Cinnabar (Nikitovka) Pigment: A Natural Red Wonder
Cinnabar, a dense red mineral, is the principal ore of the metal mercury, usually described as an intense reddish orange or sometimes as a dark reddish purple. Our warm cinnabar is prepared from the mineral in ore deposits found near Nikitovka in the Doneckaia region of Ukraine. It exhibits a beautiful masstone color of strong red with a tendency toward reddish orange.
Properties and Characteristics
Cinnabar is an inorganic, natural pigment with a color index of Pigment Red 106 (77766). It has a chemical formula of HgS and a density of 8.1. The hardness of cinnabar is 2.0-2.5, and its refractive index ranges from 2.905-3.256. This natural pigment is known for its excellent lightfastness and durability.
History and Origin
Cinnabar has been used as a pigment for centuries, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient China in the third millennium B.C. The Romans also used cinnabar, mining it for its mercury content. Today, cinnabar is still mined in various parts of the world, including Spain, Slovenia, and Ukraine.
Uses and Applications
Cinnabar is a versatile pigment that can be used in a variety of artistic projects, including painting, drawing, and sculpting. Its vibrant red color makes it perfect for creating bold, eye-catching pieces. Cinnabar can also be used in combination with other pigments to create unique and interesting shades.
Quality and Brand
Our cinnabar pigment is sourced from Rublev Colours, a reputable brand known for its high-quality art supplies. We only offer the best products to our customers, ensuring that you get the finest ingredients for your artistic projects.