Iridescence vs. Opalescent
-
Iridescence
Iridescence (also known as goniochromism) is the phenomenon of certain surfaces that appear to gradually change colour as the angle of view or the angle of illumination changes. Examples of iridescence include soap bubbles, butterfly wings and seashells, as well as certain minerals. It is often created by structural coloration (microstructures that interfere with light).
Pearlescence is a related effect where some or all of the reflected light is white, where iridescent effects produce only other colours. The term pearlescent is used to describe certain paint finishes, usually in the automotive industry, which actually produce iridescent effects.
Iridescence (noun)
The condition or state of being iridescent; exhibition of colors like those of the rainbow; a prismatic play of color.
Iridescence (noun)
Any shimmer of glittering and changeable colors.
Opalescent (adjective)
Exhibiting a milky iridescence like that of an opal.
Opalescent (adjective)
showing many small points of shifting colour against a pale or dark ground
"an opalescent sky"
Iridescence (noun)
Exhibition of colors like those of the rainbow, especially a surface reflection which changes color with the angle at which the object is viewed; the quality or state of being iridescent; a prismatic play of color; as, the iridescence of mother-of-pearl. It is due to interference of light waves reflected from the front and back surfaces of a thin layer transpatrent or semitransparent film.
Opalescent (adjective)
Reflecting a milky or pearly light from the interior; having an opaline play of colors.
Iridescence (noun)
the visual property of something having a milky brightness
Opalescent (adjective)
having a play of lustrous rainbow-like colors;
"an iridescent oil slick"
"nacreous (or pearlescent) clouds looking like mother-of-pearl"
"a milky opalescent (or opaline) luster"
Iridescence Illustrations
Opalescent Illustrations
