We investigate the cobalt—manganese (Co—Mn) deposits from the bottom of Sinian (Ediacaran) Doushantuo Formation in the Shiqian region, eastern Guizhou, to clarify the source, occurrence of Co and its metallogenic process.Methods: In order to systematically investigate the petrographic and mineralogical features and geochemical compositions of the Co—Mn ores, the authors have combined with the SEM, major and trace element results of the rock (ore) samples. Results:The MnO and Co contents in Co—Mn ores range from 3.57% to 34.3% (average 11.7%) and 131×10-6 to 537×10-6 (average 346×10-6), respectively, with abnormal enrichment of multi- metallic elements (e. g., Ba, Ni, Cu, Zn). Original banded structures within ore- bed and altered Mn carbonate enclosed by Fe—Mn oxides, indicates the Co—Mn claystone originated from the supergene weathering of original Mn carbonates. The Mn- bearing minerals predominantly comprise Mn oxides (e.g., Hollandite, and Manganite etc.) and Co peaks are observable within Mn oxides, coupled a strong positive correlation between Mn and Co (R2= 0.80) indicates that Mn oxides are the principal carriers of Co. The elemental ratios, discriminant diagrams and rare earth element (REE) differentiation suggests Co—Mn mineralization originates from the hydrothermal activity. The positive Ce anomalies and the abnormal enrichment of trace metal elements (e.g., Ba, Co, Ni, Zn) of Co—Mn ores, coupled with the widespread development of coeval stromatolite dolostone, suggesting a diagenetic origin of the original Mn- bearing carbonates.Conclusions: The formation of Mn- bearing carbonates at the bottom of the Doushantuo Formation is closely linked to the late Neoproterozoic major geological events. The formation of rift basins caused by the breakup of Rodinia supercontinent and associated magmatic—hydrothermal activities may have provided mineralization space and sources for Co and Mn. Significant oceanic redox perturbations during the end of Marinoan glaciation triggered the precipitation of Mn oxides and subsequent transformed into Mn- bearing carbonate minerals via diagenesis. These Mn- bearing carbonates were ultimately formed Co—Mn claystones during the later surface weathering process.