Pigments
Select a color below to view a list of common pigments.
For each pigment, we offer: the pros and cons of using that pigment, based on Virgil’s experience and observations; technical links; and a graphical representation of the pigment’s qualities. Please refer the notes at the bottom of this page for a description of the terminology used.
- Pigment Name: this could be the official name in the Color Index (third edition 1997), the name given by the original manufactuer, the actual chemical name, or the traditional historic name.
- Color Index Name Code: The first two letters describe the general pigment color and the number is the individual pigment identifier. For example, PG-17 is the color index name code for Chromium Oxide Green.
- Opacity — Transparency Rating: a general reference; many pigments exist in both transparent/opaque versions or can be manipulated by paint manufacturers). Values = Opaque, Semi-Opaque, Semi-Transparent, Transparent.
- Lightfastness Rating (by the ATSM) — Values = I, Excellent, II, Good, III, Poor, IV, Fugitive/Very Poor.
- Toxicity: The hazardous properties associated with the pigment based on the literature; it is assumed professional artists will use at least ordinary care when handling all paints or pigments. Possible values: Low hazard, but do not handle carelessly; Possible Hazard if improperly or carelessly handled; Hazardous, use appropriate precautions for handling toxic substances; Extremely Toxic, only attempt working with this pigment (especially the dry form) in laboratory conditions and with proper safety equipment.
- Drying Rates: Problems can occur when faster-drying paints are applied over slower-drying paints. Possible values: fast-drying, average-drying, slow-drying, very slow-drying.