Organizer: Manitoba, Ontario, Nova Scotia geological surveys and the Geological Survey of Canada in cooperation with St. Francis Xavier and Western universities

In this workshop we will address many aspects of pegmatite genesis including classification and mineral associations. Case studies will also be included focusing on structural controls and emplacement of Li-Cs- Ta pegmatites in Georgia Lake, Ontario; the use of artificial intelligence in Li-pegmatite exploration; The use of till geochemistry and indicator mineral methods for Li-Cs-Ta pegmatite exploration in glaciated terrains; and Li-Cs-Ta pegmatites in southern Newfoundland.

This short course would be useful to undergraduate and graduate students as the topic of pegmatites is not taught in depth in igneous petrology, exploration methods or mineral deposits classes. Exploration geologists should also find this course useful as there are many projects in Canada focusing on these types of rocks without much information specifically targeted for the private sector. Samples from known pegmatite deposits will be available for hands on learning including examples of the common ore minerals, textures and alteration mineral assemblages.

Top takeaways:

-How pegmatites form and become enriched in critical elements
-Overview of exploration techniques in LCT pegmatites
-Exploration techniques for Li-Cs-Ta pegmatites in glaciated terrains
-Structural controls and pegmatite emplacement
-Use of AI in Li pegmatite exploration