Iridization is a term commonly used in the world of art, design, and photography to describe the colorful and shimmering effect created by the refraction of light on a surface. While the word iridization is often used, there are several synonyms that can be used to describe this effect, including lustrous, opalescent, shimmering, prismatic, and rainbow-like. These words can be used to convey the same meaning as iridization and add variety and color to descriptions and discussions related to the appearance of surfaces, from fabrics and metals to natural materials like shells and feathers.