Geology, alteration, mineralization and geochemical exploration in Simorgh prospective area, southwest of Nehbandan, South Khorasan

The Simorgh area is located about 113 km southwest of Nehbandan. Initial prospecting conducted by satellite data ASTER sensor with spectral angle mapper method, in order to identify probable alteration zones. The data, compared with field observations, have provided satisfactory results. This area consists of Eocene volcanic units in which various sub volcanic rocks have intruded in them. The major alteration includes propylitic, argillic, silicified and sericitic. Mineralzation at the surface is observed in the form of disseminated and hydrothermal breccias. The maximum distributed gold element is 93 ppb, Arsenic 35 ppm and molybdenum 33 ppm. Disseminated mineralization, associated with hydrothermal breccias, widespread alteration and their relationship with lithology and structural geology indicates the presence of a type of epithermal gold deposit hosted breccia.