This dataset includes silicon isotopic compositions of δ30Si and δ29Si of 26 argillaceous sediment samples (including 20 bulk samples and 6 clay-fraction samples) from 13 major rivers located in seven regions surrounding the South China Sea. The samples were collected during 2004-2009. Si isotope measurements were performed on a Neptune MC-ICP-MS at the State Key Laboratory of Continental Dynamics, Northwest University (China). Each sample was analyzed three to four times during each analytical session. The precision and accuracy of measurements were referenced to the results of standard and replicated samples. The repeated measurements of BHVO-2 and AGV-2 gave average δ30Si values of −0.26 ± 0.07‰ (2SD, n = 9) and −0.13 ± 0.05‰ (2SD, n = 3), respectively.

Further funding:* UNESCO/IOC Sub-Commission for the Western Pacific (WESTPAC), Award: FluSed