Formation of the Denchai gem sapphires, Northern Thailand: Evidence from mineral chemistry and fluid/melt inclusion characteristics

Abstract

The Denchai gem sapphire deposits in Phrae Province, northern Thailand are closely associated with late Cenozoic alkaline basaltic rocks. The sapphires occur in alluvial placer deposits in palaeo-channels at shallow depths. Electron microprobe analysis of minor and trace element contents (Fe, Ti, Cr, Ga and V) of the sapphires indicate the following oxide abundances: Fe2O3 (0.32-1.98 wt.%), TiO2 (0.01-0.23 wt.%), Cr2O3 (<0.01 wt.%), Ga2O3 (0.01-0.03 wt.%) and V2O5 (<0.03 wt.%). Optical studies of sapphires revealed three types of primary fluid/melt inclusions. CO2-rich inclusions (Type I) contain three phases (LH2O + LCO2 + V) with the vapour phase comprising <10-15 vol.%. The presence of CO..