Transparency
Definition
Transparency refers to the degree to which light can pass through a mineral.
Terminology:
Opaque - no light can pass through the mineral;
Translucent - light can pass through the mineral but is diffused so that images cannot be seen clearly;
Transparent - light can pass through the mineral and images can be seen clearly.
Variations of transparency (opaque hornblende, translucent biotite and transparent calcite)