Our Luberon Red Ocher is from ocher deposits in the French quarries of Gargas and Rustrel, nestled in a 12-mile-long enclave in the heart of the Luberon Massif, the ocher country. Ocher is a symphony of colors ranging from pale yellow through the orange range to intense red. It has two major characteristics: it does not fade in daylight, and the color is highly concentrated.

Pigment Names
Common Names:	English: red ocher French: ocre rouge German: Ocker rot Italian: ocra rosso Russian: охра красная Spanish: ocre rojo

Origin and History of Red Ocher

Known since antiquity, ocher (okhra in Greek) occurs naturally as yellow ocher (goethite) or as red ocher (hematite). Ocher has been used as a pigment since prehistoric times and is perhaps the most widely used pigment for artists' paints.

Source of Our French Red Ocher

Red ocher is a natural earth containing clay tinted by iron oxide hydroxide. It is composed of the mineral goethite, along with clay, quartz, and traces of accessory minerals, including chalk, gypsum, and manganese carbonate. It is one of the many pigments known as natural earth and ocher pigments, which have been used since prehistory for their vibrant colors derived from mineral compositions.

Natural earth and ocher pigments are found on five continents, with their hues primarily originating from clay soils and sands. These pigments undergo a meticulous process: after extraction, they are washed and separated from soil components to isolate the minerals, then ground to a fine powder and packaged. Certain regions are known for specific pigments, such as Ochers from France, Umbers from Cyprus, and Red Earths from India, showcasing the geographical diversity of these natural colors.

Historically, yellow ocher was designated by the mineral name limonite. Limonite, however, is not a true mineral but a general term used to describe all forms of hydrated iron oxide minerals (α-FeOOH) that occur as natural earth. Limonite includes the minerals goethite, akaganeite, and lepidocrocite. The names of yellow iron oxide pigments can be confusing. The terms earth and ocher are appropriate when it is clear that the pigment comes from a natural source. Earth is a more general term, as ocher refers to a specific type of iron oxide deposit containing kaolin (clay) and quartz. To be considered an ocher, for example, the content of iron oxide must be at least 12%. Depending upon the content of hydrated iron oxide, the color of ocher varies from light yellow to orange-red. Like red iron oxides (hematite), they are found worldwide and have been used as pigments since prehistory. French ocher, historically one of the highest grades of ocher, contains approximately 20% iron oxide and is rich in silica.

This rich heritage of natural pigments continues to inform artistic and industrial applications, celebrating both the historical significance and the natural beauty of these earth-derived hues.

Direct from the earth, ocher is not naturally usable as a pigment and, therefore, needs to undergo several critical processes, such as:

• Extract ore from the quarries.
• Separate the ocher from the sand using water and centrifugal force.
• Calcine (roast) raw yellow ocher to obtain red ocher by heating it for 15 minutes at a temperature between 500° and 600° C. (932° and 1112° F.).
• Blend different ocher extracted from diverse veins to obtain the selected colors.
• Grind to 50 microns and pack.

Properties and Benefits of Natural Earth and Ocher Pigments

Natural earth and ocher pigments have been valued for their unique properties and artistic benefits since prehistoric times. Found across the globe, these pigments derive their rich hues primarily from the mineral composition within clay soils and sands. Let's explore the attributes that make them stand out.

Key Properties

1. Mineral Composition:

   • The color spectrum of these pigments varies according to their mineral composition. Extracted from diverse geographical locations, each pigment offers a unique hue characteristic to its region.
   • After extraction, the raw materials are washed, stripped of soil, finely ground, and then packaged for use.

2. Semi-Transparency:

   • A standout property is their semi-transparent quality, which has been prized by artists throughout history for producing depth and subtlety in artwork.

3. Versatility:

   • Natural earth and ocher pigments can be used across different mediums, from traditional paintings to decorative coatings, maintaining their integrity and color stability. Their versatility ensures they can be integrated into various artistic and architectural applications.

4. Durability:

   • Known for their permanent nature, these pigments do not fade or alter when mixed into mediums, ensuring longevity in the finished works.

Benefits

• Soft, Natural Tones:

  • Rather than dominating with opacity, these pigments enhance surfaces with gentle, earthy undertones conducive to natural beauty.

