What is the definition of luster for minerals?
lustre, in mineralogy, the appearance of a mineral surface in terms of its light-reflective qualities. Lustre depends upon a mineral’s refractive power, diaphaneity (degree of transparency), and structure.
What is a lustre definition?
(Entry 1 of 3) 1 : a glow of reflected light : sheen specifically : the appearance of the surface of a mineral dependent upon its reflecting qualities the luster of polished metal. 2a : a glow of light from within : luminosity the luster of the stars. b : an inner beauty : radiance.
What is lustre examples?
Minerals possessing metallic luster are opaque and very reflective, possessing a high absorptive index.Examples of minerals which exhibit metallic luster are native copper, gold, and silver, galena, pyrite etc. The luster of a mineral which does not quite possess a metallic luster is termed submetallic.
What is waxy luster?
Waxy – A waxy luster describes a mineral that appears as if it were coated with a layer wax. Dull – This luster defines minerals with poor reflective qualities, much like unglazed porcelain. Most minerals with a dull luster have a rough or porous surface.