A classification of igneous rock characterized by a coarse-grained texture where individual mineral crystals are clearly visible without magnification. This texture forms when magma cools slowly deep underground, allowing time for large crystals to grow. Geologists use this term to distinguish intrusive rocks like granite or gabbro from rapidly cooled, fine-grained volcanic rocks.
Heard on the job
The core sample from the lower intrusion is a solid phanerite, mostly quartz and feldspar with visible biotite flakes.
Do not mix it up with
- Aphanite: Phanerite has visible crystals, while aphanite has crystals too small to see without magnification.