On the occurrence and boron isotopic composition of tourmaline in (ultra)high-pressure metamorphic rocks

The extensive P-T stability and the high chemical variability of tourmaline (Tur) together with its common occurrence in metasediments proves its high potential for petrological and (isotope) geochemical studies on fluid-rock interaction in subduction- and collision-related rocks. This paper reviews the occurrence, major element chemistry and boron isotopic composition of Tur in high- and ultrahigh-pressure metamorphic (UHPM) rocks. In addition, it presents a new discovery of coesite-bearing Tor (schorl) from the Erzgebirge (Germany), as well as Tur (dravite) related to the retrograde history of coesite- and diamond-bearing rocks from the Erzgebirge and the Kokchetav Massif (Kazakhstan). The scarce data on worldwide occurrences of (U)HPM Tor reveal a high occupation of the crystallographic X-site (dominated by Na) and the possible presence of excess B, with little further distinctiveness in its major element composition when compared with Tur from medium-grade rocks. High K2O contents in Tur are probably not related to UHP growth or equilibration. The B isotopic composition of (U)HPM Tur ranges in delta B-11 from -16 to +1 parts per thousand, with many samples in or below the range of continental crust. In contrast, Tur formed during retrograde fluid influx typically shows high delta B-11 values (up to +28 parts per thousand), suggesting heavy-B fluids infiltrating the exhuming (U)HPM units. Coesite inclusions in Tur, characterized by Raman spectroscopy, are regarded as the best indicator for its UHP stability.