Iridescence, however, occurs when an object's physical structure causes light waves to combine with one another, a phenomenon known as interference. In constructive interference, light waves combine so that the crests and troughs line up to reinforce each other, increasing the vibrancy of the reflected color.

How does iridescent paint work?

Iridescence may be seen commonly in soap bubbles and butterflywings. In paints it is caused by similar shiny smooth particles as pearlescent effects, only the particles have more than one reflective surface, and so the color of the paint changes depending on the angle of viewing.

What is iridescent paint used for?

All Iridescent colors will tend to lighten regular paint colors in mixtures, with Iridescent Pearl having the maximum effect in this regard. This can be used as an alternative method of tinting a color, where you also create a very different surface effect.