The connection between the Congo Craton and the West African Craton is thought to have played a fundamental role in the geological processes that led to the formation of juvenile crust of Palaeoproterozoic age
[1]
-
[7]
. In the South Shield (Man/Leo) of the West African Craton, the geological formations are essentially of Palaeoproterozoic age, dominated by metavolcano-sedimentary belts and plutonic formations metamorphosed during the Eburnian orogeny (
Figure 1
). These processes began at the end of the Archean and concluded in the Palaeoproterozoic with the gradual installation of various types of granitoids
[8]
within the pre-existing volcanic and volcano-sedimentary formations.
Figure 1. Simplified geological map of the Man/Leo Shield <xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.141771-20">
[20]
</xref>.
The Eburnian orogeny, coinciding with the emplacement of the granitoids, was marked by intense deformation and metamorphism affecting these formations. These tectonic and magmatic dynamics locally amplified the deformation and metamorphism, playing a key role in the structural and geological evolution of the region. The initial phase of deformation was characterised by regional shortening in an E-W direction, resulting from convergence between the Archean Kénéma-Man block and the Archean Congo craton block
[9]
[10]
. This shortening, accompanied by the emplacement of granitoids, profoundly affected the volcanic and sedimentary rocks, leading to their metamorphism and deformation. The greenstone belt structure is the result of the combined effect of several geodynamic processes
[11]
-
[13]
.
This initial deformation (D1) was then accommodated by more localised transcurrent tectonics, responsible for the D2 and D3 deformation phases
[9]
-
[12]
. The lithostratigraphy of the Birimian formations has long been the subject of scientific debate, but it has been established that these formations are underlain by a base of ultrabasic rocks that evolved into tholeiitic basalts, before ending in sediments intercalated with calc-alkaline volcanic rocks
[12]
[14]
[15]
.
In parallel with this geological evolution, transcurrent tectonics generated major shear zones, notably the Tiébélé-Dori-Markoye fault in Burkina Faso, the Senegal-Malian fault, and the Sassandra fault in Côte d'Ivoire. These major structures were subsequently reactivated, favoring the development of secondary shear corridors, which are natural traps for economically exploitable mineralization. In most cases, this Mineralization is mainly controlled by tectonic structures, in addition to lithological factors
[16]
-
[18]
. The study area has been the subject of little scientific research since the 1960s
[15]
[19]
. It is therefore essential to examine its gold potential and the factors that have controlled its mineralisation.
The aim of this study is to use field and laboratory data to analyze the factors controlling gold mineralization in Zone B of the Gnimi-Yabogane sector in southwest Burkina Faso. The research also aims to establish guiding criteria for drilling and gold prospecting in the region.
2. Regional Geological Context
From the 1960s to the present, the study area has been the subject of mapping and mining surveys
[19]
[21]
-
[23]
. Petrographically, it is characterised by greenstone belts comprising mainly metavolcanic rocks (metabasalts, metaandesites, etc.), along with lesser amounts of metaplutonic rocks (metagabbros, metadiorites, etc.) and metasedimentary rocks (schists, metapelites, etc.). These formations are intersected by two distinct generations of granitoids. The first generation corresponds to the TTG granitoids (Tonalites, Trondhjemites, and Granodiorites), with a geochemical signature similar to Archean TTGs
[2]
[12]
[17]
[24]
[25]
or Andean adakites
[26]
. These granitoids structured the greenstone belts, giving them a N-S to NNE-SSW orientation and also induced contact metamorphism in the surrounding formations
[27]
[28]
. A second generation of isotropic, biotite-only granitoids cuts through these formations.
In terms of metamorphism, the Boromo belt formations have been affected by greenschist to amphibolite facies metamorphism, with local hydrothermal manifestations. This metamorphism is accompanied by regional schistosity (S1), resulting from NW-SE trending shortening attributed to the first deformation phase (D1) of the Eburnian orogeny
[15]
.
Structurally, three major shear zones cross the region. To the east, the Ouessa-Fara shear zone is a significant structure. In the center, the Dissine-Gnimi shear zone, also known as the Lopal anomaly, cuts directly through the study area (see
Figure 2
). To the west, the Bontioli-Bonzan shear zone completes the fault network. These shear corridors have facilitated the concentration of gold mineralization, as evidenced by the Gnimi and Yaboghane gold panning sites. These sites, located about 25 km from the commune of Dano and 330 km from Ouagadougou, illustrate the structuring role of these faults in controlling gold mineralization.
3. Methodology
The methodology for this study is based on four main areas: literature review, fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation.
The literature review provided an overview of previous and current research in the study area.
Fieldwork involved systematic sampling at each outcrop site encountered and of the different facies traversed during core drilling. Petrographic and structural studies were conducted at these outcrop sites, while only petrographic studies were performed at the core drilling sites.
Figure 2. Geological map of the study area (extract from the geological map at 1/1,000,000 of Burkina Faso) <xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.141771-15">
[15]
</xref>.
Laboratory analyses included preparing thin sections for detailed petrographic and structural descriptions. Samples were also sent to ACLABS Burkina Faso SARL in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, for gold analysis to identify mineralized intercepts. These analyses of the mineralization control features were based on seven core holes with approximately 560 samples. Gold assaying was performed using the Au-Fire Assay AA (QOP AA-Au) method. Details of this assay method are available on the ACLABS laboratory website at
http://www.actlabs.com
. Finally, interpreting data from these stages helped refine the understanding of the lithological and structural controls on gold mineralization by establishing correlations between field observations and analytical results.
