The lamproitic rocks of the southeastern Spain outcrop in an area of intense Alpine tectonic activity, marking the second cycle of the three episodes of volcanism in this region. These rocks contain large amounts of incompatible elements (Rb, Ba, Sr and Zn, etc.) as well as Cr, Ni and Y. Their rare earth element (REE) contents are very high (406-802 ppm), with Eu/Eu* ratios of 0.63 and 0.77. The initial Sr87/Sr86 ratios are also very high (0.715 and 0.720). According to the general view, these chemical features imply that crustal anatectic liquids have had a major role in the origin of the lamproite magmas of the southeastern Spain. In addition, the authors suggest that metapelites and metacarbonate rocks occurring in the regional basement can account for such an anatectic liquid.

proyeco CGL 2005-05963-

Peer reviewed