Vol. 336 No. 10 (2025)

DOI https://doi.org/10.18799/24131830/2025/10/5304

Sukhoy Log gold ore deposit (Patom Highlands). Part II. The structure of geophysical and radio-geochemical fields

Relevance. The formation of the Sukhoy Log deposit is believed to have occurred over a protracted geological period, through multiple phases. There are significant disagreements regarding the identification of the key stages of ore genesis in this unique deposit, which engenders uncertainty regarding the main issue, namely its origin – metamorphogenic-hydrothermal or magmatic-hydrothermal. Concurrently, the results of geophysical studies have been utilised to a limited extent in solving this problem. A systematic analysis of these results, in addition to existing geological, geochemical, and geochronological studies, will facilitate progress towards a resolution to this issue and significantly refine the predictive and indicative basis for the geophysical search for promising sites. This work continues a series of articles devoted to the geology and geophysics of the unique Sukhoy Log gold deposit. Aim. To conduct a detailed analysis of the structure of geophysical and radio-geochemical fields in order to identify anomalous zones with signs of formation at different times and under different conditions, thereby reflecting the multi-stage evolution of the deposit, as well as to reveal the connection between these zones and the distribution of gold mineralization. Methods. The present study analyzed physical fields obtained from ground-based magnetic, gravity, and electrical surveys, as well as radio-geochemical fields of uranium, thorium, and potassium distribution obtained from aerial gamma-ray spectrometry surveys. Results and conclusions. The authors have identified three distinct geophysical settings, which were formed at different times and under different conditions. The formation of the earliest anomalies is associated with the stage of dislocation metamorphism; their distinctive feature is their stratiform appearance and high subordination to the structural elements of the Sukholozhskaya anticline. Features of the second and third stages indicate their hydrothermal-metasomatic nature: the effect of plicative tectonics on their localization weakens or disappears completely, and the impact of fault tectonics increases. Indirect evidence of a connection between the third stage of ore genesis and Hercynian granitoid magmatism was established. There is a marked increase in the volume and quality of ores in areas with signs of hydrothermal-metasomatic processing, especially in the third, final stage. A forecast of hidden mineralisation in carbonate rocks of the Imnyakh suite on the north-western edge of the aerogeophysical research area was made.

 

Keywords:

Bodaybo gold-bearing region, gold mineralization, structure of geophysical fields, genesis of the deposit, geophysical characteristics

Authors:

Yuri V. Kolmakov

Vladimir V. Slokvenko