4. Results4.1. Petrographic Characteristics
Macroscopic and microscopic observations identified three main rock types in the study area: metavolcano-sedimentary rocks, basic rocks (gabbros and metaandesites), and granitoids similar to the TTGs of the Dissine-Gnimi alignment, corresponding to the Lopal anomaly. The volcano-sedimentary rocks are exposed in certain localities such as Bontioli, Gnimi, Kayao, and Fara (
Figure 3a
). They mostly appear as highly weathered shales and are oriented according to the regional S1 schistosity, which trends N-S to NNE-SSW.
Microscopic analysis reveals that these rocks consist mainly of quartz and plagioclase phenocrysts. The presence of pressure shadows indicates zones of recrystallisation, testifying to the effects of metamorphism and deformation undergone by these formations (
Figure 3b
).
Figure 3. Volcano-sedimentary schists. a. Macroscopic image of schist outcrop. b. Microphotograph of volcano-sedimentary schists with plagioclase and potassium feldspar phenocrysts. Ph: Amphibole and biotite phyllites, Pl: Plagioclase, Fk: Potassium feldspar, Qz: Quartz, OR: Pressure shadow.
The basic facies intercalate with the volcanic-sedimentary schists that form their immediate host rock. They rarely surface but are present in gold panning rejects and core samples. These are gabbros with amphibolitic tendencies (
Figure 4a
and
Figure 4b
). Minerals such as amphibole, pyroxene, and plagioclase can be seen under the microscope. There are also dark-colored meta-andesites, sometimes grey, with a clear contact with the volcanic-sedimentary schists (
Figure 5a
and
Figure 5c
). Finally, there are dark-colored gabbros (
Figure 5b
), which microscopically consist mainly of amphibole, pyroxene, and plagioclase (
Figure 5d
).
Figure 4. Amphibolitic gabbro. a. Outcrop. b. Microphotograph of an amphibolitic gabbro. Py: Pyroxene. Amp: Amphibole. Pl: Plagioclase.
Granitoids occur rarely and inconspicuously west of the mineralized zone. Two types of enclaves were identified: rounded enclaves, interpreted as comagmatic, and angular enclaves characterised by strong overmicassification (
Figure 6a
). Macroscopic observation reveals a high abundance of plagioclase, suggesting a granodioritic composition. These granitoids are intercalated in the greenstone belts they cross. Field relationships indicate they were emplaced within volcano-sedimentary formations. Microscopic analysis reveals minerals such as amphibole, biotite, plagioclase, and potassium feldspar, accompanied by accessory minerals like zircon, myrmekite, sphene, and epidote (
Figure 6b
).
Figure 5. Macroscopic and microscopic illustrations of basic rocks. a. Macrophotograph of a core showing the contact between meta-andesite and volcano-sedimentary schist. b. Macrophotograph of a gabbro. c. Microphotograph of the contact between meta-andesite and volcano-sedimentary schist. d. Microphotograph of a gabbro. VS: Volcano-sedimentary, VC: Carbonate vein, Amp: Amphibole, Py: Pyroxene, Op: Opaque.
Figure 6. Illustrations of granodiorite and enclaves. a. Outcrop of granodiorite with comagmatic enclaves. b. Outcrop of granodiorite with an angular overmicassed enclave. c. Microphotograph of a granodiorite. d. Microphotograph of an overmicassed enclave. AMP: Amphibole, Mi: Micas, Pl: Plagioclase, Fk: Potassium feldspar, Qz: Quartz.
4.2. Structural Analysis
In the field, the main structures observed locally include foliation, schistosity, folds, cracks, veins, and fractures. Schistosity comes in several variants. The N-S to NNE-SSW flow schistosity (S1) corresponds to the regional schistosity and highlights the alignment of the Boromo greenstone belt (
Figure 7a
). This D1 phase coincides with the emplacement of a wide range of first-generation TTG granitoids known in the eastern part of the Gnimi prospect. The structures are characterised by schistosity and first-order folding. Phase D1 is ductile and helped to straighten and shape the Birimian grooves of the Boromo greenstone belt. Phase D1 postdates gold mineralisation. It was overprinted by the D2 deformation phase, which develops in a deformation continuum of NNE-SSW to NE-SW-trending crenulation schistosity (S2) and second-order anisopic folds. This S2 played a key role in the continuity of the structuring of the volcano-sedimentary rocks and the TTG granitoids. D2 is semi-ductile and corresponds to sinistral shear zones. The structures of the D2 phase include foliation, crenulation schistosity, second-order folds, cracks, veins, and veins of smoky quartz and carbonate. The smoky quartz veins of this deformation phase are mined by gold miners.
The D3 deformation phase follows the D2 phase. In certain areas, depending on the competence of the formations, the foliation evolves towards mylonitic schistosity, indicating a high degree of deformation that creates S3 fracture schistosities.
Fracture schistosity (S3), associated with the latest tectonic events in the region, reflects the expression of phase D3 (
Figure 7b
). Furthermore, comagmatic enclaves and amphibolitic xenoliths present in the granitoids follow the orientation of the foliation, reinforcing its structural expression.
