Integrated Geophysical and Geochemical Surveys for Assessing Mineral Potential in the Xintianling Tungsten Deposit, Nanling Range, South China

The Xintianling deposit, a skarn-type tungsten mineralization system in the Nanling Range of South China, presents significant challenges in identifying new high-grade orebodies. This study employs an integrated approach, combining the opposing-coil transient electromagnetic (OCTEM) method with geochemical exploration, to delineate and evaluate concealed mineralization within and beyond the known mining area. High-precision geophysical surveys revealed low-resistivity anomalies along the contact zone between Jurassic granite and the Carboniferous Shidengzi Formation limestone. Integration of these anomalies with geochemical element associations (W-Sn-Fe-Bi and Cu-Mo-As) highlights signatures indicative of tungsten mineralization. The results demonstrate that skarn-type orebodies in the mining area are primarily controlled by the axial planes of N–S-striking anticlines and associated secondary folds, with thick, large orebodies preferentially forming in depressions along the granite roof. Comprehensive analysis of the geophysical and geochemical data identified 15 low-resistivity anomalies in the Shanglongshan–Huanggualing target area, of which 14 are interpreted as potential skarn-type mineralized bodies, thereby delineating three potential exploration targets. This integrated methodology establishes a robust scientific foundation for deep and peripheral prospecting in the mining area and provides methodological guidance for exploring similar skarn-type tungsten deposits.