Sparkles

Sparkles are small, bright points of light that appear when light interacts with surfaces that reflect or refract it. The effect is produced by many tiny facets or particles that reflect light toward the viewer at different angles. Sparkles are commonly described as dazzling, twinkling, or shimmering.

Physically, sparkles arise from specular reflections off microfacets, diffraction from fine structures, or scattering by small particles. The appearance of a sparkle depends on the size, shape, and orientation of the reflecting features, the light source, and the observer’s angle. Movement can intensify the effect.

Natural examples include sunlight on snow or ice crystals, dew on grass, or glistening droplets on surfaces. In consumer products, sparkles are created with glitter, sequins, rhinestones, metallic foils, or pearlescent pigments. In jewelry and gemstones, the terms brilliance and fire describe similar sparkling effects produced by light interacting with cut facets.

Because sparkles in consumer products can involve microplastics, some jurisdictions regulate glitter use or encourage biodegradable alternatives. In design and photography, sparkle is used to convey glamour, celebration, or magic, while in nature the effect often signals reflective or refractive surfaces rather than an intentional phenomenon.