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  • Mineral Luster: Understanding Non-Metallic Sheens - Definitions & Descriptions
    Here are some terms used to describe non-metallic luster in minerals:

    General terms:

    * Dull: Lacking any shine or reflectivity.

    * Earthy: A rough, unpolished appearance, like soil.

    * Resinous: A waxy, gum-like appearance.

    * Silky: A soft, shimmering appearance, like silk.

    * Vitreous: A glassy, shiny appearance.

    More specific terms:

    * Adamantine: A very brilliant, almost diamond-like luster.

    * Pearly: A soft, iridescent luster, like pearls.

    * Greasy: An oily, greasy appearance.

    * Submetallic: A dull, metallic-like appearance.

    Other descriptions:

    * Waxy: Similar to resinous, but with a slightly more translucent appearance.

    * Porcelain-like: A smooth, white, opaque appearance.

    * Chalky: A soft, powdery appearance.

    Note: Some minerals can have multiple luster characteristics. For example, a mineral might have a dull appearance overall, but show a silky luster when fractured.

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