Cobalt Zinc Silicate Blue Pigment

Description

Cobalt Zinc Silicate Blue (PB74) is a handmade single pigment cobalt zinc silicate blue pigment. It produces a vivid, cool blue with a neutral undertone and a rich, saturated masstone. Compared to traditional cobalt blues, this pigment appears brighter and more modern in character while still retaining the subtle granulation, clarity, and control that painters associate with cobalt colors.

In use, Cobalt Zinc Silicate Blue gives a bold, controlled blue ideal for luminous skies, water, glass and enamel effects, and high chroma accents in landscape and abstract work. It has strong tinting strength without the aggressive staining of phthalo blues, making it easier to lift, soften, and rework. It mixes beautifully with yellows for bright, clear greens and with reds, violets, and earths for complex teals, blue grays, and cool shadow neutrals that stay crisp rather than muddy.

This silicate 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 distinctive turquoise cobalt blue that can serve as a statement color in its own right or as a versatile mixing blue for vivid, contemporary palettes.

History

Cobalt silicate and cobalt zinc silicate blues were developed during the 20th century as part of the growth of ceramic and industrial pigments, when chemists began designing complex cobalt compounds that could withstand high firing temperatures and demanding service conditions. Cobalt Zinc Silicate Blue (PB74) is produced by combining cobalt, zinc, and silica to form a stable blue silicate phase with a bright turquoise leaning hue.

Initially created for use in enamels, porcelain, glass, and high performance coatings, PB74 was valued for its intense blue turquoise color, excellent lightfastness, and stability in both oxidizing and reducing kiln atmospheres. As artist paintmakers began to experiment with ceramic origin pigments, Cobalt Zinc Silicate Blue entered the studio as a specialty color, often positioned between traditional cobalt blues and more modern violet shades. Today it is appreciated by painters who want a high chroma cobalt blue that leans neutral while preserving the handling qualities, reliability, and subtle texture of cobalt pigments.

Pigment Information

Pigment Type: Synthetic (Inorganic) cobalt zinc silicate pigment
Source: Cobalt and zinc oxides with silica calcined at high temperature
Origin: Global industrial (modern ceramic pigment)
Suitable Mediums: Watercolor, Oil, Tempera, Acrylic, Lime / Fresco, Ceramic and cement applications
Lightfastness: Excellent
Opacity: Semi-opaque
Other Names: Cobalt Zinc Silicate Blue, Cobalt Silicate Blue, Cobalt Blue (PB74)
Color Index Code: PB74

Health and Safety

• For art use only. Not for cosmetic, food or children's use.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not eat, drink or smoke while working.
• Avoid creating or breathing dust. Work in a ventilated area and wear a NIOSH approved dust respirator (P100 or better) when handling dry pigment.
• Wear gloves and eye protection. Wash hands and work surfaces after use, and never rinse pigment into drains.
• Do not spray apply, sand or burn.
• If swallowed or if you feel unwell, contact a poison control center (U.S. 1-800-222-1222) or a doctor.
• Safety Data Sheet available on request.

Caution: Contains cobalt. May cause an allergic skin reaction. May cause allergy or asthma symptoms if dust is inhaled. Avoid breathing dust and repeated skin contact. Do not rinse into drains.