Geothermal mineralization I: The mechanism of formation of the Beowawe, Nevada, siliceous sinter deposit.

Abstract

The three main steps recognized in this genetic process involve surfaceward movement of geothermal solutions that, in the first step, equilibrate with the quartz in surrounding rocks and become saturated with amorphous silica during cooling. During the second step the amorphous silica particles nucleate and produce a colloidal suspension. In the final step the amorphous particles agglomerate and are cemented to form sinter.-M.S.