Lamprophyre as the Source of Zircon in the Veneto Region, Italy

Discrete zircons, up to 9 mm in length, occur in alluvial deposits from the Veneto area. They are likely derived from the disaggregation of lamprophyric rocks belonging to a regional, pervasive dyke-swarm. Zircon and REE phases occur in both alkaline lamprophyres and connate calcite-bearing felsic lithics and their debris in lamprophyre breccia. We present 36 new complete U-Pb and trace element analyses of zircons and associated inclusions. We used a statistical approach on a larger dataset using new and literature data to evaluate the confidence figure to give an estimation of age of zircons. Inclusions suggest a genetic link with an S-CO2-ZrO-BaO-SrO-CaO-rich fluid/melt possibly associated with carbonate-rich alkaline parental magma and a metasomatised mantle source. This paper confirms the importance of calcite-syenite and lamprophyre genetic link and zircon magmatic origin, in contrast with hydrothermal and metamorphic zircons. U-Pb dating by LA-ICP-MS provides time constrains (40.5-48.4 Ma, Lutetian), consistent with the age of the alkaline magmatic event. Trace element data indicate a link to anorogenic magmatism associated with mantle upwelling. Complex zoning is highlighted by cathodoluminescence images. The Veneto zircons are helpful for regional geological information and may have commercial potential as a critical resource for green technologies.

Automated summary

This study presents new data on discrete zircons from the Veneto area, revealing their potential origin and significance. The research suggests a genetic link between these zircons and alkaline magmatic events, highlighting their geological importance and commercial potential.