Lithocaps
are potentially voluminous zones of advanced argillic and associated argillic
alteration located above the subvolcanic intrusive environment. They constitute
exploration objectives for epithermal and porphyry-type deposits.
High-sulphidation epithermal deposits may be sought within lithocaps, whereas
low-sulphidation deposits may exist on their edges. Porphyry Cu-Au/Au deposits may be accessible
beneath lithocaps if systems are telescoped sufficiently. Oxidation of the
basal, pyritic parts of lithocaps may promote supergene sulphide enrichment
under appropriate tectonic and climatic conditions.