The Etendeka Formation volcanics of north-western Namibia form part of the Karoo Igneous Province of southern Africa and consist of a series of basalts interbedded with quartz latites and minor volumes of latite. This thesis examines various aspects of the geology and geochemistry of the quartz latites, in particular the volcanological and petrogenetic origin of these rocks . This study has involved the geological mapping of ca. 5000 km² of the southern Etendeka region and the documentation of the field and petrographic characteristics of the quartz latites. 183 whole rock quartz latite samples have been analysed for 32 elements by x-ray fluorescence spectrometry and 17 of these samples were selected for detailed mineral analyses by electron microprobe.

The Simpson Mountains have long been of economic interest and have renewed interest in their potential value. Field mapping of the project area redefined structural relationships between stratigraphic units. Geometric and kinematic analysis of structures in the Simpson Mountains show the range is deformed by the three most recent tectonic events: the Sevier Orogeny, the Laramide Orogeny, and Basin and Range Extension. Laramide structures define the range with a significant E-W normal fault and an E-W thrust fault, which are both likely related to Eocene-age igneous intrusions. Principal component analysis (PCA) of regional quartzite X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) data resulted in distinctive populations between the Eureka Quartzite and the Mutual and Prospect Mountain Quartzites. The PCA was paired with petrographic analysis of regional quartzites where samples were diagnostically classified to help validate the PCA results. XRF analysis of volcanic rocks show volcanic arc origin. 40Ar/39Ar dating of the volcanic rocks associated with the intrusions yield new ages of 34.09±0.10 to 37.05±0.06 Ma and 19.11±0.02 to 19.18±0.03. Lithostratigraphy of the map area was validated by identification of fossil samples. The Eocene intrusions are likely sources of mineralization in the range along older Sevier structures.