EVOLUTION OF COMPOSITION OF MAJOR MINERAL PHASES IN LAYERED COMPLEX OF OPHIOLITE ASSEMBLAGE: EVIDENCE FOR THE VOYKAR OPHIOLITES (POLAR URALS, RUSSIA)

Abstract

We present a detailed study of compositional variation of major minerals through a cross section of the layered complex of the Late Devonian Voykar ophiolite assemblage (Polar Urals). The principal characteristics of this layered complex suggest crystallization from a periodically replenished open magma system in a tectonically dynamic, oceanic environment. The complex may be described in terms of two sequences of cumulus rocks, or megarhythms, that each display an upward progression from ultramafic to gabbroic composition. A transitional zone between the megarhythms is characterized by an upwardly reverse lithologic progression from gabbroic to ultramafic composition. Broad cryptic variation in mineral composition over intervals >100 m parallel changes in the lithologic abundances and suggest changes in the rate of magma supply relative to crystallization and(or) tapping of different mantle sources that had been previously depleted to different degrees. The mineralogy, mineral compositions and isotopic composition of the layered complex coupled with the association of the Voykar ophiolite with island-arc complexes suggest that it most likely formed in a back-arc basin.