Figure 7. Illustrations of the different phases of deformation. a. Photographic illustration of the S1 schistosity with shear zones. b. Illustration of the S2 schistosity of the sinister D2 marked by first-order folding and S3 characterised by late fractures.
Comagmatic enclaves and xenoliths of amphibolitic composition also underline the foliation. The folds observed in the field are related to the crenulation schistosity (S2) and correspond to first-order folds (P1). Their development reflects the intensity of regional deformation in a deformation continuum.
The cracks of D2, mostly oriented NE-SW, are frequently filled with quartz, indicating fluid circulation associated with tectonic phases.
The veins fall into two main categories: quartz veins and carbonate veins (
Figure 8a
). Quartz veins have several orientations: some are aligned N-S, others NE-SW, while a final group follows an E-W direction. The carbonate veins are divided into two distinct generations: a first folded generation and a second unfolded generation, including a pleated first generation, which is D1, and a non-pleated second generation, which is D2.
The quartz veins observed in the study area fall into three distinct types, reflecting different phases of deformation. Smoky and brecciated quartz veins, the oldest, are associated with the D2 sinistral deformation phase and constitute the main mineralized structures. They are often accompanied by quartz veinlets, generally associated with sulfides, thus sharing a common history with smoky quartz. Finally, the white quartz veins, corresponding to the dextral D3 phase, are rarely mineralized and indicate more recent tectonic events (
Figure 8b
).
Figure 8. Quartz and carbonate veins and fractures; a. Illustrations of folded quartz veins (Vq) and carbonate veins (Vc). b. Quartz veins (V1) and three generations of fractures (F).
4.3. Mineralization Control
Laboratory assay results show gold grades ranging from 0.5 to 3 g/t, depending on the mineralized intercept (
Table 1
).
<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.141771-"></xref>Table 1. Synthesis of mineralised intercepts.
Holes_ID
From
To
Au_ppm
Intercepts
Holes_ID
From
To
Au_ppm
Intercepts
GNM001B
1.7
2.7
0.025
GNM004B
41.6
42.75
0.019
GNM001B
2.7
4
0.025
GNM004B
42.75
43.9
0.024
GNM001B
4
5
0.019
GNM004B
43.9
45
0.021
GNM001B
5
6
0.013
GNM004B
45
46.15
0.026
GNM001B
6
7
0.009
GNM004B
46.15
47.2
0.015
GNM001B
7
8
0.007
GNM004B
47.2
47.8
0.03
GNM001B
8
10.6
0.005
GNM004B
47.8
49.5
0.012
GNM001B
10.6
12.4
0.006
GNM004B
49.5
50.4
0.065
GNM001B
12.4
14.1
<0.005
GNM004B
50.4
51.25
0.031
GNM001B
14.1
15
<0.005
GNM004B
51.25
52.4
0.014
GNM001B
15
16
0.008
GNM004B
52.4
53.5
0.042
GNM001B
16
18
0.006
GNM004B
53.5
54.6
0.019
GNM001B
18
20
0.009
GNM004B
54.6
55.7
0.012
GNM001B
20
22.5
<0.005
GNM004B
55.7
56.8
0.015
GNM001B
22.5
23.5
<0.005
GNM004B
56.8
57.9
0.028
GNM001B
23.5
24.7
<0.005
GNM004B
57.9
59
0.021
GNM001B
24.7
26.35
0.006
GNM005B
1.5
4.8
0.02
GNM001B
26.35
30
<0.005
GNM005B
4.8
5.7
0.011
GNM001B
30
31.5
0.005
GNM005B
5.7
7.1
0.015
GNM001B
31.5
32.85
0.005
GNM005B
7.1
11.25
0.154
GNM001B
32.85
33.9
