A banner with shader spheres in 3D using different IOR values to achieve photorealistic rendering.

IOR 3D Database

When creating realistic materials for your 3D renders, it is important to set correct values for your IOR (Index of Refraction).
You can achieve a more physically accurate representation of a material’s surface by inputting the IOR value manually. 

Most 3D rendering application will allow you to use these values when creating materials. Whether you are 3D modelling, texturing and rendering in Autodesk 3Ds Max, Autodesk Maya, Blender 3D, Maxon Cinema 4D, Chaos Corona, Chaos Vray, Arnold, Redshift or Octane, you can create photorealistic materials that behave naturally under any lighting conditions.

What is IOR? 
The Index of Refraction (IOR) defines the level of refraction for the transmitted light travelling through a material. An IOR of 1.0 such as in the case of Air, causes no distortion or dispersion of objects behind the material. Light travels through the medium without significant interference. An IOR of 1.33 such as in the case of Water, causes significant distortion. The higher the IOR the more refraction happens to the transmitted light. 

What is the Abbe number? 
The Abbe number is the value of a material’s dispersion. It indicates the variation of refractive index versus its wavelength.
Low Abbe numbers produce significant wavelength dispersions, creating prismatic effects.
While high Abbe numbers produce low dispersions allowing the light-waves to transmit with less interference. 

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Material
Euclase
IOR (min)
1.652
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Euclase is a rare beryllium aluminum hydroxide mineral with the chemical formula BeAlSiO4(OH). It belongs to the beryl group of minerals and has a striking blue to greenish-blue color, transparency, and vitreous luster.
Material
Eye, Aqueous Humor
IOR (min)
1.330
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Liquid
Description
Aqueous humor is a clear, watery fluid that fills the anterior chamber of the eye, located between the cornea and the lens. It also contributes to the optical properties of the eye by refracting light as it passes through the cornea and lens.
Material
Eye, Cornea
IOR (min)
1.380
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Natural compound
Description
The cornea is the transparent, dome-shaped front surface of the eye that covers the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber. It is composed of specialized layers of tissue that help focus light onto the retina, enabling vision.
Material
Eye, Lens
IOR (min)
1.410
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Natural compound
Description
The lens is a transparent, biconvex structure located behind the iris and pupil of the eye. It plays a crucial role in focusing light onto the retina to form clear images. The lens is composed of specialized cells called lens fibers, which are arranged in concentric layers around the lens nucleus. These fibers are filled with transparent proteins called crystallins, which give the lens its optical properties and flexibility.
Material
Eye, Vitreous Humor
IOR (min)
1.340
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Natural compound
Description
Vitreous humor, also known as vitreous body or simply vitreous, is a clear, gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina in the posterior segment of the eye. It is composed mainly of water, along with collagen fibers, hyaluronic acid, and various electrolytes.
Material
Feldspar, Adventurine
IOR (min)
1.532
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Feldspar, Adventurine is a variety of feldspar that contains microscopic inclusions of reflective minerals such as hematite or mica, which give it a shimmering or aventurescent effect.
Material
Feldspar, Albite
IOR (min)
1.525
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Feldspar, Albite is a common mineral in the feldspar group, composed of sodium aluminum silicate. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust and is found in various igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Albite is usually white, gray, or colorless, and it often forms as tabular or prismatic crystals.
Material
Feldspar, Amazonite
IOR (min)
1.525
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Feldspar, Amazonite is a variety of microcline, which is a type of potassium feldspar. It is known for its distinctive green to blue-green coloration, which is caused by trace amounts of lead and water within the feldspar structure.
Material
Feldspar, Labrodorite
IOR (min)
1.565
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Feldspar, Labradorite is a variety of plagioclase feldspar, specifically within the albite-anorthite solid solution series. It is known for its striking iridescence, also called labradorescence, which is caused by the diffraction of light within microscopic lamellae or layers in the mineral structure.
Material
Feldspar, Microcline
IOR (min)
1.525
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Feldspar, Microcline is a potassium-rich variety of feldspar and a member of the alkali feldspar group. It is commonly found in igneous rocks such as granite and pegmatite, as well as in metamorphic rocks such as schist and gneiss. Microcline typically occurs as prismatic crystals with a characteristic blocky or tabular habit and a vitreous to pearly luster. It is often white, gray, or pink in color, although it can also exhibit green or blue hues due to trace amounts of impurities such as iron or chromium.
