Scheelite as a microtextural and geochemical tracer of multistage ore-forming processes in skarn mineralization: A case study from the giant Xintianling W deposit, South China

The Xintianling deposit is one of the largest skarn-type scheelite deposit in China. Recent discoveries of quartz-vein-type scheelite mineralization within the deposit have raised questions about its origin and the evolution of ore-forming fluids, hindering a comprehensive understanding of the ore-forming process. We investigate the microtextures, trace elements, and oxygen isotope compositions of scheelite from different stages in both skarn-type and quartz-vein-type W mineralizations. Combined with apatite geochemistry and U–Pb dating, we determine the timing of quartz-vein-type mineralization and the evolution of magmatic-hydrothermal system. Based on detailed petrological observation, three types (seven subtypes) of scheelite and two types of apatite are identified. The Mo contents and Eu/Eu* ratios of scheelite, along with the Ce/Ce* ratios of apatite indicate the oxygen fugacity of fluids during the skarn metallogenic episode is generally higher than that during the quartz-vein metallogenic episode. Furthermore, the Y/Ho ratios and REE patterns of scheelite indicate the presence of at least three significant stages of fluid influx and fluid-rock interactions throughout entire ore-forming process. The O isotope compositions of scheelite in the quartz-vein-type metallogenic episode reveal that the ore-forming fluids are originated from a magmatic source, and meteoric water was mixed into the system, leading to the precipitation of the latest stage of scheelite. The apatites closely coexist with scheelite, from the early and the late stages of quartz-vein metallogenic episode, yield consistent U–Pb ages within error of 160.4 ± 2.4 Ma and 158.4 ± 1.3 Ma, respectively, indicating a close genetic link between quartz-vein-type W mineralization and the fine-grained porphyritic biotite granite. Our study highlights the significance of pulsed fluid exsolution and the combined effects of multiple mechanisms, including fluid-rock interaction, fluid mixing, and physicochemical condition changes, in the formation of large W deposits.