0.006
GNM005B
11.25
14.36
0.028
GNM001B
33.9
35.1
<0.005
GNM005B
14.36
17
0.112
GNM001B
35.1
36.2
<0.005
GNM005B
17
18.5
0.16
GNM001B
36.2
38
0.008
GNM005B
18.5
19.5
0.571
1m@0.571ppm
GNM001B
38
39.15
0.005
GNM005B
19.5
21.3
0.032
GNM001B
39.15
40.2
0.006
GNM005B
21.3
23.2
0.407
1.9m@0.407ppm
GNM001B
40.2
40.7
0.005
GNM005B
23.2
24.1
0.272
GNM001B
40.7
41.54
<0.005
GNM005B
24.1
26.15
0.058
GNM001B
41.54
42.45
<0.005
GNM005B
26.15
27.7
0.089
GNM001B
42.45
44.1
0.012
GNM005B
27.7
28.65
0.105
GNM001B
44.1
45
0.005
GNM005B
28.65
29.6
0.023
GNM001B
45
46.1
0.007
GNM005B
29.6
31
0.062
GNM001B
46.1
47.26
0.006
GNM005B
31
32.32
3.77
2.45m@2.01ppm
GNM001B
47.26
48.55
0.015
GNM005B
32.32
33.45
0.257
GNM001B
48.55
49.5
0.02
GNM005B
33.45
34.6
0.161
GNM001B
49.5
50.5
0.03
GNM005B
34.6
35.75
0.215
GNM001B
50.5
51.45
0.024
GNM005B
35.75
36.62
0.052
GNM001B
51.45
52.6
0.188
GNM005B
36.62
37.45
4.02
2.38m@2.29ppm
GNM001B
52.6
53.8
0.027
GNM005B
37.45
38.1
2.52
GNM001B
53.8
54.95
0.017
GNM005B
38.1
39
0.347
GNM001B
54.95
56.2
0.037
GNM005B
39
39.8
0.064
GNM001B
56.2
57.1
0.018
GNM005B
39.8
41
0.02
GNM001B
57.1
58.2
0.025
GNM005B
41
42
0.018
GNM001B
58.2
59.2
0.008
GNM005B
42
43
0.024
GNM001B
59.2
60.4
0.008
GNM005B
43
43.9
0.011
GNM001B
60.4
61.15
0.01
GNM005B
43.9
44.7
0.037
GNM001B
61.15
62.3
0.023
GNM005B
44.7
46
0.024
GNM001B
62.3
63.3
0.018
GNM005B
46
47
<0.005
GNM001B
63.3
64.5
0.198
GNM005B
47
47.9
<0.005
GNM001B
64.5
65.5
0.021
GNM005B
47.9
48.7
<0.005
GNM001B
65.5
66.5
0.009
GNM005B
48.7
49.85
0.039
GNM001B
66.5
67.5
0.009
GNM005B
49.85
50.9
0.006
GNM001B
67.5
68.55
0.009
GNM005B
50.9
51.9
<0.005
GNM001B
68.55
69.35
0.008
GNM005B
51.9
52.55
0.009
GNM001B
69.35
70.5
0.043
GNM005B
52.55
53.5
<0.005
GNM001B
70.5
71.65
0.006
GNM005B
53.5
54.5
0.006
GNM001B
71.65
72.8
0.016
GNM005B
54.5
55.45
0.008
GNM001B
72.8
73.95
0.008
GNM005B
55.45
56.4
0.009
GNM001B
73.95
75.1
0.007
GNM005B
56.4
57.4
0.029
GNM001B
75.1
75.95
0.006
GNM005B
57.4
58.45
0.254
GNM001B
75.95
76.8
0.015
GNM005B
58.45
59.45
0.294
GNM001B
76.8
77.7
0.075
GNM005B
59.45
60.75
0.077
GNM001B
77.7
78.6
0.208
GNM005B
60.75
61.8
<0.005
GNM001B
78.6
79.5
0.162
GNM005B
61.8
62.8
0.185
GNM001B
79.5
80.65
0.013
GNM005B
62.8
63.9
0.281
GNM001B
80.65
81.8
0.016
GNM005B
63.9
64.9
0.01
GNM001B
81.8
83
0.175
GNM005B
64.9
65.7
0.237
GNM001B
83
84.2
0.054
GNM005B
65.7
66.7
1.83
1.9m@1.15ppm
GNM001B
84.2
85.4
0.227
GNM005B
66.7
67.6
0.487
GNM001B
85.4
86.8
0.014
GNM005B
67.6
68.25
0.017
GNM001B
86.8
88.05
0.057
GNM005B
68.25
69.1
0.387
GNM001B
88.05
89
0.008
GNM005B
69.1
70
0.03
GNM001B
89
90
0.007
GNM005B
70
71
0.013
GNM001B
90
91
0.007
GNM005B
71
71.9
0.01
GNM001B
91
92
0.012
GNM005B
71.9
72.8
0.017
GNM001B
92
93.4
0.022
GNM005B
72.8
73.75
0.012
GNM001B
93.4
94.5
0.074
GNM005B
73.75
74.85
0.013
GNM001B
94.5
95.6
0.007
GNM005B
74.85
76
0.01
GNM001B
95.6
96.9
0.008
GNM005B
76
77.15
0.016
GNM001B
96.95
98
0.01
GNM005B
77.15
78
0.026
GNM001B
98
99
0.008
GNM005B
78
79
0.026
GNM002B
0
1.55
0.031
GNM005B
79
80
0.077
GNM002B
1.55
3
0.007
GNM005B
80
80.85
<0.005
GNM002B
3
4.7
0.01
GNM005B
80.85
82
0.007
GNM002B
4.7
6
0.011
GNM005B
82
83
0.01
GNM002B
6