Material
Feldspar, Oligoclase
IOR (min)
1.539
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
eldspar, Oligoclase is a member of the plagioclase feldspar group, which includes a series of solid solution minerals ranging from pure sodium aluminum silicate (albite) to pure calcium aluminum silicate (anorthite). Oligoclase is intermediate in composition between albite and anorthite and is commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks such as granite, syenite, and gneiss. It typically occurs as tabular or prismatic crystals with a vitreous to pearly luster and is commonly white, gray, or pink in color, although it can also exhibit green or blue hues due to trace amounts of impurities such as iron or chromium.
Material
Feldspar, Orthoclase
IOR (min)
1.525
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Feldspar, Orthoclase is a potassium-rich variety of feldspar and a member of the alkali feldspar group. It is one of the most common minerals in the Earth's crust and is found in a wide range of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Orthoclase typically occurs as blocky or tabular crystals with a characteristic pink, white, or gray coloration and a vitreous to pearly luster.
Material
Flint Glass (impure)
IOR (min)
1.523
IOR (max)
1.925
Abbe value
52
Type
Glass
Description
Flint glass is a type of glass that contains lead oxide, making it denser and more refractive than ordinary glass. It is known for its high index of refraction, which gives it excellent optical properties for lenses and prisms.
Material
Flint Glass (pure)
IOR (min)
1.600
IOR (max)
1.620
Abbe value
55
Type
Glass
Description
Flint glass is a type of glass that contains lead oxide, making it denser and more refractive than ordinary glass. It is known for its high index of refraction, which gives it excellent optical properties for lenses and prisms.
Material
Flourite
IOR (min)
1.433
IOR (max)
Abbe value
94.99
Type
Mineral
Description
Fluorite, also known as fluorspar, is a mineral composed of calcium fluoride (CaF2). It is commonly found in hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, and as a gangue mineral in ore deposits. Fluorite typically occurs as cubic, octahedral, or dodecahedral crystals with a wide range of colors, including purple, blue, green, yellow, and colorless. Its crystal structure often exhibits strong fluorescence under ultraviolet light, a phenomenon from which its name is derived.
Material
Formica
IOR (min)
1.470
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Chemical compound
Description
Formica is a brand of laminate material composed of layers of paper or fabric impregnated with resin and bonded together under heat and pressure. It is commonly used as a surfacing material for countertops, cabinets, furniture, and wall panels due to its durability, resistance to moisture, and ease of maintenance. Formica is available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures, making it a versatile choice for interior design applications.
Material
Fused Quartz
IOR (min)
1.460
IOR (max)
Abbe value
67.8
Type
Glass
Description
Fused Quartz, also known as fused silica, is a high-purity form of glass made from silica (SiO2) through a process of melting and solidification. It has excellent optical properties, including high transparency to ultraviolet, visible, and infrared wavelengths, as well as low thermal expansion and high resistance to chemical and thermal shock.
Material
Fused Quartz
IOR (min)
1.458
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Glass
Description
Fused Quartz, also known as fused silica, is a high-purity form of glass made from silica (SiO2) through the process of melting and solidification.
Material
Gallium(III) Arsenide
IOR (min)
3.927
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Chemical compound
Description
Gallium(III) Arsenide (GaAs) is a compound semiconductor material composed of gallium and arsenic. It has a zincblende crystal structure and is commonly used in the fabrication of electronic and optoelectronic devices such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), laser diodes, solar cells, and field-effect transistors (FETs).
Material
Gallium(III) Phosphide
IOR (min)
3.500
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Chemical compound
Description
Gallium(III) Phosphide (GaP) is a compound semiconductor material composed of gallium and phosphorus. It has an zincblende crystal structure and is commonly used in the fabrication of electronic and optoelectronic devices such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), laser diodes, photodetectors, and solar cells.
Material
Garnet, Almandine
IOR (min)
1.760
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Almandine is a common variety of garnet, which is a group of silicate minerals with similar crystal structures but varying compositions. Almandine garnet is typically deep red to reddish-brown in color and is often found in metamorphic rocks such as schist, gneiss, and granite.
