Coarse-grained phaneritic rocks have a texture in which the individual mineral crystals are large enough to be visible to the naked eye. The crystals are typically interlocking, and the rock may have a sugary or sparkling appearance. Some examples of coarse-grained phaneritic rocks include granite, diorite, and gabbro.

Fine-grained aphaneritic rocks have a texture in which the individual mineral crystals are too small to be visible to the naked eye. The rock may appear smooth or glassy, and it may have a dull or matte finish. Some examples of fine-grained aphaneritic rocks include basalt, andesite, and rhyolite.

The textural difference between coarse-grained phaneritic and fine-grained aphaneritic rocks is primarily due to the rate of cooling of the magma from which the rocks formed. Coarse-grained phaneritic rocks form when magma cools slowly, allowing the minerals to grow large enough to be visible to the naked eye. Fine-grained aphaneritic rocks form when magma cools quickly, preventing the minerals from growing large.