Newshot
Account

Hadean mantle depletion and 3.95-Gyr subduction implied by North China rocks

Summary

Nature, Published online: 11 November 2026; doi:10.1038/s41586-026-11280-2 Analysis of a 3.95-Gyr-old trondhjemitic gneiss from eastern Hebei, China, reveals a composition suggesting a low-temperature altered basaltic source, that originated from a mantle depleted in the Hadean, was most likely transported to mantle depths through a transient subduction event and partially melted to produce the trondhjemite.

Original text(via Nature)
题图
题图
  • Bowring, S. A. & Williams, I. S. Priscoan (4.00–4.03Ga) orthogneisses from northwestern Canada. Contrib. Mineral. Petrol. 134, 3–16 (1999).Article CAS Google Scholar

Bowring, S. A. & Williams, I. S. Priscoan (4.00–4.03Ga) orthogneisses from northwestern Canada. Contrib. Mineral. Petrol. 134, 3–16 (1999).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Reimink, J. R., Chacko, T., Stern, R. A. & Heaman, L. M. The birth of a cratonic nucleus: lithogeochemical evolution of the 4.02–2.94 Ga Acasta Gneiss Complex. Precambrian Res. 281, 453–472 (2016).Article CAS Google Scholar

Reimink, J. R., Chacko, T., Stern, R. A. & Heaman, L. M. The birth of a cratonic nucleus: lithogeochemical evolution of the 4.02–2.94 Ga Acasta Gneiss Complex. Precambrian Res. 281, 453–472 (2016).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Reimink, J. R., Chacko, T., Stern, R. A. & Heaman, L. M. Earth’s earliest evolved crust generated in an Iceland-like setting. Nat. Geosci. 7, 529–533 (2014).Article CAS Google Scholar

Reimink, J. R., Chacko, T., Stern, R. A. & Heaman, L. M. Earth’s earliest evolved crust generated in an Iceland-like setting. Nat. Geosci. 7, 529–533 (2014).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Moyen, J.-F. The composite Archaean grey gneisses: petrological significance, and evidence for a non-unique tectonic setting for Archaean crustal growth. Lithos 123, 21–36 (2011).Article CAS Google Scholar

Moyen, J.-F. The composite Archaean grey gneisses: petrological significance, and evidence for a non-unique tectonic setting for Archaean crustal growth. Lithos 123, 21–36 (2011).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • O’Neil, J., Carlson, R. W., Francis, D. & Stevenson, R. K. Neodymium-142 evidence for Hadean mafic crust. Science 321, 1828–1831 (2008).Article PubMed Google Scholar

O’Neil, J., Carlson, R. W., Francis, D. & Stevenson, R. K. Neodymium-142 evidence for Hadean mafic crust. Science 321, 1828–1831 (2008).

Article PubMed Google Scholar

  • Sole, C. et al. Evidence for Hadean mafic intrusions in the Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt, Canada. Science 388, 1431–1435 (2025).Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

Sole, C. et al. Evidence for Hadean mafic intrusions in the Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt, Canada. Science 388, 1431–1435 (2025).

Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

  • Augland, L. E. & David, J. Protocrustal evolution of the Nuvvuagittuq Supracrustal Belt as determined by high precision zircon Lu–Hf and U–Pb isotope data. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 428, 162–171 (2015).Article CAS Google Scholar

Augland, L. E. & David, J. Protocrustal evolution of the Nuvvuagittuq Supracrustal Belt as determined by high precision zircon Lu–Hf and U–Pb isotope data. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 428, 162–171 (2015).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Shimojo, M. et al. Occurrence and geochronology of the Eoarchean, ~3.9 Ga, Iqaluk Gneiss in the Saglek Block, northern Labrador, Canada: evidence for the oldest supracrustal rocks in the world. Precambrian Res. 278, 218–243 (2016).Article CAS Google Scholar

Shimojo, M. et al. Occurrence and geochronology of the Eoarchean, ~3.9 Ga, Iqaluk Gneiss in the Saglek Block, northern Labrador, Canada: evidence for the oldest supracrustal rocks in the world. Precambrian Res. 278, 218–243 (2016).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Cates, N. L. & Mojzsis, S. J. Pre-3750 Ma supracrustal rocks from the Nuvvuagittuq supracrustal belt, northern Québec. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 255, 9–21 (2007).Article CAS Google Scholar

Cates, N. L. & Mojzsis, S. J. Pre-3750 Ma supracrustal rocks from the Nuvvuagittuq supracrustal belt, northern Québec. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 255, 9–21 (2007).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Nutman, A. P. et al. Fifty years of the Eoarchean and the case for evolving uniformitarianism. Precambrian Res. 367, 106442 (2021).Article CAS Google Scholar

Nutman, A. P. et al. Fifty years of the Eoarchean and the case for evolving uniformitarianism. Precambrian Res. 367, 106442 (2021).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Harley, S. L. & Kelly, N. M. in Developments in Precambrian Geology Vol. 15 (eds van Kranendonk, M. J. et al.) 149–186 (Elsevier, 2007).
  • Liu, D. Y., Nutman, A. P., Compston, W., Wu, J. S. & Shen, Q. H. Remnants of ≥3800 Ma crust in the Chinese part of the Sino-Korean craton. Geology 20, 339–342 (1992).Article CAS Google Scholar

Liu, D. Y., Nutman, A. P., Compston, W., Wu, J. S. & Shen, Q. H. Remnants of ≥3800 Ma crust in the Chinese part of the Sino-Korean craton. Geology 20, 339–342 (1992).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Ge, R., Zhu, W., Wilde, S. A. & Wu, H. Remnants of Eoarchean continental crust derived from a subducted proto-arc. Sci. Adv. 4, eaao3159 (2018).Article PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar

Ge, R., Zhu, W., Wilde, S. A. & Wu, H. Remnants of Eoarchean continental crust derived from a subducted proto-arc. Sci. Adv. 4, eaao3159 (2018).