Material
Garnet, Almandite
IOR (min)
1.790
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Almandite is a variety of garnet, which is a group of silicate minerals with similar crystal structures but varying compositions. Almandite garnet is typically deep red to reddish-brown in color and is often found in metamorphic rocks such as schist, gneiss, and granite.
Material
Garnet, Andradite
IOR (min)
1.820
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Andradite is a variety of garnet, which is a group of silicate minerals with similar crystal structures but varying compositions. Andradite garnet is typically green to brownish-green in color and is often found in metamorphic rocks such as schist, gneiss, and marble, as well as in hydrothermal veins and skarn deposits.
Material
Garnet, Demantiod
IOR (min)
1.880
IOR (max)
1.900
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Demantoid is a variety of garnet, which is a group of silicate minerals with similar crystal structures but varying compositions. Demantoid garnet is known for its vivid green color and exceptional dispersion, which gives it a fiery appearance similar to diamond (hence the name "demantoid," which means "diamond-like").
Material
Garnet, Grossular
IOR (min)
1.720
IOR (max)
1.800
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Grossular is a variety of garnet, which is a group of silicate minerals with similar crystal structures but varying compositions. Grossular garnet is typically yellow, green, brown, or colorless and is often found in metamorphic rocks such as schist, gneiss, and marble, as well as in hydrothermal veins and skarn deposits.
Material
Garnet, Hessonite
IOR (min)
1.745
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Hessonite is a variety of garnet, which is a group of silicate minerals with similar crystal structures but varying compositions. Hessonite garnet is typically orange to brownish-orange in color and is often found in metamorphic rocks such as schist, gneiss, and marble, as well as in alluvial deposits.
Material
Garnet, Mandarin
IOR (min)
1.790
IOR (max)
1.800
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Mandarin garnet is a variety of garnet, which is a group of silicate minerals with similar crystal structures but varying compositions. Mandarin garnet is known for its vibrant orange to orange-red color, reminiscent of the hue of mandarin oranges, hence its name.
Material
Garnet, Pyrope
IOR (min)
1.730
IOR (max)
1.760
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Pyrope is a variety of garnet, which is a group of silicate minerals with similar crystal structures but varying compositions. Pyrope garnet is typically deep red to purplish-red in color and is often found in metamorphic rocks such as schist, gneiss, and eclogite, as well as in alluvial deposits.
Material
Garnet, Rhodolite
IOR (min)
1.740
IOR (max)
1.770
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Rhodolite is a variety of garnet, which is a group of silicate minerals with similar crystal structures but varying compositions. Rhodolite garnet is typically pink to purplish-red in color and is often found in metamorphic rocks such as schist, gneiss, and granite, as well as in alluvial deposits.
Material
Garnet, Spessartite
IOR (min)
1.810
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Spessartite is a variety of garnet, which is a group of silicate minerals with similar crystal structures but varying compositions. Spessartite garnet is typically orange to reddish-orange in color and is often found in metamorphic rocks such as schist, gneiss, and pegmatites, as well as in alluvial deposits.
Material
Garnet, Tsavorite
IOR (min)
1.739
IOR (max)
1.744
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Tsavorite is a variety of garnet, which is a group of silicate minerals with similar crystal structures but varying compositions. Tsavorite garnet is typically green to bluish-green in color and is often found in metamorphic rocks such as schist, gneiss, and graphite schist, as well as in alluvial deposits.
Material
Garnet, Uvarovite
IOR (min)
1.740
IOR (max)
1.870
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Uvarovite is a rare variety of garnet, which is a group of silicate minerals with similar crystal structures but varying compositions. Uvarovite garnet is typically bright green in color and is often found in metamorphic rocks such as serpentine, as well as in skarn deposits associated with ultramafic rocks.
Material
Gaylussite
IOR (min)
1.517
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Gaylussite is a hydrated carbonate mineral composed of sodium, calcium, carbon, oxygen, and water. It is often found in evaporite deposits in arid regions, such as saline lakebeds and alkaline playas. Gaylussite typically occurs as transparent to translucent colorless or white crystals, though it may also exhibit shades of yellow, pink, or green due to impurities.
