Classification, minerogenic models and prospecting of realgar/orpiment deposits in China

China's realgar/orpiment deposits may be classified into three types, the s tratabound, hot-water sedimentary and hydrothermal, according to their mine ralizing processes, geological occurrences, tectonic and geochemical featur es. The three types may be further distinguished into seven subtypes, namel y, the Xiaguan, Shuiluo, Jiepaiyu, Songpan, Shixia, Wangzhuang and Ninghsha n ones. On this basis three minerogenic models are established, and based o n studies of their geochemistry and minerogenic mechanisms the prerequisite s for prospecting for these types of deposits are given in the paper.