| Abstract: | Gabbro breccias were recovered from an anomalously shallow level of the ocean crust during DSDP Leg 82. The rocks display evidence of metamorphic crystallization related either to localized deformation or to hydrothermal circulation of a seawater-derived fluid under static conditions. Secondary phases consist of plagioclase, amphibole and minor clinopyroxene, ilmenite, sphene and chlorite. Petrological study indicates that deformation took place at high temperature, under anhydrous conditions, and was followed by hydrothermal circulation. The compositions of secondary minerals (i.e. strong zonations, presence of chlorine in amphiboles, varying compositions of secondary plagioclase) indicate that reactions of the gabbros with the fluids occurred at a low water/rock ratio. Relations between Cl, Na and K in amphiboles suggest penetration of at least two distinct fluids of different compositions. Metamorphic crystallization stopped when greenschist facies conditions were reached( 350°C), probably because hydrothermal circulation faded out. |