Material
Glass
IOR (min)
1.500
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Glass
Description
Glass is an amorphous solid material that is typically transparent or translucent and has widespread use in various applications, including windows, containers, lenses, and optical fibers. It is primarily composed of silica (silicon dioxide), along with various additives to modify its properties, such as soda ash (sodium carbonate) and limestone (calcium carbonate).
Material
Glass, Albite
IOR (min)
1.489
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Glass
Description
Glass, Albite, also known as Albite glass, is a type of glass that contains albite, a mineral belonging to the feldspar group. Albite is a common component of many igneous rocks and is often used as a flux in glassmaking to reduce the melting temperature of silica-based glasses.
Material
Glass, Arsenic Trisulfide
IOR (min)
2.040
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Glass
Description
Glass, Arsenic Trisulfide, also known as arsenic sulfide glass or arsenic glass, is a type of glass composed primarily of arsenic trisulfide (As2S3) molecules. It is a chalcogenide glass that exhibits unique optical and electrical properties, including high refractive index, infrared transparency, and photosensitivity.
Material
Glass, Crown
IOR (min)
1.520
IOR (max)
Abbe value
59
Type
Glass
Description
Crown glass is a type of optical glass that is commonly used in lenses, prisms, and other optical components. It is characterized by its relatively low dispersion and high refractive index, making it suitable for correcting chromatic aberrations in optical systems.
Material
Glass, Crown, Zinc
IOR (min)
1.517
IOR (max)
Abbe value
55
Type
Glass
Description
Crown glass with zinc additives, also known as zinc crown glass, is a type of optical glass that contains zinc oxide (ZnO) as one of its components. Zinc crown glass is characterized by its relatively low dispersion and high refractive index, similar to traditional crown glass.
Material
Glass, Flint, 29% lead
IOR (min)
1.569
IOR (max)
Abbe value
50
Type
Glass
Description
Flint glass with lead additives, commonly known as leaded flint glass, is a type of optical glass that contains a significant percentage of lead oxide (PbO) as one of its components. Leaded flint glass is characterized by its high refractive index and dispersion, making it suitable for applications where high dispersion properties are desired, such as in the design of high-quality optical lenses.
Material
Glass, Flint, 55% lead
IOR (min)
1.669
IOR (max)
Abbe value
52
Type
Glass
Description
Flint glass with lead additives, commonly known as leaded flint glass, is a type of optical glass that contains a significant percentage of lead oxide (PbO) as one of its components. Leaded flint glass is characterized by its high refractive index and dispersion, making it suitable for applications where high dispersion properties are desired, such as in the design of high-quality optical lenses.
Material
Glass, Flint, 71% lead
IOR (min)
1.805
IOR (max)
Abbe value
54
Type
Glass
Description
Flint glass with lead additives, commonly known as leaded flint glass, is a type of optical glass that contains a significant percentage of lead oxide (PbO) as one of its components. Leaded flint glass is characterized by its high refractive index and dispersion, making it suitable for applications where high dispersion properties are desired, such as in the design of high-quality optical lenses.
Material
Glass, Flint, Dense
IOR (min)
1.660
IOR (max)
Abbe value
55
Type
Glass
Description
Flint glass with lead additives, commonly known as leaded flint glass, is a type of optical glass that contains a significant percentage of lead oxide (PbO) as one of its components. Leaded flint glass is characterized by its high refractive index and dispersion, making it suitable for applications where high dispersion properties are desired, such as in the design of high-quality optical lenses.
Material
Glass, Fused Silica
IOR (min)
1.459
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Glass
Description
Fused silica, also known as fused quartz, is a type of glass composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2) in its non-crystalline state. It is produced by melting pure quartz crystals at high temperatures and then cooling them rapidly to form a solid glass. Fused silica is characterized by its exceptional purity, high thermal stability, low thermal expansion coefficient, and excellent optical properties.
Material
Glass, Pyrex
IOR (min)
1.474
IOR (max)
Abbe value
66
Type
Glass
Description
Pyrex is a brand name for a type of borosilicate glass developed by Corning Inc. Borosilicate glass is characterized by its high thermal resistance and low coefficient of thermal expansion, making it suitable for applications where heat resistance and durability are important.
