Abstract
New major and trace element analyses are presented for 7 kaersutites from basic alkaline rocks. K/Rb ratios lie between 1209 and 4276. Rb is low, averaging 6 ppm. Sr ranges from 532 to 1060 ppm and Ba from 181 to 701 ppm. Zr averages 109 ppm, Nb 44 ppm and V 390 ppm. There is a moderate enrichment in light REE. Zn correlates with FeO + Fe2O3 but the concentrations of Ni, Co, Cr, Cu and Pb are variable. Large variations in trace element concentration in kaersutites reflect only small variations in the melt when the distribution coefficient for a given element strongly favours the amphibole.
Kaersutite is significant in the petrogenesis of alkaline rocks as a possible accessory phase in the upper mantle source regions, and as an important phase in the fractionation of basic alkaline liquids over a wide range of pressures.
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Kesson, S., Price, R.C. The major and trace element chemistry of kaersutite and its bearing on the petrogenesis of alkaline rocks. Contr. Mineral. and Petrol. 35, 119–124 (1972). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00370923
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00370923