7.05
0.02
GNM005B
83
84.2
0.007
GNM002B
7.05
8.55
0.022
GNM005B
84.2
85.4
0.009
GNM002B
8.55
9.9
0.01
GNM005B
85.4
86.6
0.01
GNM002B
9.9
11
0.009
GNM005B
86.6
87.8
0.014
GNM002B
11
11.65
0.009
GNM005B
87.8
89
0.011
GNM002B
11.65
12.7
0.011
GNM005B
89
90
0.012
GNM002B
12.7
13.8
0.008
GNM005B
90
91.1
0.01
GNM002B
13.8
15
0.009
GNM005B
91.1
92.1
0.007
GNM002B
15
16.6
0.009
GNM005B
92.1
93
0.01
GNM002B
16.6
18
0.008
GNM005B
93
94
0.012
GNM002B
18
19.4
0.008
GNM005B
94
95.1
0.078
GNM002B
19.4
20.6
0.009
GNM005B
95.1
96.4
0.155
GNM002B
20.6
22.3
0.01
GNM005B
96.4
97.6
0.011
GNM002B
22.3
24
0.011
GNM005B
97.6
98.8
0.005
GNM002B
24
25.5
0.01
GNM005B
98.8
100
0.013
GNM002B
25.5
27
0.009
GNM006B
1.5O
4.5
0.018
GNM002B
27
28.5
0.009
GNM006B
4.5
6
0.008
GNM002B
28.5
29.8
0.009
GNM006B
6
7.7
0.012
GNM002B
29.8
31.1
0.011
GNM006B
7.7
10.5
0.012
GNM002B
31.1
33.3
0.009
GNM006B
10.5
12
0.02
GNM002B
33.3
34.3
0.011
GNM006B
12
13.5
0.009
GNM002B
34.3
35.3
0.044
GNM006B
13.5
14.2
0.005
GNM002B
35.3
36.4
0.015
GNM006B
14.2
14.85
0.01
GNM002B
36.4
37.5
0.014
GNM006B
14.85
16
0.013
GNM002B
37.5
38.6
0.017
GNM006B
16
17.15
0.01
GNM002B
38.6
39.7
1.27
2.25m@0.75ppm
GNM006B
17.15
19.5
0.105
GNM002B
39.7
40.85
0.237
GNM006B
19.5
20.8
0.063
GNM002B
40.85
42
0.024
GNM006B
20.8
22.2
0.154
GNM002B
42
43
0.019
GNM006B
22.2
24
0.049
GNM002B
43
44
0.093
GNM006B
24
26
0.053
GNM002B
44
44.8
0.144
GNM006B
26
27.6
0.02
GNM002B
44.8
45.45
0.024
GNM006B
27.6
28.65
0.013
GNM002B
45.45
46.55
1.05
4.45m@0.77ppm
GNM006B
28.65
29.6
0.085
GNM002B
46.55
47.8
0.478
GNM006B
29.6
31.5
0.026
GNM002B
47.8
49
1.01
GNM006B
31.5
32.4
0.077
GNM002B
49
49.9
0.554
GNM006B
32.4
33.25
0.011
GNM002B
49.9
51
0.231
GNM006B
33.25
34.3
<0.005
GNM002B
51
52
0.056
GNM006B
34.3
35.2
0.021
GNM002B
52
53
0.184
GNM006B
35.2
36.2
0.024
GNM002B
53
54
0.015
GNM006B
36.2
37.55
0.009
GNM002B
54
54.9
0.02
GNM006B
37.55
39.5
0.082
GNM002B
54.9
55.75
0.028
GNM006B
39.5
41
0.155
GNM002B
55.75
56.6
0.057
GNM006B
41
42.8
0.023
GNM002B
56.6
57.7
0.037
GNM006B
42.8
44
0.038
GNM002B
57.7
58.7
0.051
GNM006B
44
44.9
0.135
GNM002B
58.7
59.65
0.565
GNM006B
44.9
45.6
0.047
GNM002B
59.65
61
0.043
GNM006B
45.6
46.55
0.408
GNM002B
61
62.1
1.96
3.7m@1.22ppm
GNM006B
46.55
47.46
0.064
GNM002B
62.1
63.25
1.38
GNM006B
47.46
48.2
0.235
GNM002B
63.25
64.7
0.327
GNM006B
48.2
49.05
1.97
2.05m@1.53ppm
GNM002B
64.7
65.65
0.154
GNM006B
49.05
50.25
1.1
GNM002B
65.65
66.8
0.017
GNM006B
50.25
51
0.009
GNM002B
66.8
67.9
0.014
GNM006B
51
51.9
0.319
GNM002B
67.9
69
0.018
GNM006B
51.9
53
0.053
GNM002B
69
70.1
0.029
GNM006B
53
54
0.014
GNM002B
70.1
71.3
0.331
GNM006B
54
55
0.021
GNM002B
71.3
72.1
0.021
GNM006B
55
55.9
0.145
GNM002B
72.1
73.1
0.031
GNM006B
55.9
56.9
0.017
GNM002B
73.1
74
0.013
GNM006B
56.9
57.85
0.034
GNM002B
74
75
0.02
GNM006B
57.85
58.95
0.051
GNM002B
75
76.05
0.024
GNM006B
58.95
60
0.009
GNM002B
76.05
76.85
0.023
GNM006B
60
60.95
0.016
GNM002B
76.85
77.8
0.674
GNM006B
60.95
61.85
0.696
0.9m@0.696ppm
GNM002B
77.8
79
0.019
GNM006B
61.85
62.8
0.36
GNM002B
79
80.2
0.016
GNM006B
62.8
63.55
0.261
GNM002B
80.2
81.4
0.016
GNM006B
63.55
64.5
0.076
GNM002B
81.4
82.6
0.017
GNM006B
64.5