Material
Glycerine
IOR (min)
1.473
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Liquid
Description
Glycerine, also known as glycerol or glycerin, is a colorless, odorless, and viscous liquid that is widely used in various applications, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food products, and industrial processes.
Material
Glycerol
IOR (min)
1.473
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Liquid
Description
Glycerol, also known as glycerin or glycerine, is a colorless, odorless, and viscous liquid that is widely used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and personal care products.
Material
Gold
IOR (min)
0.470
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Metal
Description
Gold is a precious metal with a distinctive yellow color and high luster. It is one of the least reactive chemical elements and is highly valued for its rarity, beauty, and various industrial applications.
Material
Gypsium
IOR (min)
1.519
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Gypsum is a soft sulfate mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O). Gypsum occurs naturally as translucent to opaque crystals or masses and is commonly found in sedimentary rock formations.
Material
Hambergite
IOR (min)
1.559
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Hambergite is a rare beryllium borate mineral with the chemical formula Be2(BO3)(OH, F). It is typically found in pegmatite formations and is often associated with other beryllium minerals such as beryl and phenakite. Hambergite crystals are usually colorless to white and may exhibit a vitreous luster.
Material
Hauyne
IOR (min)
1.490
IOR (max)
1.505
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Hauyne is a rare tectosilicate mineral with the chemical formula (Na,Ca)4-8Al6Si6(O,S)24(SO4,Cl)1-2. It belongs to the sodalite group of minerals and is often found in volcanic rocks such as phonolites and trachytes. Hauyne crystals are typically blue in color due to the presence of sulfur in their chemical composition, although they may also occur in shades of yellow, green, or red.
Material
Hauynite
IOR (min)
1.502
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Hauynite is a rare tectosilicate mineral that belongs to the sodalite group. It has a chemical composition similar to hauyne, with the formula (Na,Ca)4-8Al6Si6(O,S)24(SO4,Cl)1-2. Hauynite is often found in volcanic rocks, especially those containing alkaline minerals. It commonly occurs as small, blue to violet crystals, and it may also exhibit fluorescence under ultraviolet light.
Material
Heaviest Flint Glass
IOR (min)
1.890
IOR (max)
Abbe value
54
Type
Glass
Description
Heaviest Flint Glass, also known as high-index flint glass or dense flint glass, is a type of optical glass characterized by its exceptionally high refractive index. It is commonly used in the production of achromatic lenses, prisms, and other optical components where strong dispersion properties are desired.
Material
Heavy Flint Glass
IOR (min)
1.650
IOR (max)
Abbe value
55
Type
Glass
Description
Heavy Flint Glass, also known as high-index flint glass or dense flint glass, is a type of optical glass characterized by its high refractive index. It is commonly used in the production of lenses, prisms, and other optical components where strong dispersion properties are desired.
Material
Helium
IOR (min)
1.000
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Gas
Description
Helium is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless noble gas. It is the second lightest element and the least dense gas at standard conditions.
Material
Hematite
IOR (min)
2.940
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Hematite is a common iron oxide mineral (Fe2O3) with a metallic to submetallic luster and a deep reddish-brown to black color. It is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth and is found in sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks.
Material
Hemimorphite
IOR (min)
1.614
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Hemimorphite is a zinc silicate mineral (Zn4Si2O7(OH)2·H2O) that is commonly found in the oxidized zone of zinc-bearing ore deposits. It typically forms as botryoidal or stalactitic masses with a pearly to vitreous luster. Hemimorphite may occur in various colors, including white, blue, green, yellow, or brown, depending on the presence of impurities.
Material
Hiddenite
IOR (min)
1.655
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Hiddenite is a green variety of spodumene, which is a lithium aluminum silicate mineral (LiAl(SiO3)2). Hiddenite has a vibrant green color, which is caused by traces of chromium and vanadium within the crystal structure.
Material
Honey, 13% water
IOR (min)
1.504
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Liquid
Description
Honey is a sweet, viscous liquid produced by bees from the nectar of flowers. It has been used by humans for thousands of years as a food source, natural sweetener, and for its purported health benefits. The refractive index of honey can vary depending on factors such as its water content, sugar composition, and presence of impurities.
