Anthraquinone Blue is a blue pigment that has a high tinting strength and excellent lightfastness, meaning it resists fading over time when exposed to light. It is also transparent, which makes it ideal for watercolor painting, as it allows for layering and mixing with other colors to create a range of hues and shades.

The pigment is made by synthesizing anthraquinone, which is a type of organic compound that is commonly used in the production of dyes and pigments. Anthraquinone Blue is created by adding sulfuric acid to anthraquinone and then reacting it with sodium hydroxide. The resulting pigment is then purified and processed into a fine powder that can be used in the production of watercolor paint.

One of the benefits of Anthraquinone Blue is its versatility. It can be mixed with other colors to create a range of hues, from pale pastels to deep, rich tones. It is also a popular choice for creating a range of natural colors, such as skies, water, and foliage.

When using Anthraquinone Blue in watercolor painting, it is important to note that it has a tendency to granulate, which means that it settles into the texture of the paper, creating a textured effect. This can be an advantage or disadvantage depending on the desired effect. It is also a staining pigment, which means that it can be difficult to lift off the paper once it has dried.

Lightfastness 6/6

Lightfastness rating:

1 Limited

2-3 Poor

4-5 Good

6 Excellent