Stream sediment geochemical characteristics and prospecting direction in Karaqi area of Xinjiang

For the purpose of providing basic geological information for Karaqi area, 1∶50000 stream sediment survey was conducted which included geochemical characteristics and distribution regularity of 19 kinds of elements as well as delineation exceptions, and the relationship between anomalies and mineral resources was investigated. The authors analyzed the geochemical features of stream sediments as well as the relationships between elements, and found that the anomalies (high value areas) are strictly controlled by Kalatieke fault zone, Keyake fault zone, Tashinalatawu fault zone, Devonian strata and hydrothermal activities. According to the anomalies and the ore-forming geological conditions, the authors delineated four ore-searching prospective targets, i.e., Kalatieke, Bulong, Sakaerde and Lieyingchang. The results obtained by the authors can play an important guiding role in further ore-prospecting work.