perlada

Perlada is a feminine adjective found in several Romance languages, notably Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese, meaning pearl-like or pearly. It derives from the word for pearl (perla) and is used to describe something that resembles or imitates the luster and iridescence of a pearl. In describing surfaces, finishes, or appearances, perlada conveys a nacreous quality that evokes a soft, multi-toned sheen.

In practical use, perlada appears in art, design, cosmetics, and manufacturing to denote pearlescent or mother-of-pearl effects. Examples include pearlescent coatings on ceramics, glass, plastics, and metals, as well as cosmetic pigments and textiles that reflect light with a subtle shimmer. The term is often encountered alongside related descriptors such as nacarado (nacreous) and perlado/perlada finishes, which indicate varying degrees of iridescence and shimmer.

Perlada is generally used as a descriptive term rather than a specific proper noun. When encountered as a brand name, place name, or other title, it is context-dependent and should be understood as a label rather than a definition. The concept it conveys—pearl-like luster—has parallels in other languages through terms like perla, perlado, and nacarado, which describe similar finishes or qualities.

See also: pearl, perla, perlado, nacarado, pearlescent.