65.5
0.006
GNM002B
82.6
83.8
0.018
GNM006B
65.5
66.2
0.009
GNM002B
83.8
85
0.014
GNM006B
66.2
66.9
0.005
GNM002B
85
86.2
0.012
GNM006B
66.9
67.9
0.022
GNM002B
86.2
87.4
0.015
GNM006B
67.9
68.8
0.03
GNM002B
87.4
88.6
0.014
GNM006B
68.8
69.9
0.102
GNM002B
88.6
89.8
0.012
GNM006B
69.9
71
1.57
6.25m@0.85ppm
GNM002B
89.8
91
0.011
GNM006B
71
72
1.05
GNM002B
91
92
0.009
GNM006B
72
73
0.712
GNM002B
92
93.05
0.013
GNM006B
73
74
0.047
GNM002B
93.05
94.1
0.137
GNM006B
74
75
1.41
GNM002B
94.1
95.15
0.26
GNM006B
75
76.15
0.291
GNM002B
95.15
96.4
0.014
GNM006B
76.15
77
0.197
GNM002B
96.4
97.6
<0.005
GNM006B
77
78
0.109
GNM002B
97.6
98.8
<0.005
GNM006B
78
79
0.008
GNM002B
98.8
100
<0.005
GNM006B
79
80.1
0.005
GNM003B
0
1.5
0.026
GNM006B
80.1
81.43
0.005
GNM003B
1.5
3.1
<0.005
GNM006B
81.43
82.3
0.049
GNM003B
3.1
6
0.008
GNM006B
82.3
83.1
0.023
GNM003B
6
7.5
0.005
GNM006B
83.1
84.05
0.022
GNM003B
7.5
9.15
0.006
GNM006B
84.05
85.25
0.012
GNM003B
9.15
10.05
0.006
GNM006B
85.25
86.3
0.014
GNM003B
10.05
11
0.008
GNM006B
86.3
87.45
0.017
GNM003B
11
12
0.009
GNM006B
87.45
88.6
0.014
GNM003B
12
13.5
0.008
GNM006B
88.6
89.9
0.006
GNM003B
13.5
15.55
0.433
GNM006B
89.9
91.05
0.218
GNM003B
15.55
16.5
0.069
GNM006B
91.05
92
0.017
GNM003B
16.5
17.05
0.046
GNM006B
92
93
0.013
GNM003B
17.05
18.3
2.12
2.45m@1.17ppm
GNM006B
93
94
0.01
GNM003B
18.3
19.5
0.227
GNM006B
94
95
0.012
GNM003B
19.5
21.15
0.135
GNM006B
95
96
0.01
GNM003B
21.15
22.55
0.167
GNM006B
96
97
0.01
GNM003B
22.55
23.6
0.042
GNM006B
97
98
0.006
GNM003B
23.6
24.7
0.008
GNM006B
98
98.8
0.005
GNM003B
24.7
25.5
0.01
GNM006B
98.8
99.75
0.008
GNM003B
25.5
26.3
0.019
GNM006B
99.75
100.65
0.036
GNM003B
26.3
27.1
0.02
GNM006B
100.65
102
<0.005
GNM003B
27.15
27.95
0.042
GNM006B
102
103.25
0.006
GNM003B
27.95
29
0.04
GNM006B
103.25
104.15
<0.005
GNM003B
29
30
1.14
1m@1.14ppm
GNM006B
104.15
105
0.04
GNM003B
30
31.1
0.025
GNM007B
1.5
3
0.023
GNM003B
31.15
32.1
0.236
GNM007B
3
3.85
0.012
GNM003B
32.17
33.2
0.534
1.03m@0.534ppm
GNM007B
3.85
4.7
0.011
GNM003B
33.2
34.2
0.086
GNM007B
4.7
5.8
0.018
GNM003B
34.2
35.3
0.024
GNM007B
5.8
7
0.013
GNM003B
35.3
36.2
0.012
GNM007B
7
8
0.008
GNM003B
36.2
37.1
3.34
0.9m@3.34ppm
GNM007B
8
9
0.007
GNM003B
37.1
38
0.014
GNM007B
9
10
0.016
GNM003B
38
39
0.014
GNM007B
10
11
0.03
GNM003B
39
40.0
0.012
GNM007B
11
12
0.012
GNM003B
40.05
41.15
0.008
GNM007B
12
13
<0.005
GNM003B
41.15
42
0.008
GNM007B
13
14
0.006
GNM003B
42
42.9
0.663
0.95m@0.66ppm
GNM007B
14
14.9
<0.005
GNM003B
42.95
44
0.031
GNM007B
14.9
15.65
0.012
GNM003B
44
45.05
0.121
GNM007B
15.65
16.9
<0.005
GNM003B
45.05
46.25
0.459
1.2m@0.459ppm
GNM007B
16.9
18
0.026
GNM003B
46.25
47.35
0.185
GNM007B
18
19.5
<0.005
GNM003B
47.35
48.73
0.035
GNM007B
19.5
20.25
<0.005
GNM003B
48.73
50
0.024
GNM007B
20.25
21.93
<0.005
GNM003B
50
51.35
0.077
GNM007B
21.93
23.05
0.008
GNM003B
51.35
52.35
0.021
GNM007B
23.05
24.1
0.015
GNM003B
52.35
53.4
0.021
GNM007B
24.1
25.5
0.338
3.85m@0.94ppm
GNM003B
53.4
54.4
0.014
GNM007B
25.5
27.95
1.55
GNM003B
54.4
55.4
0.015
GNM007B
27.95
29.2
0.015
GNM003B
55.4
56.45
0.037
GNM007B
29.2
31
0.022
GNM003B
56.45
57.45
0.018
GNM007B
31
32
0.006
GNM003B
57.45