Article PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar

  • Johnson, T. E. et al. An impact melt origin for Earth’s oldest known evolved rocks. Nat. Geosci. 11, 795–799 (2018).Article CAS Google Scholar

Johnson, T. E. et al. An impact melt origin for Earth’s oldest known evolved rocks. Nat. Geosci. 11, 795–799 (2018).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Guitreau, M., Blichert-Toft, J., Martin, H., Mojzsis, S. J. & Albarède, F. Hafnium isotope evidence from Archean granitic rocks for deep-mantle origin of continental crust. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 337–338, 211–223 (2012).Article Google Scholar

Guitreau, M., Blichert-Toft, J., Martin, H., Mojzsis, S. J. & Albarède, F. Hafnium isotope evidence from Archean granitic rocks for deep-mantle origin of continental crust. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 337–338, 211–223 (2012).

Article Google Scholar

  • Dong, C. et al. New discovery of 3.84–3.64 Ga diverse granitoids in eastern Hebei, North China Craton: petrogenesis and significance. GSA Bull. 136, 5249–5261 (2024).Article CAS Google Scholar

Dong, C. et al. New discovery of 3.84–3.64 Ga diverse granitoids in eastern Hebei, North China Craton: petrogenesis and significance. GSA Bull. 136, 5249–5261 (2024).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • OʼNeil, J., Boyet, M., Carlson, R. W. & Paquette, J.-L. Half a billion years of reworking of Hadean mafic crust to produce the Nuvvuagittuq Eoarchean felsic crust. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 379, 13–25 (2013).Article Google Scholar

OʼNeil, J., Boyet, M., Carlson, R. W. & Paquette, J.-L. Half a billion years of reworking of Hadean mafic crust to produce the Nuvvuagittuq Eoarchean felsic crust. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 379, 13–25 (2013).

Article Google Scholar

  • Wang, D., Qiu, X.-F. & Carlson, R. W. The Eoarchean Muzidian gneiss complex: long-lived Hadean crustal components in the building of Archean continents. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 605, 118037 (2023).Article CAS Google Scholar

Wang, D., Qiu, X.-F. & Carlson, R. W. The Eoarchean Muzidian gneiss complex: long-lived Hadean crustal components in the building of Archean continents. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 605, 118037 (2023).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Bennett, V. C., Brandon, A. D. & Nutman, A. P. Coupled 142Nd-143Nd isotopic evidence for Hadean mantle dynamics. Science 318, 1907–1910 (2007).Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

Bennett, V. C., Brandon, A. D. & Nutman, A. P. Coupled 142Nd-143Nd isotopic evidence for Hadean mantle dynamics. Science 318, 1907–1910 (2007).

Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

  • Rizo, H., Boyet, M., Blichert-Toft, J. & Rosing, M. T. Early mantle dynamics inferred from 142Nd variations in Archean rocks from southwest Greenland. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 377–378, 324–335 (2013).Article Google Scholar

Rizo, H., Boyet, M., Blichert-Toft, J. & Rosing, M. T. Early mantle dynamics inferred from 142Nd variations in Archean rocks from southwest Greenland. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 377–378, 324–335 (2013).

Article Google Scholar

  • Li, C.-F. et al. Differentiation of the early silicate Earth as recorded by 142Nd-143Nd in 3.8–3.0 Ga rocks from the Anshan Complex, North China Craton. Precambrian Res. 301, 86–101 (2017).Article CAS Google Scholar

Li, C.-F. et al. Differentiation of the early silicate Earth as recorded by 142Nd-143Nd in 3.8–3.0 Ga rocks from the Anshan Complex, North China Craton. Precambrian Res. 301, 86–101 (2017).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Liou, P. et al. Long-term isolation of Hadean mantle domains revealed from coupled 147-146Sm-143-142Nd systematics in the eastern North China Craton. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 638, 118761 (2024).Article Google Scholar

Liou, P. et al. Long-term isolation of Hadean mantle domains revealed from coupled 147-146Sm-143-142Nd systematics in the eastern North China Craton. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 638, 118761 (2024).

Article Google Scholar

  • Vervoort, J. D. & Kemp, A. I. S. Isotope evolution of the depleted mantle. Annu. Rev. Earth Planet. Sci. 53, 195–221 (2025).Article CAS Google Scholar

Vervoort, J. D. & Kemp, A. I. S. Isotope evolution of the depleted mantle. Annu. Rev. Earth Planet. Sci. 53, 195–221 (2025).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Valley, J. W. et al. 4.4 billion years of crustal maturation: oxygen isotope ratios of magmatic zircon. Contrib. Mineral. Petrol. 150, 561–580 (2005).Article CAS Google Scholar

