In order to acquire a general view of main Alpine nappes and their lithologies we will first cross the Tethys ocean suture (Zermatt-Saas and Combin units of the ophiolitic Piedmont Zone) from the former European passive continental margin (now represented by the Monte Rosa nappe) to the Adria (Africa) continental margin (Sesia-Lanzo and Dent Blanche nappes).
We will then visit some of the most classical outcrops of Alpine geology in the NW Alps:
1) the Saint Marcel Fe-Cu hydrothermal sulphide deposits;
2) the famous Praborna Mn mine with its unique high-pressure Mn-bearing minerals;
3) the Cignana coesite locality and Crepin metagabbro (Valtournanche).
Attention will be especially focussed on the eclogitized ophiolites and hydrothermal oceanic deposits.
In addition hystorical aspects, Alpine views and regional setting will be taken in consideration.
The field trip will be concluded with the breathtaking view from Plateau Rosa, south of Cervino (Matterhorn), where we will be able to summarise the regional relationships of the collisional nappe stack and the ophiolite suture (remnants of the "lost Tethyan ocean"), and will have the opportunity to enjoy some last eclogite outcrops. |
