Soil geochemistry study of the listvenite area of Ayvacik (Çanakkale, Turkey)

Objective of this study is to use soil geochemistry surveys using statistical methods for the exploration of possibly gold mineralization related to Alakeçi listvenite area (Bayramiç, Çanakkale, Turkey). In the scope of soil geochemistry, about 350 soil samples were analyzed and evaluated for nine elements including gold. Element concentrations for Cu, Pb, Zn, As, Sb, Mo, Ni, Co and Au (all element except Au in ppm, Au in ppb) were 10-265, 10-90, 15-545, 5-800, 2-60, 4-8, 10-6300, 15-1255 and 40-300 respectively. The gold concentrations were comparatively detected in low value than important ore deposit and exhibited no correlation with other elements (except Mo). However, positive correlation was observed between Cu and Zn; Sb and As; Mo with As and Sb; Au and Mo; Ni and Co. In literature, Cu, Zn, As, Sb and Mo were widely used as pathfinder elements for exploration of gold mineralization. So, these elements were accepted as pathfinders in this study and their distribution maps were prepared. The element distribution maps for pathfinder elements and gold displayed remarkable zoning in the central to southeast site of the area connected with tectonic lines and lithological borders. So, in conclusion, this part in the area needs to be investigated in detailed with geophysics and drilling methods for blind gold mineralization.