• Cultural and Artistic Significance:

  • Historically, ochers have played a significant role in art and architecture. For instance, in France, they have been used to create frescoes that capitalize on their full-color potential.

• Regional Variations for Artistic Diversity:

  • Different types of ocher and natural earth—such as French ocher, Cypriot umber, and Indian red earth—offer a palette that reflects the diverse mineralogy of their regions, providing artists with a rich array of choices.

In summary, the use of natural earth and ocher pigments is defined by their aesthetic appeal and functional flexibility. These pigments remain an enduring choice for those seeking to achieve subtlety, historical authenticity, and natural beauty in their artistic endeavors.

Permanence and Compatibility

Ocher is among the most permanent colors in the artist's palette. It is compatible with all other pigments and can be used with good results in all mediums.

Oil Absorption and Grinding

Red ocher absorbs a moderate amount of oil. The oil absorption ratio is 20–25 parts by weight of linseed oil to 100 parts by weight of pigment. If the measurement were in grams, it would require 20-25 grams of linseed oil to grind 100 grams of pigment into a stiff paste. It forms an average drying oil paint and makes a good paint film.

Toxicity and Handling Precautions

Ocher is not considered toxic, but care should be taken in handling the dry powder pigment to avoid inhaling the dust. It's crucial to exercise caution and ensure that your workspace is well-ventilated to minimize the risk of inhalation.

When handling any dry pigment, including Red Ocher, avoid creating airborne dust. It's advisable to use protective equipment, such as masks and gloves, to further reduce exposure risks.

Our pigments are not intended for use in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, tattoo inks, or food products. This limitation ensures safety and compliance with usage guidelines. Always adhere to the recommended applications to avoid unintended consequences.

Please note that the color you see on your screen may not perfectly match the actual pigment due to differences in digital displays. We do not guarantee the accuracy of colors based on these images, so it is wise to test a small sample before proceeding with any large-scale project.

Rublev Colours Pigment: Luberon Red Ocher Pigment

Pigment Information
Color:	Red
Colour Index:	Pigment Red 102 (77491)
Chemical Name:	Iron Oxide
Chemical Formula:	α-Fe2O3
ASTM Lightfastness Rating
Acrylic:	I
Oil:	I
Watercolor:	I
Properties
Density:	5.27
Hardness:	5.0–6.0
Refractive Index:	2.78–3.01

Exploring the Versatility of Red Ocher: Uses Across Various Mediums

Red Ocher, a naturally occurring pigment, has been celebrated for its versatility in both traditional and contemporary art practices. Here’s how you can incorporate Red Ocher into a variety of mediums:

Paints and Fine Art Applications

• Acrylics: Ideal for rich, earthy tones and textures.
• Oil Paints: Offers moderately high oil absorption, creating deep, warm hues.
• Watercolor: Produces subtle, muted tones perfect for landscapes and portraits.
• Egg Tempera: Historically significant for its vibrant color and fast-drying qualities.
• Milk Paints and Flour Paints: Adds authenticity to vintage and rustic finishes.
• Encaustic: Elevates the pigmented wax technique, enhancing its rich, tactile qualities.

Specialty and Decorative Uses

• Fresco and Distemper: Integral in historical fresco work, delivering long-lasting color fastness.
• Clay Paints and Plasters: Suitable for natural building materials, adding earthy aesthetics.
• Iconography: Traditional religious artworks heavily rely on Red Ocher for its spiritual symbolism.
• Pastels: Ideal for sketching with a soft, yet vibrant, mark.

Crafts and Functional Arts

• Calligraphy Ink: Used to create nuanced, vintage-style scripts.
• Soap Making: Adds color and acts as a gentle exfoliant in natural soaps.
• Candle Overdipping: A technique used to add antique color finishes to handmade candles.

Industrial and Fabrication Processes

• Cement and Lime Coatings: Provides subtle coloring without overpowering the material; however, it offers limited tinting strength.
• Plastic and Epoxy Resins: Ideal for coloring resin projects, such as jewelry or home decor.
• Polymer Clay: Infuses earthy tones into modeling and sculpting clay.

