(via Gemmology Queensland, Vol.4, No.9, September 200 / From the Precious Lapis Lazuli gemstone)
Lapis lazuli pigment was once only attainable in small quantities. Recent advancements in refining technology has made it possible to produce a pure natural lapis pigment (ultramarine blue) of consistent high quality in commercial quantities.
The pigment originates from the Chilean lapis lazuli deposit owned by Las Flores de los andes S.A and located high in the Chilean Andes in the province of Coquimbo. It is produced in Chile by Lapis Pigments S.A with technical advice from European scientists.
The pure royal blue pigment, also known as natural ultramarine blue, is extracted from the gemstone. Lapis lazuli has a history of more than five thousand years as jewelry, ornamental art and as a pigment. The great masters of the Renaissance period immortalized the blue ultramarine pigment in their famous works. The value of the pigment then exceeded the price of gold.
The natural lapis lazuli pigment differentiates itself from this synthetic counterpart by the vibrancy of the blue that it produces. The natural pigment particles, large in size, have an irregular and angular shape. With their multiple surfaces this natural pigment reacts to light like a finely faceted diamond, thereby producing an ever-changing display of rich vibrant blues. This creates a three-dimensional, gem-like effect that is not attainable with the very small, round and uniformly shaped particles of the synthetic ultramarine blue pigment.
The natural lapis lazuli is suitable for use in paints, lacquers, inks and cosmetics. It is successfully being used in the coating of metallic and other surfaces.
No comments:
Post a Comment