Charnockite microstructures: From magmatic to metamorphic

Charnockites sensu lato (charnockite-enderbite series) are lower crustal felsic rocks typically characterised by the presence of anhydrous minerals including orthopyroxene and garnet. They either represent dry (H2O-poor) felsic magmas that are emplaced in the lower crust or granitic intrusions that have been dehydrated during a subsequent granulite facies metamorphic event. In the first case, post-magmatic high-temperature recrystallisation may result in widespread metamorphic granulite microstructures, superimposed or replacing the magmatic microstructures. Despite recrystallisation, magmatic remnants may still be found, notably in the form of melt-related microstructures such as melt inclusions. For both magmatic charnockites and dehydrated granites, subsequent fluid-mineral interaction at intergrain boundaries during retrogradation are documented by microstructures including K-feldspar microveins and myrmekites. They indicate that a large quantity of low-H2O activity salt-rich brines, were present (together with CO2 under immiscible conditions) in the lower crust.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Igneous and metamorphic charnockites can be identified by typical microstructures. ► Microstructures can be obliterated by metamorphic recrystallisation. ► Charnockites may be affected by high-temperature metasomatism.