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Report on exploration of the Wadi Yiba copper prospect, Tihamat Ash Sham quadrangle, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Open-File Report 69-83
By:
https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr6983

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Abstract

The first phase of an exploration program at The Wadi Yiba copper prospect consisted of geologic mapping, prospecting, sampling, geophysical surveys, and diamond drilling. Copper mineralization is in a sedimentary rock sequence comprised mostly of siliceous, calcareous, and dolomitic rocks metamorphosed to the greenschist facies. The metasedimentary rocks are overlain and underlain by metavolcanic rocks. They are folded into a tight north-plunging syncline transected by two fault systems. Results from the exploration program indicate that a fault zone which sub-parallels the synclinal axis and cuts siliceous dolomite contains copper mineralization and small amounts of gold and silver. Copper and silver beaming pyroclastic rocks were found in the upper part of the metasedimentary rock sequence. Concentrations of copper mineralization seem to be restricted to particular rock units in the metasedimentary rock sequence. Primary sulfides have not been encountered in the drill holes to date and the results from one drill hole indicate secondary copper sulfide minerals to a vertical depth of 60 meters. Further exploration seems to be warranted and a program is proposed which includes the investigation of other mineral occurrences and geophysical anomalies in the region.

Study Area

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Report on exploration of the Wadi Yiba copper prospect, Tihamat Ash Sham quadrangle, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 69-83
DOI 10.3133/ofr6983
Year Published 1969
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Description 42 p. ill., maps ;27 cm.
Country Saudi Arabia
Online Only (Y/N) N
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details