Material
Honey, 17% water
IOR (min)
1.494
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Liquid
Description
Honey is a sweet, viscous liquid produced by bees from the nectar of flowers. It has been used by humans for thousands of years as a food source, natural sweetener, and for its purported health benefits. The refractive index of honey can vary depending on factors such as its water content, sugar composition, and presence of impurities.
Material
Honey, 21% water
IOR (min)
1.484
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Liquid
Description
Honey is a sweet, viscous liquid produced by bees from the nectar of flowers. It has been used by humans for thousands of years as a food source, natural sweetener, and for its purported health benefits. The refractive index of honey can vary depending on factors such as its water content, sugar composition, and presence of impurities.
Material
Howlite
IOR (min)
1.586
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Howlite is a borate mineral that is commonly found in sedimentary rock formations. It is usually white or gray with dark gray to black veins, resembling the appearance of marble or turquoise.
Material
Hydrogen (gas)
IOR (min)
1.000
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Gas
Description
Hydrogen is the lightest and most abundant chemical element in the universe. In its gaseous state, hydrogen consists of diatomic molecules (H2) and is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It is highly flammable and burns in air with a pale blue flame.
Material
Hydrogen (liquid)
IOR (min)
1.097
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Liquid
Description
Liquid hydrogen is the liquid form of the chemical element hydrogen. It is obtained by cooling hydrogen gas to extremely low temperatures, below its boiling point of -252.87°C (20.28 K). In its liquid state, hydrogen is colorless and odorless.
Material
Hypersthene
IOR (min)
1.670
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Hypersthene is a common rock-forming mineral belonging to the group of orthorhombic pyroxenes. It is typically found in igneous and metamorphic rocks such as gabbro, norite, and basalt. Hypersthene usually occurs in dark-colored, opaque to translucent crystals with a characteristic bronze-like sheen known as "schiller." Its color ranges from brown to greenish-gray or black.
Material
Ice
IOR (min)
1.309
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Natural compound
Description
Ice is the solid form of water, occurring naturally in the Earth's polar regions as well as in colder climates. It is formed when water molecules crystallize into a hexagonal lattice structure. Ice is translucent, with a slightly blue tint due to absorption of red light.
Material
Idocrase
IOR (min)
1.713
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Idocrase, also known as vesuvianite, is a calcium aluminum silicate mineral found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Idocrase crystals can exhibit various colors, including green, brown, yellow, red, or blue, depending on impurities and crystal structure. It often occurs in granular or prismatic crystal forms and is used as a gemstone when transparent and appropriately colored.
Material
Iodine Crystal
IOR (min)
3.340
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Natural compound
Description
Iodine crystal refers to solid iodine in its crystalline form. Iodine is a chemical element with the symbol "I" and atomic number 53. It is a shiny, blue-black solid at room temperature and pressure, and it sublimes directly into a violet gas with a characteristic odor.
Material
Iolite
IOR (min)
1.522
IOR (max)
1.578
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Iolite, also known as cordierite, is a magnesium iron aluminum cyclosilicate mineral. It is typically blue to violet in color, though it can also be found in shades of yellow, brown, or gray.
Material
Iron
IOR (min)
2.950
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Metal
Description
Iron is a chemical element with the symbol "Fe" and atomic number 26. It is one of the most abundant elements on Earth and has a wide range of industrial applications due to its strength, conductivity, and magnetic properties. In its pure form, iron has a metallic luster and silvery-gray color.
Material
Ivory
IOR (min)
1.540
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Natural compound
Description
Ivory refers to the hard, white material derived from the tusks and teeth of animals, particularly elephants. It has a distinctive off-white color and a smooth, polished surface when carved or worked. Due to its organic composition, ivory may exhibit variations in color and texture depending on factors such as age, source, and treatment.
Material
Jade, Jadeite
IOR (min)
1.640
IOR (max)
1.667
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Jadeite is one of the two minerals commonly referred to as jade, the other being nephrite. It is a pyroxene mineral composed of sodium and aluminum-rich silicate. Jadeite has a vivid green color and is considered one of the most precious gemstones in the world.
Material
Jade, Nephrite 
IOR (min)
1.600
IOR (max)
1.641
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Nephrite is one of the two minerals commonly referred to as jade, the other being jadeite. It is a form of tremolite-actinolite series of minerals, composed of calcium, magnesium, and iron-rich amphibole silicate. Nephrite is known for its toughness, durability, and characteristic creamy white to green colors, though it can also occur in shades of brown, black, gray, or yellow.
