What term refers to the different hues in minerals due to variations in composition?

The term that accurately describes the different hues in minerals due to variations in composition is "chromaticity." Chromaticity refers to the quality of a color, which embraces its hue and saturation, and is particularly relevant in discussing how slight changes in a mineral's chemical composition can lead to observable changes in color. Such variability is often due to the presence of different elements or impurities that can alter how light interacts with the mineral, affecting its perceived color.

This concept is essential in mineralogy and geology, as it allows professionals to better identify and classify minerals based on their color characteristics, which are influenced by their composition. Other terms related to color in minerals, while relevant in certain contexts, do not specifically apply to the scientific description of color variations caused by compositional differences.