Mineralpigment

Mineralpigment refers to pigments derived from minerals, typically inorganic compounds ground into fine powders for use as colorants in paints, coatings, ceramics, plastics, cosmetics, and printing inks. They are valued for stability, lightfastness, and chemical resistance, and for producing a broad range of hues from earthy ochres to vivid blues and greens.

Common mineral pigments are categorized as earth pigments (ochre, sienna, umber) and inorganic pigments (iron oxides, titanium dioxide, chromium oxide green, cobalt aluminate blue). Classical examples include ultramarine blue (originally from lapis lazuli, later synthetic) and cinnabar/red mercury sulfide, though the latter is now used under strict safety controls due to toxicity. Lead white and related basic lead pigments were widely used historically but are restricted today.

Production involves extracting mineral sources or synthesizing pigments from mineral precursors, followed by milling to powder and, in some cases, heat treatment or surface treatment to adjust hue and particle size. Properties such as opacity or transparency, tinting strength, dispersibility, lightfastness, and heat and chemical stability determine suitable applications.

Mineralpigments have a long history dating from prehistoric art to modern industry. They are chosen for durable color in artworks, ceramic glazes, architectural coatings, and colored polymers, with ongoing research into safer, more sustainable pigments and alternative inorganic colorants.

Safety and environmental considerations include toxicity risks associated with certain pigments (e.g., lead, cadmium, mercury compounds) and the ecological impact of mining. Proper handling, labeling, and regulatory compliance are standard in commercial use.