Geologic interpretation of geophysical data for the Wadi al Jarir and Al Jurdhawiyah quadrangles, sheets 25/42 C and D, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Interpretations of aeromagnetic and gravity data made in support of geologic mapping clearly outline the near-surface shape of Proterozoic granitic units in the Wadi al Jarir (25/42 C) and Al Jurdhawiyah (25/42 D) 1:100,000-scale quadrangles of the northern part of the Arabian Shield. The aeromagnetic data show marked correlation with the surface geology, and the resulting interpretation defines nine magnetic provinces inferred to reflect bodies of granitic rock possessing homogeneous magnetic properties. Several magnetic lineations of possible structural significance are identified and probably relate to Najd faulting. Older structures of the Hijaz tectonic cycle cannot unequivocally be defined. Four of the younger granitic bodies are interpreted to be tabular in cross-section and of finite thickness on the basis of magnetic anomalies defined by high-amplitude, short-wavelength, positive anomalies along the southern margin of the body and counterpart negative anomalies along the northern margin. One of these bodies, a granodiorite porphyry in the northwestern part of the Al Jurdhawiyah quadrangle, is estimated to be from 4 to 7 km thick on the basis of calculations of gravity data. Older granites possess no edge anomalies and therefore are interpreted to extend to greater depth. Peralkaline granites are distinctively nonmagnetic and are identifiable in the aeromagnetic data as areas of little magnetic relief. Correlation of aeromagnetic data and mineral deposit information provide justification for some prospecting guides. Small granodiorite-porphyry plutons with distinct edge anomalies in Murdama metasediments commonly are associated with copper-gold-bearing quartz veins. Vein orientations in these and most other known deposits in the northeastern Shield cannot be sensibly related to the stress field of the Najd fault system, and are believed to predate the Najd or to have been governed by local factors. Small, weakly magnetic targets such as the Bald al Jimalah West tungsten deposit are not indicated by the regional magnetic data.