Carbonatehosted

Carbonatehosted is a term used in economic geology to describe ore deposits whose mineralization is hosted predominantly in carbonate rocks, such as limestone and dolostone. The concept emphasizes the role of carbonate lithology in controlling ore formation, geometry, and mineralogy. The spelling is commonly written as carbonate-hosted, but carbonatehosted is also encountered in some sources.

Geological setting and formation are typically related to hydrothermal processes or diagenetic fluid interactions that circulate through carbonate rocks. Temperature and chemistry of the fluids, combined with the buffering capacity of carbonate minerals, influence metal solubility and precipitation. Carbonate-hosted deposits can form at various crustal levels and may be related to faulting, fracturing, and regional tectonic settings that provide pathways for fluid flow.

Mineralogy and ore assemblages in carbonatehosted deposits are often dominated by lead and zinc minerals, such as galena and sphalerite, with silver as a common associated element. Gangue minerals are frequently calcite, dolomite, and other carbonate minerals, and gangue can include baryte, anglesite, and smithsonite. The deposits can occur as massive bodies or more irregular replacements within carbonate rocks.

Classification and examples include Mississippi Valley-type (MVT) deposits, which are classic carbonate-hosted lead-zinc ore bodies forming at relatively low temperatures in North America and other continents. Related concepts include carbonate replacement deposits (CRD) and other ore systems in carbonate settings. These deposits are economically important in regions where carbonate rocks predominate.

Exploration relies on targeting carbonate lithologies, geochemical anomalies for Pb-Zn-Ag, and structural controls such as faults and fractures. Economic significance varies by region but carbonatehosted deposits have historically contributed substantial quantities of zinc, lead, and silver.

See also: carbonate rocks, ore deposits, Mississippi Valley-type deposits, carbonate replacement deposits.