Valley, J. W. et al. 4.4 billion years of crustal maturation: oxygen isotope ratios of magmatic zircon. Contrib. Mineral. Petrol. 150, 561–580 (2005).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Chen, R.-X., Zheng, Y.-F. & Xie, L. Metamorphic growth and recrystallization of zircon: distinction by simultaneous in-situ analyses of trace elements, U–Th–Pb and Lu–Hf isotopes in zircons from eclogite-facies rocks in the Sulu orogen. Lithos 114, 132–154 (2010).Article CAS Google Scholar

Chen, R.-X., Zheng, Y.-F. & Xie, L. Metamorphic growth and recrystallization of zircon: distinction by simultaneous in-situ analyses of trace elements, U–Th–Pb and Lu–Hf isotopes in zircons from eclogite-facies rocks in the Sulu orogen. Lithos 114, 132–154 (2010).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Ge, R.-F., Wilde, S. A., Zhu, W.-B. & Wang, X.-L. Earth’s early continental crust formed from wet and oxidizing arc magmas. Nature 623, 334–339 (2023).Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

Ge, R.-F., Wilde, S. A., Zhu, W.-B. & Wang, X.-L. Earth’s early continental crust formed from wet and oxidizing arc magmas. Nature 623, 334–339 (2023).

Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

  • Koshida, K., Ishikawa, A., Iwamori, H. & Komiya, T. Petrology and geochemistry of mafic rocks in the Acasta Gneiss Complex: implications for the oldest mafic rocks and their origin. Precambrian Res. 283, 190–207 (2016).Article CAS Google Scholar

Koshida, K., Ishikawa, A., Iwamori, H. & Komiya, T. Petrology and geochemistry of mafic rocks in the Acasta Gneiss Complex: implications for the oldest mafic rocks and their origin. Precambrian Res. 283, 190–207 (2016).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Rollinson, H. Do all Archaean TTG rock compositions represent former melts? Precambrian Res. 367, 106448 (2021).Article CAS Google Scholar

Rollinson, H. Do all Archaean TTG rock compositions represent former melts? Precambrian Res. 367, 106448 (2021).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Liou, P. & Guo, J. Generation of Archaean TTG gneisses through amphibole-dominated fractionation. J. Geophys. Res. Solid Earth 124, 3605–3619 (2019).Article Google Scholar

Liou, P. & Guo, J. Generation of Archaean TTG gneisses through amphibole-dominated fractionation. J. Geophys. Res. Solid Earth 124, 3605–3619 (2019).

Article Google Scholar

  • Laurent, O. et al. Earth’s earliest granitoids are crystal-rich magma reservoirs tapped by silicic eruptions. Nat. Geosci. 13, 163–169 (2020).
  • Tiepolo, M., Oberti, R., Zanetti, A., Vannucci, R. & Foley, S. F. Trace-element partitioning between amphibole and silicate melt. Rev. Mineral. Geochem. 67, 417–452 (2007).Article CAS Google Scholar

Tiepolo, M., Oberti, R., Zanetti, A., Vannucci, R. & Foley, S. F. Trace-element partitioning between amphibole and silicate melt. Rev. Mineral. Geochem. 67, 417–452 (2007).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Kemp, A. I. S. et al. Hadean crustal evolution revisited: new constraints from Pb–Hf isotope systematics of the Jack Hills zircons. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 296, 45–56 (2010).Article CAS Google Scholar

Kemp, A. I. S. et al. Hadean crustal evolution revisited: new constraints from Pb–Hf isotope systematics of the Jack Hills zircons. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 296, 45–56 (2010).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Amelin, Y., Kamo, S. L. & Lee, D.-C. Evolution of early crust in chondritic or non-chondritic Earth inferred from U–Pb and Lu–Hf data for chemically abraded zircon from the Itsaq Gneiss Complex, West Greenland. Can. J. Earth Sci. 48, 141–160 (2011).Article CAS Google Scholar

Amelin, Y., Kamo, S. L. & Lee, D.-C. Evolution of early crust in chondritic or non-chondritic Earth inferred from U–Pb and Lu–Hf data for chemically abraded zircon from the Itsaq Gneiss Complex, West Greenland. Can. J. Earth Sci. 48, 141–160 (2011).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Hiess, J., Bennett, V. C., Nutman, A. P. & Williams, I. S. In situ U–Pb, O and Hf isotopic compositions of zircon and olivine from Eoarchaean rocks, West Greenland: new insights to making old crust. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 73, 4489–4516 (2009).Article CAS Google Scholar

Hiess, J., Bennett, V. C., Nutman, A. P. & Williams, I. S. In situ U–Pb, O and Hf isotopic compositions of zircon and olivine from Eoarchaean rocks, West Greenland: new insights to making old crust. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 73, 4489–4516 (2009).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Wu, F.-Y., Zhang, Y.-B., Yang, J.-H., Xie, L.-W. & Yang, Y.-H. Zircon U–Pb and Hf isotopic constraints on the Early Archean crustal evolution in Anshan of the North China Craton. Precambrian Res. 167, 339–362 (2008).Article CAS Google Scholar

Wu, F.-Y., Zhang, Y.-B., Yang, J.-H., Xie, L.-W. & Yang, Y.-H. Zircon U–Pb and Hf isotopic constraints on the Early Archean crustal evolution in Anshan of the North China Craton. Precambrian Res. 167, 339–362 (2008).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Vezinet, A. et al. Growth of continental crust and lithosphere subduction in the Hadean revealed by geochemistry and geodynamics. Nat. Commun. 16, 3850 (2025).Article CAS PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar

Vezinet, A. et al. Growth of continental crust and lithosphere subduction in the Hadean revealed by geochemistry and geodynamics. Nat. Commun. 16, 3850 (2025).