Material
Jadeite
IOR (min)
1.665
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Jadeite is a pyroxene mineral composed mainly of sodium and aluminum-rich silicate. It is one of the two minerals commonly referred to as jade, the other being nephrite. Jadeite has vibrant green color, though it can also occur in other colors such as white, pink, lavender, and brown.
Material
Jasper
IOR (min)
1.540
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline form of quartz. It is typically found in various shades of red, brown, yellow, or green, often with unique patterns and banding caused by mineral impurities and other factors.
Material
Jet
IOR (min)
1.660
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Natural compound
Description
Jet is a type of lignite coal that has been compressed and fossilized over millions of years. It is typically black or dark brown in color.
Material
Kornerupine
IOR (min)
1.665
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Kornerupine is a rare mineral found in metamorphic rocks, typically occurring in shades of green, brown, or yellow. It is composed of aluminum, magnesium, and silicon, with traces of other elements.
Material
Kunzite
IOR (min)
1.660
IOR (max)
1.676
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Kunzite is a pink to lilac-colored gemstone variety of the mineral spodumene. Kunzite has a delicate color and vitreous luster, which can range from pale pink to intense violet, depending on the presence of trace elements such as manganese.
Material
Kyanite
IOR (min)
1.715
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Kyanite is a typically blue-colored mineral that is often found in metamorphic rocks. It is composed of aluminum silicate and is valued as a gemstone for its attractive color and unique crystal formations. Kyanite is known for its distinct bladed or columnar crystal habit, which can exhibit strong pleochroism, meaning it can appear different colors when viewed from different angles.
Material
Labradorite
IOR (min)
1.560
IOR (max)
1.572
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Labradorite is a feldspar mineral known for its striking iridescence, known as labradorescence. It is usually gray, brown, or black in its base color, but when light strikes the surface of labradorite, it displays vibrant flashes of color, including blue, green, yellow, and orange.
Material
Lapis Lazuli
IOR (min)
1.500
IOR (max)
1.550
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Lapis Lazuli is a deep blue metamorphic rock that has been prized for its intense color and durability for thousands of years. It is composed primarily of the mineral lazurite along with calcite, sodalite, and pyrite.
Material
Lazulite
IOR (min)
1.615
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Lazulite is a rare phosphate mineral that has an intense blue color and attractive crystal formations.
Material
Lead
IOR (min)
2.010
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Metal
Description
Lead is a heavy metal with a bluish-gray color that has been known and used by humans for thousands of years. It is highly dense, soft, and malleable, making it useful for various applications, including construction, batteries, radiation shielding, and ammunition.
Material
Lead Nitrate
IOR (min)
1.782
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Chemical compound
Description
Lead Nitrate is a chemical compound with the formula Pb(NO3)2. It is a highly water-soluble lead salt that is used in various industrial processes, including the production of other lead compounds, pyrotechnics, and as a mordant in textile dyeing.
Material
Leucite
IOR (min)
1.509
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Leucite is a mineral that is commonly found in volcanic rocks and is often used as a flux in ceramics and glassmaking. It is a member of the feldspathoid group of minerals and is composed of aluminum, potassium, and silicon. Leucite typically forms as small, colorless to white crystals with a vitreous luster.
Material
Liquid Carbon Dioxide
IOR (min)
1.200
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Liquid
Description
Liquid Carbon Dioxide is the liquid form of carbon dioxide gas (CO2) under high pressure or low temperature conditions. It is commonly used in various industrial applications, such as refrigeration, food processing, and as a solvent in chemical reactions. Liquid Carbon Dioxide is colorless and odorless and can exist in a supercritical state under certain conditions, where it exhibits properties of both liquids and gases.
Material
Liquid Water (20deg ˚C)
IOR (min)
1.333
IOR (max)
Abbe value
55.74
Type
Liquid
Description
Liquid Water is the most common form of water under ambient conditions, typically found in lakes, rivers, and oceans, as well as in various industrial and domestic applications. At 20°C (68°F), liquid water is in its liquid state and has a density of approximately 1 gram per cubic centimeter. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, and it is essential for life and many industrial processes.
