Multivariate Geochemistry in the Cofanes River Basin (Ecuador): Evidence of Hydrothermal Mineralization and Emerald Potential

Abstract

This study applies multivariate geochemical analysis to evaluate the hydrothermal mineralization potential in the Cofanes River basin (Sucumbíos, Ecuador), as part of the “Geological Research Project and Availability of Mineral Resource Occurrences in Ecuadorian Territory” developed by the Geological and Energy Research Institute (IIGE). The project aims to characterize areas with unexplored mineral potential using advanced geochemical techniques. A total of 74 stream sediment samples were analyzed using ICPMS, covering 53 elements. Low-variability variables were removed, and statistical controls were applied to outliers. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering helped identify relevant geochemical patterns. Element groupings of Be, Au, Mo, Zn, Pb, and rare earth elements (REE) were detected, concentrated in structurally controlled zones. The results suggest a favorable environment for hydrothermal mineralization and potential emerald occurrences. A preliminary geochemical zoning. This is the first study to present geochemical evidence of a potentially favorable environment for emeralds in Ecuador, opening a novel line of geological research in the region. Model is proposed as a basis for future exploration.