Tectono-metamorphic trend of the Hamadan Metamorphic Complex with garnet zoning pattern in Aliabad-Damage metasandstone

Aliabad-Damagh region in SE of Hamadan contains both regional and contact metamorphic rocks. Garnet crystals present in many metamorphic rocks such as garnet schist, garnet- staurolite schist, amphibolite and metasandstone. In this study, garnet zoning in metasandstone investigated in order to interpret the origin and tectonic evolution of Hamadan metamorphic complex in Aliabad-Damagh region. Mainly dark metasandstones outcrops in south of Aliabad- Damagh are in the form of thin layers without schstosity within amphibolites and metapelites. The textures of metasandstones are granoblastic and granolepidoblastic. Main minerals are quartz, feldspar, mica and garnet. Garnet crystallized directly from the clay parts of the matrix in the medium grade metamorphic condition. Garnets are euhedral and based on fabric studies, garnets are formed during regional metamorphism. Point analyses from core to rim of garnet porphyroblasts show the main composition of almandine for garnets which Mn decreases and Fe and Mg increase from core to rim. Based on distribution of Fe, Mg and Mn the zoning patterns of crystals were normal and well preserved. The preservation of normal zoning in metasandstone garnet crystals indicate that the temperature of the regional metamorphism was not very high and metamorphism occurred maximum in the upper Greenschist facies and below the Amphibolite facies. The distribution of the elements in garnet zoning is reverse when the exhumation rate is low in orogenic trains. The presence of normal zoning in studied garnet crystals, confirm fast exhumation occurred after regional metamorphism in the area. Occurrence of dynamic metamorphism (P>>T) after pick of regional metamorphism in the Aliabad-Damagh could be evidence for such a rapid uplift.