Article CAS PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar

  • Rosas, J. C. & Korenaga, J. Rapid crustal growth and efficient crustal recycling in the early Earth: implications for Hadean and Archean geodynamics. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 494, 42–49 (2018).Article Google Scholar

Rosas, J. C. & Korenaga, J. Rapid crustal growth and efficient crustal recycling in the early Earth: implications for Hadean and Archean geodynamics. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 494, 42–49 (2018).

Article Google Scholar

  • Herzberg, C., Condie, K. & Korenaga, J. Thermal history of the Earth and its petrological expression. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 292, 79–88 (2010).Article CAS Google Scholar

Herzberg, C., Condie, K. & Korenaga, J. Thermal history of the Earth and its petrological expression. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 292, 79–88 (2010).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Johnson, T. E., Brown, M., Gardiner, N. J., Kirkland, C. L. & Smithies, R. H. Earth’s first stable continents did not form by subduction. Nature 543, 239–242 (2017).Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

Johnson, T. E., Brown, M., Gardiner, N. J., Kirkland, C. L. & Smithies, R. H. Earth’s first stable continents did not form by subduction. Nature 543, 239–242 (2017).

Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

  • Smithies, R. H. et al. Oxygen isotopes trace the origins of Earth’s earliest continental crust. Nature 592, 70–75 (2021).Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

Smithies, R. H. et al. Oxygen isotopes trace the origins of Earth’s earliest continental crust. Nature 592, 70–75 (2021).

Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

  • Moore, W. B. & Webb, A. A. G. Heat-pipe Earth. Nature 501, 501–505 (2013).Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

Moore, W. B. & Webb, A. A. G. Heat-pipe Earth. Nature 501, 501–505 (2013).

Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

  • Gerya, T. V., Stern, R. J., Baes, M., Sobolev, S. V. & Whattam, S. A. Plate tectonics on the Earth triggered by plume-induced subduction initiation. Nature 527, 221–225 (2015).Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

Gerya, T. V., Stern, R. J., Baes, M., Sobolev, S. V. & Whattam, S. A. Plate tectonics on the Earth triggered by plume-induced subduction initiation. Nature 527, 221–225 (2015).

Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

  • Baes, M., Sobolev, S., Gerya, T., Stern, R. & Brune, S. Plate motion and plume-induced subduction initiation. Gondwana Res. 98, 277–288 (2021).Article Google Scholar

Baes, M., Sobolev, S., Gerya, T., Stern, R. & Brune, S. Plate motion and plume-induced subduction initiation. Gondwana Res. 98, 277–288 (2021).

Article Google Scholar

  • O’Neill, C., Marchi, S., Zhang, S. & Bottke, W. Impact-driven subduction on the Hadean Earth. Nat. Geosci. 10, 793–797 (2017).Article Google Scholar

O’Neill, C., Marchi, S., Zhang, S. & Bottke, W. Impact-driven subduction on the Hadean Earth. Nat. Geosci. 10, 793–797 (2017).

Article Google Scholar

  • Kitoga, L. S. et al. Silicified seafloor contribution to TTG formation: insights from zircon O and Si isotopes. Geochem. Perspect. Lett. 39, 22–27 (2026).Article Google Scholar

Kitoga, L. S. et al. Silicified seafloor contribution to TTG formation: insights from zircon O and Si isotopes. Geochem. Perspect. Lett. 39, 22–27 (2026).

Article Google Scholar

  • Griffin, W. L. et al. The Hf isotope composition of cratonic mantle: LAM-MC-ICPMS analysis of zircon megacrysts in kimberlites. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 64, 133–147 (2000).Article CAS Google Scholar

Griffin, W. L. et al. The Hf isotope composition of cratonic mantle: LAM-MC-ICPMS analysis of zircon megacrysts in kimberlites. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 64, 133–147 (2000).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Griffin, W. L. et al. Zircon chemistry and magma mixing, SE China: in-situ analysis of Hf isotopes, Tonglu and Pingtan igneous complexes. Lithos 61, 237–269 (2002).Article CAS Google Scholar

Griffin, W. L. et al. Zircon chemistry and magma mixing, SE China: in-situ analysis of Hf isotopes, Tonglu and Pingtan igneous complexes. Lithos 61, 237–269 (2002).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Amelin, Y., Lee, D.-C., Halliday, A. N. & Pidgeon, R. T. Nature of the Earth’s earliest crust from hafnium isotopes in single detrital zircons. Nature 399, 252–255 (1999).Article CAS Google Scholar

Amelin, Y., Lee, D.-C., Halliday, A. N. & Pidgeon, R. T. Nature of the Earth’s earliest crust from hafnium isotopes in single detrital zircons. Nature 399, 252–255 (1999).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Black, L. P. et al. Improved 206Pb/238U microprobe geochronology by the monitoring of a trace-element-related matrix effect; SHRIMP, ID–TIMS, ELA–ICP–MS and oxygen isotope documentation for a series of zircon standards. Chem. Geol. 205, 115–140 (2004).Article CAS Google Scholar

Black, L. P. et al. Improved 206Pb/238U microprobe geochronology by the monitoring of a trace-element-related matrix effect; SHRIMP, ID–TIMS, ELA–ICP–MS and oxygen isotope documentation for a series of zircon standards. Chem. Geol. 205, 115–140 (2004).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Wiedenbeck, M. et al. Further characterisation of the 91500 zircon crystal. Geostand. Geoanalytical Res. 28, 9–39 (2004).Article CAS Google Scholar

