It is characteristic of gems with higher refractive indices (e.g., diamond and demantoid garnet). п»їДЄdamantine: This is the brightest, most reflective non-metallic luster. Sphalerite and cuprite often exhibit this type of luster. Nearly-opaque gems that reflect well fall into this category. Submetallic: This is used to describe minerals having the look of polished metal dulled by weathering or wear.

Hematite, pyrite and cuprite are examples of minerals that may exhibit this degree of luster. Metallic:В This is a very high luster that has the appearance of polished metal. Luster is generally divided into two major categories: metallic and non-metallic.ДЄdjectives commonly used to describe luster include: If much of the light is absorbed b the gem, resulting in a dull reflection, it is said to have low luster.

If nearly all the light falling upon a gem's surface is reflected, resulting in a very bright appearance, it is said to have high luster. Luster is the quality and quantity of light reflected from a gem's surface and is a function of refractive index and surface perfection (degree of polish). The following clears up the confusion, allowing you to understand exactly what you are seeing when you gaze upon your gemstone jewelry. These frequently used terms describe the visual appearance of the interaction between light and a gem are often confused and misused, sometimes even by experienced industry professionals.

Fire and brilliance