Luster
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Definition
The quality and intensity of light reflected from the surface of a gemstone, described by its character (e.g., metallic, adamantine, vitreous, resinous, silky, pearly, waxy).
Detailed Explanation
Luster depends primarily on refractive index and surface quality. Diamond's adamantine (brilliant, diamond-like) luster results from its very high RI of 2.42. Most transparent colored stones display vitreous (glassy) luster, while metals and some metallic minerals show metallic luster. Silk-like luster (silky) is seen in fibrous materials like tiger's eye and satin spar gypsum. Pearls and moonstone exhibit a distinctive pearly or adularescent luster. Luster is assessed on a clean, well-polished surface and is one of the first properties noted when examining a specimen.