Wiedenbeck, M. et al. Further characterisation of the 91500 zircon crystal. Geostand. Geoanalytical Res. 28, 9–39 (2004).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Williams, I. S. in Applications of Microanalytical Techniques to Understanding Mineralizing Processes Vol. 7 (eds McKibben, M.A. et al.) 1–35 (Society of Economic Geologists, Inc., 1998).
  • Nasdala, L. et al. Zircon M257 - a homogeneous natural reference material for the ion microprobe U-Pb analysis of zircon. Geostand. Geoanalytical Res. 32, 247–265 (2008).Article CAS Google Scholar

Nasdala, L. et al. Zircon M257 - a homogeneous natural reference material for the ion microprobe U-Pb analysis of zircon. Geostand. Geoanalytical Res. 32, 247–265 (2008).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Stacey, J. S. & Kramers, J. D. Approximation of terrestrial lead isotope evolution by a two-stage model. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 26, 207–221 (1975).Article CAS Google Scholar

Stacey, J. S. & Kramers, J. D. Approximation of terrestrial lead isotope evolution by a two-stage model. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 26, 207–221 (1975).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Ludwig, K. R. SQUID 1.02, A User’s Manual. Berkeley Geochronology Center Special Publication No. 2, 17 pp (2001).
  • Ludwig, K. R. User’s Manual for Isoplot 3.00: A Geochronological Toolkit for Microsoft Excel. Berkeley Geochronology Center Special Publication No. 4, 71 pp (2003).
  • Ickert, R. B. et al. Determining high precision, in situ, oxygen isotope ratios with a SHRIMP II: analyses of MPI-DING silicate-glass reference materials and zircon from contrasting granites. Chem. Geol. 257, 114–128 (2008).Article CAS Google Scholar

Ickert, R. B. et al. Determining high precision, in situ, oxygen isotope ratios with a SHRIMP II: analyses of MPI-DING silicate-glass reference materials and zircon from contrasting granites. Chem. Geol. 257, 114–128 (2008).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Wan, Y. et al. Extreme zircon O isotopic compositions from 3.8 to 2.5 Ga magmatic rocks from the Anshan area, North China Craton. Chem. Geol. 352, 108–124 (2013).Article CAS Google Scholar

Wan, Y. et al. Extreme zircon O isotopic compositions from 3.8 to 2.5 Ga magmatic rocks from the Anshan area, North China Craton. Chem. Geol. 352, 108–124 (2013).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Coble, M. A. et al. Trace element characterisation of MAD-559 zircon reference material for ion microprobe analysis. Geostand. Geoanalytical Res. 42, 481–497 (2018).Article CAS Google Scholar

Coble, M. A. et al. Trace element characterisation of MAD-559 zircon reference material for ion microprobe analysis. Geostand. Geoanalytical Res. 42, 481–497 (2018).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Yuan, H.-L. et al. Simultaneous determinations of U–Pb age, Hf isotopes and trace element compositions of zircon by excimer laser-ablation quadrupole and multiple-collector ICP-MS. Chem. Geol. 247, 100–118 (2008).Article CAS Google Scholar

Yuan, H.-L. et al. Simultaneous determinations of U–Pb age, Hf isotopes and trace element compositions of zircon by excimer laser-ablation quadrupole and multiple-collector ICP-MS. Chem. Geol. 247, 100–118 (2008).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Bao, Z. et al. Comparison of synthetic zircon, high-temperature and high-pressure sintered zircon and fast hot-pressing sintered zircon for in situ hafnium isotope analysis by LA-MC-ICP-MS. J. Anal. At. Spectrom. 38, 2313–2323 (2023).Article CAS Google Scholar

Bao, Z. et al. Comparison of synthetic zircon, high-temperature and high-pressure sintered zircon and fast hot-pressing sintered zircon for in situ hafnium isotope analysis by LA-MC-ICP-MS. J. Anal. At. Spectrom. 38, 2313–2323 (2023).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Patchett, P. J. & Tatsumoto, M. A routine high-precision method for Lu-Hf isotope geochemistry and chronology. Contrib. Mineral. Petrol. 75, 263–267 (1981).Article CAS Google Scholar

Patchett, P. J. & Tatsumoto, M. A routine high-precision method for Lu-Hf isotope geochemistry and chronology. Contrib. Mineral. Petrol. 75, 263–267 (1981).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Thirlwall, M. F. & Anczkiewicz, R. Multidynamic isotope ratio analysis using MC–ICP–MS and the causes of secular drift in Hf, Nd and Pb isotope ratios. Int. J. Mass Spectrom. 235, 59–81 (2004).Article CAS Google Scholar

Thirlwall, M. F. & Anczkiewicz, R. Multidynamic isotope ratio analysis using MC–ICP–MS and the causes of secular drift in Hf, Nd and Pb isotope ratios. Int. J. Mass Spectrom. 235, 59–81 (2004).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Vervoort, J. D., Patchett, P. J., Söderlund, U. & Baker, M. Isotopic composition of Yb and the determination of Lu concentrations and Lu/Hf ratios by isotope dilution using MC-ICPMS. Geochem. Geophys. Geosyst. 5, Q11002 (2004).Article Google Scholar

Vervoort, J. D., Patchett, P. J., Söderlund, U. & Baker, M. Isotopic composition of Yb and the determination of Lu concentrations and Lu/Hf ratios by isotope dilution using MC-ICPMS. Geochem. Geophys. Geosyst. 5, Q11002 (2004).

