The Role of Trans- Tensional Structures on Emplacement of Auriferous Epithermal Silica Zones in Southwest Sabalan, Northwest Iran

The Azerbaijan plateau is distinguished by varied geomorphology and mineralization, both of which controlled by the dominant structural regime in the area, that is associated with the collision of the Arabian and Eurasian plates. Strike slip faults are the main structural features controlling the development of various compressive or extensional zones in Azerbaijan. The dominant faults are striking NW-SE and NE-SW and display right lateral and left lateral displacements, respectively. The vergence of vectors on two sides of faults in the fault conjunctions, control the dominant stress regime, geomorphology, emplacement of dikes, as well as the gold-bearing silica veins. The bent parts and steps between different tips of faults are other controllers of dominated tectonic regime and emplacement of granitic stocks and gold bearing silica veins. Because of change on the strike of Ahar-Sarab fault, an extensional regime prevailed in southwest of Sabalan and silica veins injected in this area, some of these veins are auriferous.