for guiding exploration and exploitation strategies and for assessing the economic potential of these deposits. Further research is warranted to better elucidate the genesis and spatial distribution of copper mineralization in the region.</p>

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Copper mineralization in the Western and Central Anti-Atlas, Morocco: a review

  • Abdessamad El Atillah,
  • Mohamed Mahmoud Sebbab,
  • Insaf El Atillah,
  • Mehdi Ousbih,
  • Zine El Abidine El Morjani,
  • Mohamed Azeroual,
  • Mustapha Souhassou

摘要

This paper presents a critical review and interpretive synthesis of published geological and mineralogical data concerning copper mineralization in the Anti-Atlas Mountain Range of Morocco. The main objective is to integrate and reassess existing information to better understand the geological setting, mineralogical composition, and genesis of major copper deposits in the region, rather than to produce new field or analytical data. Drawing on data from various sources, including recent geological surveys and mineralogical studies, the research focuses on key locally argentiferous copper-rich deposits such as Tazalarht, Agjgal, Ouansimi, Jbel La’sal, Jbel N’Zourk, and Bleida. The copper mineralization in these deposits is primarily associated with formations from the Upper Neoproterozoic and Infracambrian periods, displaying a diverse lithological range that includes rhyolites, andesites, dolomitic sandstones, siltstones, and conglomerates. The mineralization occurs in three main forms stratabound, disseminated, and vein-like structures showing a close spatial relationship with Precambrian inliers and Hercynian structures. Mineralogical analyses reveal distinct hypogene and supergene assemblages of copper-bearing minerals. The hypogene assemblage includes chalcopyrite, bornite, chalcocite, and associated sulfides such as pyrite and sphalerite, whereas the supergene assemblage consists of malachite, azurite, and secondary oxides such as hematite, and preserved primary magnetite, indicating their intimate association with copper and silver mineralization. The mineralization process is interpreted to involve multiple stages, beginning with early syngenetic deposition, followed by subsequent hydrothermal alteration and supergene enrichment. Mixing between hydrothermal fluids and basin brines are considered a significant factor in ore formation. The findings presented in this study contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the geological and mineralogical characteristics of copper deposits in the Anti-Atlas Mountain Range. This knowledge is crucial for guiding exploration and exploitation strategies and for assessing the economic potential of these deposits. Further research is warranted to better elucidate the genesis and spatial distribution of copper mineralization in the region.