Abstract
The Bastar Craton of India is composed of Archaean nuclei of tonalite–trondhjemite–granodiorite gneisses, enveloped by an older granite–greenstone belt (>3000 Ma) with banded iron formation (BIF), and an auriferous younger granite–greenstone belt with BIF. Available geological, geochemical and geochronological data indicate multiple episodes of orogeny with high-grade metamorphism at 3200–3300, 2600–2700, 2100–2200, 1900–2000, 1800–1850, 1500–1600 and 1400–1450 Ma, and continental rifting and basin development marked by emplacement of mafic dyke swarms at c. 2900 (subalkaline mafic dykes; BD-1A), 2480 (high-Mg mafic dykes; BD-1B), 2100 (Fe–tholeiite dykes; BD-2A), 1880 (Fe–tholeiites dykes; BD-2B), 1776 and 1422 Ma. Associations of extensive bimodal volcanics and riftogenic sediments are found in the Neoarchaean and Palaeoproterozoic basins of the craton. Evidence of Palaeoproterozoic (Huronian) glaciation and associated ‘cap carbonate’ followed by deposition of fine clastics with manganese ore is found in the Palaeoproterozoic Sausar Group. The lithological association of the Sausar Group is comparable to the carbonate–tillite association of the Huronian Supergroup, Snowy Pass Supergroup, Transvaal Supergroup and Turee Creek Group. The geological evolution of the Bastar Craton matches that of Western Australia and South Africa. Such similarities can be analysed to develop a unified Palaeoproterozoic assembly for these provinces.
- © 2015 The Geological Society of London
Please note that if you are logged into the Lyell Collection and attempt to access content that is outside of your subscription entitlement you will be presented with a new login screen. You have the option to pay to view this content if you choose. Please see the relevant links below for further assistance.