A unique geological texture primarily found in komatiites, an ultramafic volcanic rock. It consists of large, bladed or dendritic crystals that interlock in a pattern resembling Australian spinifex grass. The texture forms during the extremely rapid cooling of highly fluid, magnesium-rich lava.
Heard on the job
We hit a massive komatiite flow with classic spinifex texture right below the chert horizon.
Insider tip
Finding spinifex texture is a major indicator for geologists exploring for nickel sulfide deposits, as they often host rich nickel ores at their base.