Ternary alloys usually solidify by the nucleation of multiple phases at different temperatures. Depending on composition and the resulting balance of chemical free energy of each phase relative to one another, phases may nucleate and grow or dissolve as the temperature of the alloy is changed. In this particular alloy composition a special situation occurs in which 3 phases react simultaneously with the liquid at a single temperature. This microstructure evolves by small amount of a primary phase which nucleates and grows. This primary phase has a highly anisotropic interfacial energy with the liquid from which it is forming thus resulting in a unique high aspect ratio or sharp morphology. Stemming from the surface of the primary phase 4 phases react in cooperation at a single temperature to form a eutectic microstructure. The unique symmetry of this ternary eutectic microstructure originates from the constraints and nucleation sites provided by the primary phase and the coupled growth of the 3 phases on the interface between the liquid and the primary phase. Nucleation on the primary phase occurs with specific crystallographic orientations thus initiating symmetry. The symmetry is carried out as the 3 crystals grow cooperatively in these directions as heat is drawn away from this exothermic reaction.