Article Google Scholar

  • Sláma, J. et al. Plešovice zircon — a new natural reference material for U–Pb and Hf isotopic microanalysis. Chem. Geol. 249, 1–35 (2008).Article Google Scholar

Sláma, J. et al. Plešovice zircon — a new natural reference material for U–Pb and Hf isotopic microanalysis. Chem. Geol. 249, 1–35 (2008).

Article Google Scholar

  • Fisher, C. M., Vervoort, J. D. & DuFrane, S. A. Accurate Hf isotope determinations of complex zircons using the “laser ablation split stream” method. Geochem. Geophys. Geosyst. 15, 121–139 (2014).Article CAS Google Scholar

Fisher, C. M., Vervoort, J. D. & DuFrane, S. A. Accurate Hf isotope determinations of complex zircons using the “laser ablation split stream” method. Geochem. Geophys. Geosyst. 15, 121–139 (2014).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Söderlund, U., Patchett, P. J., Vervoort, J. D. & Isachsen, C. E. The 176Lu decay constant determined by Lu–Hf and U–Pb isotope systematics of Precambrian mafic intrusions. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 219, 311–324 (2004).Article Google Scholar

Söderlund, U., Patchett, P. J., Vervoort, J. D. & Isachsen, C. E. The 176Lu decay constant determined by Lu–Hf and U–Pb isotope systematics of Precambrian mafic intrusions. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 219, 311–324 (2004).

Article Google Scholar

  • Bouvier, A., Vervoort, J. D. & Patchett, P. J. The Lu–Hf and Sm–Nd isotopic composition of CHUR: constraints from unequilibrated chondrites and implications for the bulk composition of terrestrial planets. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 273, 48–57 (2008).Article CAS Google Scholar

Bouvier, A., Vervoort, J. D. & Patchett, P. J. The Lu–Hf and Sm–Nd isotopic composition of CHUR: constraints from unequilibrated chondrites and implications for the bulk composition of terrestrial planets. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 273, 48–57 (2008).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Ickert, R. B. Algorithms for estimating uncertainties in initial radiogenic isotope ratios and model ages. Chem. Geol. 340, 131–138 (2013).Article CAS Google Scholar

Ickert, R. B. Algorithms for estimating uncertainties in initial radiogenic isotope ratios and model ages. Chem. Geol. 340, 131–138 (2013).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Furnes, H., Rosing, M., Dilek, Y. & de Wit, M. Isua supracrustal belt (Greenland)—a vestige of a 3.8 Ga suprasubduction zone ophiolite, and the implications for Archean geology. Lithos 113, 115–132 (2009).Article CAS Google Scholar

Furnes, H., Rosing, M., Dilek, Y. & de Wit, M. Isua supracrustal belt (Greenland)—a vestige of a 3.8 Ga suprasubduction zone ophiolite, and the implications for Archean geology. Lithos 113, 115–132 (2009).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Hoffmann, J. E. et al. Mechanisms of Archean crust formation inferred from high-precision HFSE systematics in TTGs. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 75, 4157–4178 (2011).Article CAS Google Scholar

Hoffmann, J. E. et al. Mechanisms of Archean crust formation inferred from high-precision HFSE systematics in TTGs. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 75, 4157–4178 (2011).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • O’Neil, J., Francis, D. & Carlson, R. W. Implications of the Nuvvuagittuq greenstone belt for the formation of Earth’s early crust. J. Petrol. 52, 985–1009 (2011).Article Google Scholar

O’Neil, J., Francis, D. & Carlson, R. W. Implications of the Nuvvuagittuq greenstone belt for the formation of Earth’s early crust. J. Petrol. 52, 985–1009 (2011).

Article Google Scholar

  • O’Neil, J., Carlson, R. W., Papineau, D., Levine, E. Y. & Francis, D. in Earth’s Oldest Rocks 2nd edn (eds van Kranendonk, M. J. et al.) 349–374 (Elsevier, 2019).
  • Caro, G., Morino, P., Mojzsis, S. J., Cates, N. L. & Bleeker, W. Sluggish Hadean geodynamics: evidence from coupled 146,147Sm–142,143Nd systematics in Eoarchean supracrustal rocks of the Inukjuak domain (Québec). Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 457, 23–37 (2017).Article CAS Google Scholar

Caro, G., Morino, P., Mojzsis, S. J., Cates, N. L. & Bleeker, W. Sluggish Hadean geodynamics: evidence from coupled 146,147Sm–142,143Nd systematics in Eoarchean supracrustal rocks of the Inukjuak domain (Québec). Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 457, 23–37 (2017).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Wasilewski, B., O’Neil, J. & Rizo, H. Geochemistry and petrogenesis of the early Archean mafic crust from the Saglek-Hebron Complex (Northern Labrador). Precambrian Res. 328, 321–343 (2019).Article CAS Google Scholar

Wasilewski, B., O’Neil, J. & Rizo, H. Geochemistry and petrogenesis of the early Archean mafic crust from the Saglek-Hebron Complex (Northern Labrador). Precambrian Res. 328, 321–343 (2019).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Vigneresse, J. L., Barbey, P. & Cuney, M. Rheological transitions during partial melting and crystallization with application to felsic magma segregation and transfer. J. Petrol. 37, 1579–1600 (1996).Article CAS Google Scholar

