Contact metamorphism of limestone at Open Bay, Quadra Island

Abstract

On the east coast of Quadra Island, B.C. exposes metasedimentary country rock of Quatsino and/or Parsons Bay Formations intruded by the magmatic front of the Coast Plutonic Complex (CPC). The research conducted in this project aimed to determine the pressure and temperature conditions involved in the metamorphism of these country rocks in proximity to suspected CPC intrusions. This question was addressed through analysis of petrography and geochemistry to determine mineral assemblages that predictably correlate to metamorphic facies. Through field observations and background research, it was hypothesized that minerals of amphibolite and hornblende-hornfels facies would be identified in samples nearest the plutons. This poster includes geology of Quadra Island, methods of research, geochemical and petrographic analysis, and discussion of results and recommendations for further research.