Transtension, brittle-ductile shear zones and hydrothermal ore deposits: Towards quantitative structural and kinematic models

Transtension is a fundamental process for the development of hydrothermal ore deposits, since it allows the required extension and dilatancy for hydrothermal fluid circulation and resulting ore mineralization. Transtension operates at multiple scales and, therefore, is not only relevant for deposits linked with extensional tectonics but also for those related to contraction/transpression. In this context, brittle-ductile shear zones represent a first-order metallotect that control the emplacement of mineralization. The distribution of ore minerals is largely influenced by bulk strain, kinematics and strain fabrics of these mineralized structures. The modified strain triangle is proposed as a simple tool to characterize strain conditions of transtension-related ore deposits associated with brittle-ductile shear zones, providing valuable information for metallogenetic models. In addition, a structural classification of ore deposits is proposed, based on the discussion of key deposit types and case studies. The main advantage of this approach is that it mainly relies on quantitative structural data and, therefore, is extremely useful for exploration. Furthermore, this classification avoids a priori assumptions on the tectonic setting, which can subsequently be inferred based on further regional evidence. •Robust metallogenetic models require quantitative structural and kinematic data.•Transtension is fundamental for the development of ore deposits at multiple scales.•Shear zone kinematics and strain conditions are primary controls of ore distribution.•The strain triangle is useful to understand the 3D architecture of mineralizations.•A structural classification of hydrothermal ore deposits is presented.