Vigneresse, J. L., Barbey, P. & Cuney, M. Rheological transitions during partial melting and crystallization with application to felsic magma segregation and transfer. J. Petrol. 37, 1579–1600 (1996).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Brown, M. Crustal melting and melt extraction, ascent and emplacement in orogens: mechanisms and consequences. J. Geol. Soc. 164, 709–730 (2007).Article CAS Google Scholar

Brown, M. Crustal melting and melt extraction, ascent and emplacement in orogens: mechanisms and consequences. J. Geol. Soc. 164, 709–730 (2007).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Rosenberg, C. L. & Handy, M. R. Experimental deformation of partially melted granite revisited: implications for the continental crust. J. Metamorph. Geol. 23, 19–28 (2005).Article Google Scholar

Rosenberg, C. L. & Handy, M. R. Experimental deformation of partially melted granite revisited: implications for the continental crust. J. Metamorph. Geol. 23, 19–28 (2005).

Article Google Scholar

  • Xiang, H. & Connolly, J. A. D. GeoPS: an interactive visual computing tool for thermodynamic modelling of phase equilibria. J. Metamorph. Geol. 40, 243–255 (2022).Article CAS Google Scholar

Xiang, H. & Connolly, J. A. D. GeoPS: an interactive visual computing tool for thermodynamic modelling of phase equilibria. J. Metamorph. Geol. 40, 243–255 (2022).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Holland, T. J. B. & Powell, R. An improved and extended internally consistent thermodynamic dataset for phases of petrological interest, involving a new equation of state for solids. J. Metamorph. Geol. 29, 333–383 (2011).Article CAS Google Scholar

Holland, T. J. B. & Powell, R. An improved and extended internally consistent thermodynamic dataset for phases of petrological interest, involving a new equation of state for solids. J. Metamorph. Geol. 29, 333–383 (2011).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Green, E. C. R. et al. Activity–composition relations for the calculation of partial melting equilibria in metabasic rocks. J. Metamorph. Geol. 34, 845–869 (2016).Article CAS Google Scholar

Green, E. C. R. et al. Activity–composition relations for the calculation of partial melting equilibria in metabasic rocks. J. Metamorph. Geol. 34, 845–869 (2016).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • White, R. W., Powell, R. & Johnson, T. E. The effect of Mn on mineral stability in metapelites revisited: new a–x relations for manganese-bearing minerals. J. Metamorph. Geol. 32, 809–828 (2014).Article CAS Google Scholar

White, R. W., Powell, R. & Johnson, T. E. The effect of Mn on mineral stability in metapelites revisited: new a–x relations for manganese-bearing minerals. J. Metamorph. Geol. 32, 809–828 (2014).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Holland, T. & Powell, R. Activity–composition relations for phases in petrological calculations: an asymmetric multicomponent formulation. Contrib. Mineral. Petrol. 145, 492–501 (2003).Article CAS Google Scholar

Holland, T. & Powell, R. Activity–composition relations for phases in petrological calculations: an asymmetric multicomponent formulation. Contrib. Mineral. Petrol. 145, 492–501 (2003).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • White, R. W., Powell, R. & Clarke, G. L. The interpretation of reaction textures in Fe-rich metapelitic granulites of the Musgrave Block, central Australia: constraints from mineral equilibria calculations in the system K2O–FeO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O–TiO2–Fe2O3. J. Metamorph. Geol. 20, 41–55 (2002).Article CAS Google Scholar

White, R. W., Powell, R. & Clarke, G. L. The interpretation of reaction textures in Fe-rich metapelitic granulites of the Musgrave Block, central Australia: constraints from mineral equilibria calculations in the system K2O–FeO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O–TiO2–Fe2O3. J. Metamorph. Geol. 20, 41–55 (2002).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Loucks, R. R., Fiorentini, M. L. & Henríquez, G. J. New Magmatic oxybarometer using trace elements in zircon. J. Petrol. 61, egaa34 (2020).Article Google Scholar

Loucks, R. R., Fiorentini, M. L. & Henríquez, G. J. New Magmatic oxybarometer using trace elements in zircon. J. Petrol. 61, egaa34 (2020).

Article Google Scholar

  • Sobolev, A. V. et al. Deep hydrous mantle reservoir provides evidence for crustal recycling before 3.3 billion years ago. Nature 571, 555–559 (2019).Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

Sobolev, A. V. et al. Deep hydrous mantle reservoir provides evidence for crustal recycling before 3.3 billion years ago. Nature 571, 555–559 (2019).

Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar

  • Shaw, D. M. Trace element fractionation during anatexis. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 34, 237–243 (1970).Article CAS Google Scholar

Shaw, D. M. Trace element fractionation during anatexis. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 34, 237–243 (1970).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Bédard, J. H. A catalytic delamination-driven model for coupled genesis of Archaean crust and sub-continental lithospheric mantle. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 70, 1188–1214 (2006).Article Google Scholar

Bédard, J. H. A catalytic delamination-driven model for coupled genesis of Archaean crust and sub-continental lithospheric mantle. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 70, 1188–1214 (2006).

