Cape Jasmine Lake

Description

Cape Jasmine Blue Lake is a rare, natural lake pigment derived from the fruit of Gardenia jasminoides (Cape Jasmine). The pigment is created by extracting the deep blue coloring compound known as genipin, which develops when the fruit ferments. This pigment has been traditionally used in East Asian textile dyeing, food coloring, and manuscript illumination.

Cape Jasmine Blue Lake produces a rich blue hue with a soft, natural appearance, making it ideal for artists seeking organic, botanical-based colors. It blends well with other natural pigments and provides unique, vibrant blues that are difficult to achieve with mineral-based alternatives. The pigment is known for its beautiful transparency and luminous quality in watercolor, tempera, and certain oil-based mediums.

History

Ancient and Traditional Use (Pre-10th Century CE): Used in China and Japan as a dye for fabrics and inks, with applications in manuscript illumination.

Medieval to Early Modern Period (10th–18th Century CE): Incorporated into painting and calligraphy, especially in East Asian art, where natural botanical pigments were preferred for their subtle and harmonious colors.

Modern Applications (19th Century – Present): Reemerging among natural dye enthusiasts, conservationists, and historical artists for its botanical origins and soft blue hues.

Health and Safety

Precautions:  
Keep out of reach of children and pets.  
Do not consume.  
Not for cosmetic or food usage.  
Do not spray apply.  
For further health information, contact a poison control center.  
Use care when handling dry pigments and avoid dust formation.  
Use particular caution with fibrous, fine, or toxic pigments.  
Do not eat, drink, or smoke near dry pigments.  
Avoid breathing in pigment dust and use a NIOSH-certified dust respirator with sufficient rating for dry pigment.  
Wash hands immediately after use or handling.  
If dust is likely, always wear protective clothing to keep out of eyes, lungs, and off skin, as well as keep the area ventilated.  
This product may contain chemicals known by the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or reproductive harm.  
Warnings and bottle information are abbreviated.

Pigment Information

Pigment Type: Natural Lake Pigment  
Source: Gardenia jasminoides (Cape Jasmine)  
Country of Origin: East Asia (China, Japan, Korea)  
Suitable Mediums: Watercolor, Oil, Tempera, Textile Dyeing  
Lightfastness: Moderate (can fade over time with prolonged exposure to light)  
Opacity: Semi-translucent  
Other Names: Gardenia Blue, Genipin Blue, Natural Blue Lake  
Color Index Code: NA (Natural Organic Pigment)