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Product Description
Ultramarine is a vivid blue pigment that has been used in art for centuries. It's made from a mineral called lapis lazuli, which was ground into a fine powder to create the pigment. Ultramarine pigment was highly prized during the Renaissance and was often reserved for the most important artworks due to its expense. The name "ultramarine" comes from the Latin word "ultramarinus," meaning "beyond the sea," referring to the fact that the mineral was sourced from distant lands, particularly Afghanistan.
Today, synthetic versions of ultramarine pigment are also available, offering a more affordable and consistent alternative to the natural mineral. These synthetic versions are chemically similar to the natural pigment and are widely used in various applications, including painting, printing, plastics, and cosmetics.
Ultramarine pigment is known for its deep blue hue, excellent lightfastness (resistance to fading), and versatility in mixing with other colors. It remains a popular choice among artists for creating vibrant blue tones in paintings and other artistic works.