Mercury in Geological Systems

Presented data are based on results of study, which were started in Institute of Geology of Ore Deposits, Petrography, Mineralogy and Geochemistry of the RAS and continue more than 40 years. Regional and local regularities was shown related to mercury concentrations in natural deposits of different type: ore (except cinnabar) and non-ore (including hydrocarbons, coal and oil shales) deposits, products of volcanic and hydrothermal activity. Reasons of high Hg concentration appearance were discussed for different geological systems in connection with processes of mantle degasing through deep fault zones. New type of ore-mercury belts was proposed, based on finding of mercury-bearing ore and oil-gas deposits. Evaluations of mercury concentration scales and environmental conclusions were produced.