Cobalt Chromite Blue

Description

Cobalt Chromite Blue (PG26) is a handmade single-pigment cobalt chromite green spinel pigment. Built on a complex spinel structure of cobalt and chromium oxides, it forms an exceptionally stable crystalline matrix. It produces a cool blue with a strong blue undertone and a rich, densely saturated masstone. Compared to modern organic greens like phthalo, this pigment is more mineral and restrained in chroma, offering a natural, stone-like green that feels grounded, not overpowering.

In use, Cobalt Chromite Blue gives a controlled, sophisticated blue-green ideal for evergreen foliage, conifers, patinated metal, stone, distant trees, and cool shadows in landscape and figure work. It has strong tinting strength without the overpowering staining of phthalo greens, making it easier to adjust, glaze, and lift. It mixes beautifully with yellows for natural foliage greens, with earths for mossy, forested neutrals, and with blues, violets, and blacks for cool shadow tones and deep, atmospheric blue-greens that stay crisp rather than muddy.

This spinel pigment is chemically inert, heat-resistant, and highly resistant to acids and alkalis, which makes it suitable across a wide range of binders and mediums. In artist’s colors it offers a dependable, mineral green that can function as a primary cool green on the palette, a subtle alternative to high-chroma organics, or a quiet mixer for palettes that favor nuance, atmosphere, and tonal control.

History

Cobalt chromite greens were developed in the 20th century as part of the expansion of ceramic and industrial pigments, when chemists began engineering complex cobalt and chromium oxides into robust spinel structures that could withstand extreme kiln temperatures and harsh environments. By calcining cobalt and chromium oxides together at elevated temperatures, they produced a stable green spinel with excellent lightfastness, opacity, and resistance to weathering.

Initially used in ceramics, enamels, architectural finishes, and industrial coatings, cobalt chromite green was prized for its neutral, slightly bluish green tone and its ability to retain color under demanding outdoor exposure. As interest in mineral-based, highly permanent pigments grew among artists, Cobalt Chromite Green (PG26) began to appear in select artist ranges and handmade paints as a technical, modern alternative to both traditional earth greens and intense synthetic organics. Today it is appreciated by painters who want a reliable, mineral green with subtle chromatic personality and a long record of durability.

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, off skin, and out of any contact as well as keep 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: Synthetic (Inorganic) cobalt chromite green spinel

Suitable Mediums: Watercolor, Oil, Tempera, Acrylic, Lime / Fresco, Ceramic and cement applications

Lightfastness: Best

Opacity: Opaque to semi-opaque

Other Names: Cobalt Chromite Green, Cobalt Green Spinel, Cobalt Green (PG26)

Color Index Code: PG26