Material
Lucite
IOR (min)
1.495
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Natural compound
Description
Lucite is a brand name for a type of transparent acrylic resin, also known as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). It is commonly used as a substitute for glass due to its optical clarity, lightweight, and impact resistance.
Material
Magnesite
IOR (min)
1.515
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Magnesite is a mineral composed primarily of magnesium carbonate (MgCO3). It is usually found in metamorphic rocks and is often associated with other magnesium-rich minerals such as dolomite and serpentine.
Material
Malachite
IOR (min)
1.655
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Malachite is a green copper carbonate hydroxide mineral that is commonly found in copper ore deposits. It has a vibrant green color and swirling patterns.
Material
Meerschaum
IOR (min)
1.530
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Meerschaum, also known as sepiolite, is a soft white mineral that is often used for carving pipes and decorative objects.
Material
Mercury (liquid)
IOR (min)
1.620
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Liquid
Description
Liquid Mercury is a heavy, silvery metal that is the only metal that is liquid at standard room temperature and pressure. Liquid Mercury is highly toxic and must be handled with extreme care. It has a distinctive appearance and behavior, with a high surface tension that causes it to form droplets rather than spreading out like most liquids.
Material
Methanol
IOR (min)
1.329
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Liquid
Description
Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol or wood alcohol, is a colorless, volatile liquid with a mild, sweet odor. It is the simplest alcohol and is used primarily as a solvent, fuel, and antifreeze agent.
Material
Milk
IOR (min)
1.350
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Liquid
Description
Milk is a white, opaque liquid produced by the mammary glands of mammals, primarily for nourishing their young. It is a complex mixture of water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
Material
Moissanite
IOR (min)
2.650
IOR (max)
2.690
Abbe value
Type
Chemical compound
Description
Moissanite is a rare mineral with the chemical formula SiC (silicon carbide). Moissanite has brilliance, fire, and hardness, which are comparable to those of diamonds.
Material
Moldavite
IOR (min)
1.500
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Glass
Description
Moldavite is a type of natural glass formed from the intense heat and pressure generated by the impact of meteorites or asteroids with the Earth's surface. Moldavite has a unique green color, transparency, and intricate surface features, which are the result of its rapid cooling and solidification upon impact.
Material
Moonstone
IOR (min)
1.518
IOR (max)
1.526
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Moonstone is a type of feldspar mineral known for its distinctive adularescence—a phenomenon where light reflects off thin layers of internal structures, producing a glowing appearance that seems to move across the surface when the stone is viewed from different angles. This effect is often described as resembling moonlight, hence the name "moonstone." Moonstone is typically translucent to opaque and comes in a variety of colors, including white, gray, peach, and blue.
Material
Moonstone, Adularia
IOR (min)
1.525
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Moonstone is a type of feldspar mineral known for its distinctive adularescence—a phenomenon where light reflects off thin layers of internal structures, producing a glowing appearance that seems to move across the surface when the stone is viewed from different angles. This effect is often described as resembling moonlight, hence the name "moonstone." Moonstone is typically translucent to opaque and comes in a variety of colors, including white, gray, peach, and blue.
Material
Moonstone, Albite
IOR (min)
1.535
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Moonstone is a type of feldspar mineral known for its distinctive adularescence—a phenomenon where light reflects off thin layers of internal structures, producing a glowing appearance that seems to move across the surface when the stone is viewed from different angles. This effect is often described as resembling moonlight, hence the name "moonstone." Moonstone is typically translucent to opaque and comes in a variety of colors, including white, gray, peach, and blue.
Material
Morganite
IOR (min)
1.585
IOR (max)
1.594
Abbe value
Type
Mineral
Description
Morganite is a variety of the mineral beryl, which also includes gemstones such as emerald and aquamarine. It has a delicate pink to peach color, which is caused by trace amounts of manganese within the crystal structure.
Material
Mylar
IOR (min)
1.650
IOR (max)
Abbe value
Type
Chemical compound
Description
Mylar is a brand name for a type of polyester film that is known for its strength, clarity, and flexibility. It is commonly used in a wide range of applications, including packaging, insulation, electronics, and graphics. Mylar is transparent and has a high tensile strength, making it suitable for applications where durability and optical clarity are important.