Goethite Pigment

Goethite is a handmade natural pigment ground from the mineral goethite, a hydrated iron oxide (FeO(OH)). It is the coloring mineral behind yellow ochres, but in its pure mineral form it gives a deeper, more saturated yellow with a dense, earthy tone. It is opaque to semi-opaque, lightfast and extremely stable.

In use, Goethite gives warm yellows and deep golden earths ideal for landscapes, shadows, wood and stone, and warm underpainting. It mixes with blues for strong greens, with reds for rich, warm oranges and with white for soft, natural tans. When heated it turns red as it converts to hematite, the same process that turns raw sienna into burnt sienna.

History

Goethite has been used as a pigment since prehistory as the main colorant in yellow ochres. The mineral itself was named in 1806 after the German poet and scientist Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who had a keen interest in mineralogy and color. As a pure mineral pigment it offers painters the essence of the ochres in a deeper, more concentrated form.

Pigment Information

Pigment Type: Natural (Iron Oxide) mineral (Goethite, FeO(OH))
Source: Natural goethite, crushed and ground
Origin: U.S.A.
Suitable Mediums: Watercolor, Oil, Tempera, Acrylic, Encaustic, Cold Wax, Casein, Lime / Fresco
Lightfastness: Excellent
Opacity: Semi-opaque to opaque
Other Names: Mineral Yellow Brown, Needle Iron Ore, Brown Iron Ore
Color Index Code: PY43

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: Natural earths and minerals contain crystalline silica (quartz). Breathing the dust over long periods can cause serious lung disease (silicosis) and lung cancer. Always use a dust respirator with the dry pigment.