Surface Treatments

• Glazes and Stains: Enhances ceramics and wood with a subtle yet impactful coloration.
• Paste Wax and Shellac: Provides a signature aged appearance to furniture and wood items.

Textile and Miscellaneous Uses

• Fabric Painting: Can be used effectively in fabric paints, although it’s not recommended as a dye.
• Solvents and Alcohols: Useful in complex mixtures where color permanence and stability are desired.

Red Ocher remains a treasured pigment for artists and artisans, offering a spectrum of possibilities from historical art forms to modern craft projects. Its rich, timeless appeal makes it a staple across creative disciplines.

How to Use Red Ocher Pigment Recommended Tools for Mixing Red Ocher

When it comes to mixing Red Ocher, having the right tools can make all the difference in achieving the perfect consistency and color. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Palette and Palette Knife

• Ideal for Small Quantities: If you’re working with smaller amounts, a palette paired with a palette knife is perfect. This tool allows you to blend the Red Ocher smoothly and evenly.

2. Mortar and Pestle

• Traditional Choice: For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, a mortar and pestle is excellent for grinding the pigment, ensuring its particles are fine and uniform.

3. Glass Slab and Muller

• For Thorough Blending: To achieve a superior level of refinement, using a glass slab with a muller is highly effective. This tool helps mix and grind the pigment thoroughly, especially vital for pigments that require extensive blending.

Tips

Select your tools based on the amount of Red Ocher required and the project's specific needs. Whether you're aiming for precision or working with larger volumes, having the right equipment is key to achieving the best results.

How to Mix Red Ocher with Dry Binders Like Plasters and Cements

When incorporating Red Ocher into dry binders such as plasters and cements, follow these steps for optimal results.

1. Mixing Directly with Dry Ingredients: Begin by adding the Red Ocher directly into the dry ingredients. Ensure the pigment is evenly distributed before you proceed to the mixing stage with any liquid components.

2. Using a Pigment Dispersion (if needed): If you notice issues like the micro-bursting of particles during the mixing process, consider forming a color syrup. To do this:

   • Combine the Red Ocher with a small amount of water to make a smooth, consistent paste.
   • Gradually add this paste to the dry mix, ensuring even color dispersion.

3. Blend Thoroughly: Regardless of the method chosen, thorough blending is crucial. Mix until the color is evenly distributed throughout the binder, avoiding streaks or clumps.

By following these guidelines, you can achieve a uniform color and enhance the aesthetic qualities of your plaster or cement projects.

Packaging Options for Red Ocher

When it comes to packaging for Red Ocher, several options are available to cater to different needs:

• 100g: Comes in a 6 oz jar made from recyclable plastic, ensuring eco-friendliness.

• 500g and Larger: These quantities are provided in a robust double plastic bag, offering extra durability and protection.

• Bulk Orders (Over 1 Kilo): For orders exceeding one kilogram, the product is packaged in bulk to optimize shipping and storage efficiency.

Understanding Color Variance Across Devices

When browsing pigment colors like Red Ocher on your digital devices, you might notice variations in how the color appears. This can be attributed to several factors related to device technology.

Device Display Differences

• Computer Monitors: Different manufacturers, such as Dell, HP, and Apple, use varied display technologies, resulting in color discrepancies. For instance, an LED monitor might render colors more vividly than an older LCD screen.

• Tablets and Smartphones: Tablets from brands such as Samsung or iPad models might display colors with different levels of saturation and contrast. Smartphones can also vary, with OLED screens presenting colors differently than LCDs.

Impact of Screen Settings

• Brightness and Contrast: Adjusting these settings can make the Red Ocher appear either more muted or intensely vibrant.

• Color Profiles: Devices come with default color profiles, which can be adjusted or differ from one device to another. These profiles can affect the accuracy of how the Red Ocher hue is displayed.

Environmental Factors

• Lighting Conditions: Viewing angles and ambient lighting can affect perceptions of color, causing the pigment to appear slightly different under various lighting conditions.

Given these factors, when viewing Red Ocher on a screen, expect minor variations in the shade compared to what you might see in person. For precise color matching, physical samples or swatches are always a reliable choice.