I personally prefer pearl over metallics, poly, flakes...
Metallics and poly chips "reflect" light since they are metallic chips, whereas pearl chips are transparent and give paint more depth since you are actually seeing through them.
It's really what you like best. If you like a lot of sparkle (it sounds like you would since you mention miniflakes), you can basically use any color you want (with any type of flake), then spray a coat of clear over the flames with some miniflake in it. This will give you the best sprakle. Don't go overboard on the miniflake. Usually less is best with this type of flake.
Once you spray the flames with a coat of clear with the flake in it, remove all paper, then do a few coats of clear over the complete panel and flames without the flake.
Most paints these days contain at least some pearl in them even if it is called a metallic or pearl.
