Geological and geochemical characteristics of the Qosha gold deposit and the role of rare elements in ore genesis

Abstract

Systematic geological investigations in the Qosha ore area began in 1966, when reconnaissance surveys at a scale of 1:50,000 were conducted between the Aghstafachay and Zayamchay river valleys. These initial studies led to the discovery of the Qosha gold deposit. Subsequent detailed exploration campaigns refined the geological framework of the deposit and resulted in the identification of 19 gold-bearing zones. From 2005 onward, Azerbaijan International Mining Company Limited carried out phased and comprehensive geological exploration, culminating in the commencement of commercial extraction in 2014. Scientific evaluations conducted by the company confirmed that the deposit belongs to the high-sulfidation epithermal genetic type. The geological characteristics of the system were investigated through an integrated analysis of hydrothermal alteration patterns, ore paragenesis, and the lithogeochemical properties of magmatic rocks that reflect the nature and origin of the hydrothermal fluids responsible for ore formation.