Optical Property · Reviewed definition

Luster

The character of light reflected from a material’s surface.[1]

Plain English

What it means

Luster describes surface reflection using terms such as vitreous or adamantine.

Why it matters

It contributes to description and identification.

What it does not tell you

Polish, surface condition, and observation can affect apparent luster.

Evidence

References

  1. 1
    Analysis of Gemstones at GIA Laboratories

    Gemological Institute of America

    Open source