OCCURRENCE OF SCORODITE IN AN AURIFEROUS ZONE OF GULALDIH AREA, SONBHADRA DISTRICT, UTTAR-PRADESH INDIA

The paper records the first occurrence of scorodite (FeAsO4.2H2O, hydrated iron arsenate) in the auriferous zone of Gulaldih area, Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh. The mode of occurrence, lithological assemblage, physical and microscopic characters of this mineral and its association with gold are discussed. The study area is situated about 35 km SW of Obra thermal power station in Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh (Figure 1). It exposes a volcano-sedimentary sequence, metamorphosed to the green schist to lower amphibotite facies belonging to Agori Formation of Mahakaosal Group. The main rock types include phyllite, metagreywacke, quartzite, banded magnetite quartzite and metabasics. The sequence is intruded by quartz veins and doterites.