Vermilion

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Description
Synthetic Vermilion is our exquisitely hand-crafted watercolor paint made with an extremely concentrated and high quality single source pigment mixed only with pure honey. Every pan is meticulously hand mulled, hand packed, filled, and labeled — ensuring maximum pigment concentration without any binders, fillers, or extenders. Our unique formula uses only one pigment and pure local honey, delivering a maximally concentrated watercolor paint.

Synthetic Vermilion is a vivid, warm red watercolor pigment historically developed as an alternative to natural cinnabar. Made from chemically identical mercury sulfide (HgS), it retains the legendary brilliance of its natural counterpart—with a scarlet hue that glows with warmth and opacity. From illuminated manuscripts to Renaissance altarpieces, vermilion was the dominant red for centuries, prized for its unmatched vibrancy and buttery texture.

Because of its high mercury content, Vermilion is offered for historical and professional use only, with proper handling precautions. It is ideal for artists, conservators, and collectors working in restoration, historical palettes, or museum-quality projects. Its brilliance is unmatched—offering a glimpse into the alchemical, ceremonial, and imperial worlds of the past.

Key Features
Single Source Pigment: Each product features one pure pigment, chosen for its exceptional quality.

Handmade Artisanal Process: Crafted in small batches, our watercolors are hand mulled on a glass slab and hand packed to preserve the integrity of the pigment.

Maximum Pigment Load: Designed to provide maximum color saturation, our formula contains no artificial additives or fillers

Recommended Use: Best used with a gum arabic medium to achieve optimal reactivation and fluidity.

Pigment Information
Pigment Type: Synthetic inorganic mineral pigment
Source: Mercury sulfide (natural cinnabar mineral)
Origin: China
Lightfastness: Excellent
Opacity: Opaque with mild granulation
Other Names: Cinnabar (when natural), Dragon’s Blood (archaic), Chinese Red
Color Index Code: PR106 

⚠️ Health & Safety Warning: Vermilion contains mercury and should be handled with care. Do not inhale pigment dust or ingest. Not recommended for children, casual use, or high-humidity environments. Wash hands thoroughly after use. Store securely and label clearly.

Production Process
Our watercolors are created with passion and precision. The pigment is carefully hand mulled and then mixed with pure local honey, ensuring an exceptionally concentrated and vibrant product. The entire process is carried out by hand—from mixing and mulling to filling and labeling—so you can be confident in the artisanal quality of every pan.

Usage & Care
For professional and consistent results, we recommend using a gum arabic medium. Please store in a secure area away from children and pets, and dispose of any waste in an environmentally friendly manner in accordance with all local, state, and national regulations.

If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.