Abstract:

The superimposition between different oreforming events usually induced the formation of superimposed metallogenic systems in the long and complex oreforming processes. It is the major  cause for  the generation of many complex and compound mineral deposits. The special tectonic situation and the specific fabric composition make the Chinese mainland a compound and active continent, so caused the development of superimposed metallogenic systems in China. It is one of the most important features of regional metallogeny of China. On the basis of a brief retrospect on the research history of metallogenic systems, superimposed metallogenic effects (generation of large and rich ore deposits, complex composition of ores, etc.), forming mechanisms and major controlling factors (stable geochemical fields, overlap of oreforming structural belts, repeated activities of contemporaneous faults, geochemical barriers of some early ore beds, etc.) of superimposed metallogenic systems are discussed in this paper. Also basic types of superimposed metallogenic systems and their temporalspatial distribution are summarized.  Among them the superimposition between earlier  sedimentary mineralization and later magmatic hydrothermal mineralization is the most common combination of superimposed metallogenic systems. Complexity of superimposed oreforming processes caused  the complexity of a superimposed metallogenic system. So only through much more detailed and thorough research can we understand better  the superimposed metallogenic systems, including their forming mechanisms and processes. Research on superimposed metallogenic systems is very important both in recognizing regional metallogeny of China and in guiding mineral exploration activities.

Key words: superimposed metallogenic system; oreforming event; polygenetic mineral deposit; ore forming mechanism; temporalspatial distribution