58.35
0.01
GNM007B
32
33
0.014
GNM003B
58.35
59.3
0.011
GNM007B
33
34
0.013
GNM003B
59.3
60.25
0.282
GNM007B
34
35.15
0.008
GNM003B
60.25
61.15
0.548
3.70m@0.63ppm
GNM007B
35.15
36
<0.005
GNM003B
61.15
62
0.404
GNM007B
36
37.4
<0.005
GNM003B
62
63
1.22
GNM007B
37.4
38.6
<0.005
GNM003B
63
63.95
0.357
GNM007B
38.6
40.5
0.025
GNM003B
63.95
65.2
0.039
GNM007B
40.5
41.8
0.042
GNM003B
65.2
66.4
0.015
GNM007B
41.8
43
<0.005
GNM003B
66.4
67.6
0.022
GNM007B
43
44.3
<0.005
GNM003B
67.6
68.85
0.008
GNM007B
44.3
45.4
0.007
GNM003B
68.85
70.1
0.01
GNM007B
45.4
46.6
0.016
GNM003B
70.1
71.2
0.01
GNM007B
46.6
47.95
<0.005
GNM003B
71.2
72.3
0.012
GNM007B
47.95
49.1
0.105
GNM003B
72.3
73.3
0.009
GNM007B
49.1
50.25
0.01
GNM003B
73.3
74.35
0.009
GNM007B
50.25
51.36
0.007
GNM003B
74.35
75.4
0.029
GNM007B
51.36
52.46
0.005
GNM003B
75.4
76.4
0.067
GNM007B
52.46
53.63
0.007
GNM003B
76.4
77.5
0.022
GNM007B
53.63
54.74
0.005
GNM003B
77.5
78.7
0.053
GNM007B
54.74
55.84
0.019
GNM003B
78.7
79.9
0.143
GNM007B
55.84
56.94
0.007
GNM003B
79.9
81.15
0.127
GNM007B
56.94
58
0.035
GNM003B
81.15
81.9
0.014
GNM007B
58
58.7
0.007
GNM003B
81.9
82.75
0.019
GNM007B
58.7
59.74
0.021
GNM003B
82.75
83.6
0.012
GNM007B
59.74
60.7
0.012
GNM003B
83.6
84.5
0.014
GNM007B
60.7
61.6
0.007
GNM003B
84.5
85.6
0.019
GNM007B
61.6
63.15
0.016
GNM003B
85.6
86.7
0.008
GNM007B
63.15
64.92
0.007
GNM003B
86.7
87.8
0.009
GNM007B
64.92
66.35
0.007
GNM003B
87.8
88.9
0.01
GNM007B
66.35
67.15
0.112
GNM003B
88.9
90
0.01
GNM007B
67.15
68.3
<0.005
GNM004B
1.5
2.1
0.045
GNM007B
68.3
69.43
0.008
GNM004B
2.1
3.6
0.018
GNM007B
69.43
70.35
0.005
GNM004B
3.6
5.15
0.013
GNM007B
70.35
71.8
0.006
GNM004B
5.15
6.7
0.019
GNM007B
71.8
72.65
0.153
GNM004B
6.7
7.7
0.017
GNM007B
72.65
73.52
<0.005
GNM004B
7.7
8.8
0.018
GNM007B
73.52
74.28
0.008
GNM004B
8.8
10
0.012
GNM007B
74.28
75.3
0.156
GNM004B
10
11
0.014
GNM007B
75.3
76.3
0.064
GNM004B
11
12
0.014
GNM007B
76.3
77.2
<0.005
GNM004B
12
13.25
0.017
GNM007B
77.2
78.1
<0.005
GNM004B
13.25
14.15
0.022
GNM007B
78.1
79.1
0.008
GNM004B
14.15
15.15
0.071
GNM007B
79.1
80.15
<0.005
GNM004B
15.15
17
0.02
GNM007B
80.15
81.08
<0.005
GNM004B
17
18.15
0.016
GNM007B
81.08
81.98
<0.005
GNM004B
18.15
19.27
0.013
GNM007B
81.98
82.8
0.01
GNM004B
19.27
21.27
0.018
GNM007B
82.8
84
0.006
GNM004B
21.27
22.5
0.01
GNM007B
84
85
0.034
GNM004B
22.5
23.45
0.012
GNM007B
85
86.1
0.025
GNM004B
23.45
25
0.012
GNM007B
86.1
87.2
0.035
GNM004B
25
26.15
0.036
GNM007B
87.2
88
0.013
GNM004B
26.15
28
0.021
GNM007B
88
89
<0.005
GNM004B
28
29.3
0.012
GNM007B
89
90
0.007
GNM004B
29.3
30.3
0.014
GNM007B
90
90.94
0.578
2.05m@0.58ppm
GNM004B
30.3
32
0.015
GNM007B
90.94
92.05
0.589
GNM004B
32
34
0.036
GNM007B
92.05
93.2
0.074
GNM004B
34
36.1
1.05
2.1m@1.05ppm
GNM007B
93.2
94.4
0.007
GNM004B
36.1
36.85
0.069
GNM007B
94.4
95.65
<0.005
GNM004B
36.85
37.65
0.347
GNM007B
95.65
96.6
0.009
GNM004B
37.65
39.5
0.023
GNM007B
96.6
97.6
<0.005
GNM004B
39.5
40.5
0.025
GNM007B
97.6
98.8
0.005
GNM004B
40.5
41.6
0.018
GNM007B
98.8
100
<0.005
Of the seven points drilled, six intercepted mineralization. The intercepts are summarised by lithology in the table below (
Table 2
).
