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Synthetic Indigo

VAT Blue 1

Alternate Name

PB66

Pigment Description

A deep blue-black dye. This is the synthetic version of the natural indigo. We've included it separately here since it is listed on tubes sometimes as VAT Blue 1. However sometimes it is listed as Synthetic Indigo, PB66. Reports conflict on its lightfastness, and some say that natural indigo was less lightfast. However, it is fairly easy to mix a range of indigo colors which are lightfast, so its appeal is probably more for those who wish to paint with it for other reasons.

We were super surprised to hear about its toxicity.

Stats

Lightfastness

Varies widely

Conflicting reports

Transparency

Transparent

Toxicity

Previously thought to be category of lesser concern, however we were surprised to learn of some serious toxicity

Monona Rossol has work available here which mention the toxicity of indigo. We also noticed the hazard and safety warnings over at Kremer. Treat all pigments and paints with studio safety protocols.

Chemical Name

Indigoid

with VAT Blue 1 (Synthetic Indigo)

No single-pigment Oil found with VAT Blue 1

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