flecks

Flecks are small, irregular marks, spots, or particles that appear on or within a material. The word is used across many fields to describe tiny inclusions or color variations that contrast with the surrounding surface or matrix.

Textiles and materials: Flecks in fabrics are small colored particles or slubs embedded in yarns, creating a mottled or heathered look. Donegal tweed is a classic example, featuring multicolored wool flecks that create depth.

Geology and minerals: In rocks and minerals, flecks refer to tiny inclusions or color specks that interrupt uniform texture. In polished sections, metal or mineral flecks may be visible as irregular specks.

Food and beverages: Flecks denote small pieces of herbs, spices, or ingredients—such as vanilla flecks in ice cream or pepper flecks in sauces—that contribute flavor and visual texture.

Cosmetics, art, and design: In cosmetics, pigments such as mica create gold or pearl flecks that add shimmer. In paints and papers, flecks can be decorative or affect surface reflectivity.

Characteristics and terminology: Flecks vary in size from submillimeter to several millimeters, and in shape from round to irregular. They can be naturally occurring or intentionally added, and are often described with context-specific terms like specks, slubs, or inclusions.