Metallogenic provinces, geochemical provinces and regional geology — what causes large-scale patterns in low density geochemical maps of the C-horizon of podzols in Arctic Europe?

The <2 mm fraction of 605 samples of the C-horizon of podzols collected from an area of 188,000 km2 in the European Arctic was analysed for more than 40 chemical elements. The results were used to construct geochemical maps which showed clear regional distribution patterns, notwithstanding the very low sample density of 1 site per 300 km2. Some of these patterns fit established lithological boundaries. Others fit lineament structures in the area and underline the relative importance of certain tectonic directions some of which have not yet been delineated on existing geological maps. Some mark large-scale hydrothermal events and related alteration. Finally, some are connected with prominent, known ore deposits occurring in the area. However, several large deposits and even famous metallogenic provinces (Fe, Ni/Cu) are hardly, or not at all, reflected in the regional geochemical maps. In their present definitions geochemical provinces and metallogenic provinces are thus not necessarily related. Special geochemical features can occur at very different scales. The term geochemical province is so imprecise in terms of processes leading to regional-scale geochemical features that it should be avoided. Low-density geochemistry can be used to aid the interpretation of the geological evolution of large regions. It can also be used to find prospective areas within such regions.