Geodynamic Specifics in the Formation of Ultra-High-K Ignimbrites in Armenia

The northwestern part of the Sevan–Shirak structural formation zone of the Lesser Caucasus contains ultra-high-K siliceous ignimbrites dating back to the Late Eocene–start of Early Oligocene (?), which associate with high-K volcanics of the calc-alkaline and shoshonite series. During Eocene–Oligocene time the Sevan–Shirak zone was an ensialic island arc with a Hercynian metamorphic basement. The formation of high-K and especially ultra-high-K rocks was due to the effects of mantle fluids on the continental crust.