Igneous Rock Associations
Igneous Rock Associations
Igneous rocks are absolutely vital in tracing the tectonic evolution of the continents and the
oceans, and in identifying ancient tectonic environments in the geological record. The links
between particular clans of igneous rocks and major classes of ore deposits are also well
established and form a key aspect of many exploration models. These descriptive uses of igneous
rocks as tectonic and metallogenic indicators in turn depend on our knowledge of the processes of
magma generation in modern settings, and our understanding of fractionation, contamination and
other crustal processes. This thematic series of papers provides reviews of major clans and associations of igneous rocks, that summarize our state of knowledge based on modern and ancient examples. It also tackles the questions surrounding secular changes in igneous processes, and magma associations that are not evident in the modern world, such as Archean komatiites. These treatments range from field-oriented accounts that emphasize fundamental observations to sophisticated genetic treatments that apply modern geochemistry and isotopic techniques.
Series Editor and Contact Information
St, Mary's University,
Halifax, NS B3H 3C3, Canada.
Tel:902-420-5746