Article Google Scholar

  • Qian, Q. & Hermann, J. Partial melting of lower crust at 10–15 kbar: constraints on adakite and TTG formation. Contrib. Mineral. Petrol. 165, 1195–1224 (2013).Article CAS Google Scholar

Qian, Q. & Hermann, J. Partial melting of lower crust at 10–15 kbar: constraints on adakite and TTG formation. Contrib. Mineral. Petrol. 165, 1195–1224 (2013).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Xiong, X. et al. Partitioning of Nb and Ta between rutile and felsic melt and the fractionation of Nb/Ta during partial melting of hydrous metabasalt. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 75, 1673–1692 (2011).Article CAS Google Scholar

Xiong, X. et al. Partitioning of Nb and Ta between rutile and felsic melt and the fractionation of Nb/Ta during partial melting of hydrous metabasalt. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 75, 1673–1692 (2011).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Hulsbosch, N., Hertogen, J., Dewaele, S., André, L. & Muchez, P. Alkali metal and rare earth element evolution of rock-forming minerals from the Gatumba area pegmatites (Rwanda): quantitative assessment of crystal-melt fractionation in the regional zonation of pegmatite groups. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 132, 349–374 (2014).Article CAS Google Scholar

Hulsbosch, N., Hertogen, J., Dewaele, S., André, L. & Muchez, P. Alkali metal and rare earth element evolution of rock-forming minerals from the Gatumba area pegmatites (Rwanda): quantitative assessment of crystal-melt fractionation in the regional zonation of pegmatite groups. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 132, 349–374 (2014).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Icenhower, J. & London, D. An experimental study of element partitioning among biotite, muscovite, and coexisting peraluminous silicic melt at 200 MPa (H2O). Am. Mineral. 80, 1229–1251 (1995).Article CAS Google Scholar

Icenhower, J. & London, D. An experimental study of element partitioning among biotite, muscovite, and coexisting peraluminous silicic melt at 200 MPa (H2O). Am. Mineral. 80, 1229–1251 (1995).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Raimbault, L. & Burnol, L. The Richemont rhyolite dyke, Massif Central, France; a subvolcanic equivalent of rare-metal granites. Can. Mineral. 36, 265–282 (1998).CAS Google Scholar

Raimbault, L. & Burnol, L. The Richemont rhyolite dyke, Massif Central, France; a subvolcanic equivalent of rare-metal granites. Can. Mineral. 36, 265–282 (1998).

CAS Google Scholar

  • Xie, H. et al. Data for “Hadean mantle depletion and 3.95-Gyr subduction implied by North China rocks”. Zenodo https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22911249 (2026).
  • Wan, Y. S. et al. Early Neoarchean (~2.7 Ga) tectono-thermal events in the North China Craton: a synthesis. Precambrian Res. 247, 45–63 (2014).Article CAS Google Scholar

Wan, Y. S. et al. Early Neoarchean (~2.7 Ga) tectono-thermal events in the North China Craton: a synthesis. Precambrian Res. 247, 45–63 (2014).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Chu, H. et al. The geological significance of the rediscovered fuchsite quartzite with abundant Eoarchean detrital zircons in eastern Hebei Province [in Chinese with English abstract]. Chin. Sci. Bull. 61, 2299–2308 (2016). Google Scholar

Chu, H. et al. The geological significance of the rediscovered fuchsite quartzite with abundant Eoarchean detrital zircons in eastern Hebei Province [in Chinese with English abstract]. Chin. Sci. Bull. 61, 2299–2308 (2016).

Google Scholar

  • Wan, Y. S. et al. Discovery of early Eoarchean-Hadean zircons in eastern Hebei, North China Craton [in Chinese with English abstract]. Acta Geol. Sin. 95, 277–291 (2021). Google Scholar

Wan, Y. S. et al. Discovery of early Eoarchean-Hadean zircons in eastern Hebei, North China Craton [in Chinese with English abstract]. Acta Geol. Sin. 95, 277–291 (2021).

Google Scholar

  • Wan, Y. S. et al. Discovery of ~3.8 Ga TTG rocks in eastern Hebei, North China Craton [in Chinese with English abstract]. Acta Geol. Sin. 95, 1321–1333 (2021). Google Scholar

Wan, Y. S. et al. Discovery of ~3.8 Ga TTG rocks in eastern Hebei, North China Craton [in Chinese with English abstract]. Acta Geol. Sin. 95, 1321–1333 (2021).

Google Scholar

  • Ge, R. F. et al. A 4463 Ma apparent zircon age from the Jack Hills (Western Australia) resulting from ancient Pb mobilization. Geology 46, 303–306 https://doi.org/10.1130/g39894.1 (2018).Article CAS Google Scholar

Ge, R. F. et al. A 4463 Ma apparent zircon age from the Jack Hills (Western Australia) resulting from ancient Pb mobilization. Geology 46, 303–306 https://doi.org/10.1130/g39894.1 (2018).

Article CAS Google Scholar

  • Barker, F. in Trondhjemites, Dacites, and Related Rocks (ed. Barker, F.) 1–12 (Elsevier, 1979).
  • Stracke, A., Genske, F., Berndt, J. & Koornneef, J. M. Ubiquitous ultra-depleted domains in Earth’s mantle. Nat. Geosci. 12, 851–855 (2019).Article CAS Google Scholar

Stracke, A., Genske, F., Berndt, J. & Koornneef, J. M. Ubiquitous ultra-depleted domains in Earth’s mantle. Nat. Geosci. 12, 851–855 (2019).

Article CAS Google Scholar

Download references

The text above was extracted automatically from the source page and may miss images, tables or code blocks. The original is authoritative.

Published by Nature
This site only summarises and aggregates; copyright stays with the original author. Headlines and summaries follow the source — where they differ, the original wins.
Read the original ↗