Abstract:
The Veitsch type magnesite mineralization in association with talc from Jhiroli is
confined within the stromatolitic dolomite of Deoban Formation. The dolomite
represents many microlithotypes and characterized by nodules and bands of chert.
Microtextures suggest a tidal flat environment where different phases of replacement
of dolomite by magnesite were observed. Grain boundary relations, replacement
features and different phases of reactions between magnesite and silica explain
development of talc in the system. There is a noteworthy similarity in geochemical
signatures of dolomite, magnesite and talc except a few major and minor elements,
which suggest an external chemical flux is not responsible for the magnesite and talc
mineralizations. On the basis of field relation, petrography and geochemistry it can
be inferred that the marine, sparry magnesite deposits are product of diagenetic
replacement of early dolomite in a protected intertidal carbonate flat environment
whereas the associated talc deposits resulted from incipient/low grade regional burial
metamorphism of these siliceous, magnesium bearing carbonates.
