Abstract: The Panzhihua-Xichang area is important rare earth metallogenetic belt in China, represented by the Maoniuping rare earth ore. The rare earths ores in Panzhihua-Xichang include magmatic-hydrothermal type, pegmatitic type, Quaternary placer type, volcanic type and ion-absorption type. The metallogenic mechanisms, such as geological background, mineralization characteristics and metallogenic conditions of the Maoniuping rare earth ore, were discussed and the ore-controlling/forming factors and ore-forming rules were investigated in this paper. Besides, the metallization model for magmatic-hydrothermal light rare earth ores was perfected, and the inherent genetic relationships and production characteristics of various types of rare earth ores have been identified to scientifically analyze the regional rare earth resources and delineates prospecting target, which could further reduce the prospecting scope.