Pyrite nodules in early cretaceous sandstone from Wadi Zerka, North Jordan

Abstract EN

Pyrite is present in many beds in dark grey siltstone and mudstone of Early Cretaceous age in Wadi Zerka, near Jar ash, north Jordan.

The pyrite occurs usually as pseu-domoiphs after wood fragments as well as open space fillings.

Scanning electron microscopy and reflected light investigations have shown that pyrite have formed at different stages with different textures.

Framboidal pyrite is common within a matrix of pyrite micocystals.

The framboids formed in the early diagenetic stage, pre-dating compaction of sediments.

Euhedral pyrite occurs as single crystals or as densely packed aggregated crystals between the framboids.

The euhedral, aggregated pyrite occurs in a later stage of diagenesis.

The pyrite formation was limited to decaying organic matter in closed local sulphidic microenvironments.