Quartz veinlets in silicified andesite with fine sulphides
3.70m@0.68ppm
G004B
34.00 m to 36.10 m
Contact between Andesite and VS
2.10m@1.05ppm
G005B
31.00 m to 33.45 m
Veins of dark, brecciated quartz with fine sulphides
2.45m@1.64ppm
36.62 m to 39.00 m
Veins of dark, brecciated quartz with fine sulphides
2.38m@2.89ppm
G006B
48.20 m to 50.25 m
Brecciated quartz veinlets
2.05m@1.49ppm
69.90 m to 76.15 m
Contact between Andesite and VS
6.25m@0.81ppm
G007B
25.50 m to 27.95 m
Brecciated dark quartz vein with oxidised parts, probably oxidised sulphides
2.45m@1.55ppm
90.00 m to 92.05 m
Vein of whitish quartz with little mineralisation
2.05m@0.54ppm
Overall, 11 intercepts were identified from the interpretation of the gold assay results. Of these, 8 were controlled by quartz veins, with 7 by smoky quartz veins and 1 by white quartz veins. Mineralization in the Gnimi B zone is controlled by both lithology and structures. In conclusion, structural control takes precedence over lithological control, as contact zones are also interpreted as structures.
The emplacement of the TTGs by the upwelling of plutonic magmatism induced mineralizing fluids, which subsequently used the D2 structures as traps. These fluids originated from the interaction between the volcano-sedimentary host rock and the first-generation granitoids.
5. Discussion
This study, based on the analysis of data from mining holes, aims to decipher the controls on gold mineralization in the Gnimi-Yaboghane B zone. It is part of a broader study of the West African Craton, where gold mineralization is generally associated with greenstone belts and Paleoproterozoic tectono-metamorphic processes.
[1]
[4]
[15]
[29]
[30]
-
[33]
.
The study area consists of volcano-sedimentary rocks, basic rocks, and plutonic rocks metamorphosed during the Eburnian period, as described in other sectors of the West African Craton, notably in the Man Ridge
[1]
[17]
[29]
[34]
-
[35]
and in the Kaye and Kédougou-Kéniéba buttonholes
[36]
. The presence of TTG-trending granitoids, similar to those identified in the Boromo and Houndé belts
[2]
[4]
, suggests a comparable tectonic-magmato-metamorphic framework.
Structural analysis of the zone has identified three deformation phases: D1, D2, and D3. This pattern is consistent with observations made in other belts in Burkina Faso, such as Tenkodogo
[37]
[38]
, Gaoua, and Manga
[16]
, where up to four deformation phases have been documented (D1 to D4). These deformations played a decisive role in the development and control of gold mineralization. Indeed, several studies indicate that gold mineralization in the West African Craton is mainly controlled by structures developed during phases D2 and D3
[16]
-
[18]
[35]
[39]
[40]
.
Structural data and analysis of mineralized intercepts in the study area confirm this trend. Gold is mainly concentrated in smoky quartz veins, formed during the D2 deformation phase. This phase corresponds to the development of NE-SW shear corridors and the establishment of TTGs, which played a major role in the migration and precipitation of mineralizing fluids. In contrast, the weak mineralization observed in the white quartz veins associated with phase D3 suggests that this phase had a more limited impact on gold concentration.
6. Conclusions
This article highlights three groups of geological formations: metavolcano-sedimentary rocks, basic rocks, and the Tonalite-Trondhjemite-Granodiorite (TTG) family. Microscopic analysis of the metavolcano-sedimentary formations shows pressure shadows indicating zones of recrystallization, demonstrating the effects of metamorphism and deformation these formations have undergone. Basic rocks include gabbros with amphibolitic tendencies and metaandesites, forming intercalations with the volcano-sedimentary rocks. The TTG group is represented by granodioritic formations containing angular and rounded enclaves. These formations are hosted within and cross the volcano-sedimentary rocks.
At the end of this study, the structural analysis identified the structures controlling the mineralization: the smoky quartz veins and the white quartz veins. Interpretation of the structures by relative chronology allowed us to distinguish three deformation phases: D1, which trends N-S; D2, which trends NNE-SSW; and D3, which trends E-W.
Overall, the D2 structures are the most mineralized, having been mined by gold panning and intersected by drilling as a favorable zone. These structures can serve as metallotects for further exploration in this area and the South-West region in general. These metallotects should be combined with favorable lithologies and contact zones to produce a favorability map.
Acknowledgements
This work contributes to understanding the control of gold mineralization in the Gnimi-Yaboghane sector, Dano commune, Ioba Province, South-West Region. We thank the person in charge of the semi-mechanised Gnimi project, particularly the Managing Director of the Cooperative Society with a Board of Directors, Burkina Mining, and all his staff for providing accommodation and support for the field analyses. We also thank the head of the Geosciences and Environment Laboratory (LaGE) for preparing the slides and observing them under the microscope, as well as ACLABS Burkina Faso SARL and ALS laboratories for the gold analyses.
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