LAUSR

Abstract In this contribution an overview of oceanic lithosphere, associated ore deposits (sulphides, Fe and Mn oxides, chromitites) and their final destination in ophiolitic rocks are presented. This is followed by a discussion on massive sulphide mineralisation formed at mid-ocean ridges (MOR) and/or supra-subduction zones (SSZ). The geological characteristics and the genesis of the Cu-rich massive sulphide deposits of Cyprus and of the Oman ophiolite are discussed based on an extensive review of the published literature. This is followed by a synopsis of the ophiolitic terranes and associated mineral system in the Urals. We also present an overview of the ophiolitic belts and sutures of the Tethyan orogens, focussing on the podiform chromite deposits that they typically host, with a special focus on the ophiolitic chromitites of Turkey. A final section deals with possible ophiolites of Proterozoic and Archaean ages and, where applicable, associated chromitites. In the concluding remarks a brief note is made of some specific ancient seafloor hydrothermal constructs that have been interpreted as black chimneys in volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) deposits now hosted in ophiolitic sequences.