Discover properties for over 40 watercolor pigments. Search by code (PR254, PV19, PB29) to see lightfastness, transparency, chemical formulas, and manufacturers. A free professional tool for artists.
As a watercolorist, understanding your materials is key to mastering the medium. Use this database to quickly find the properties of specific pigments. Whether you are working with PR254 (Pyrrole Red), PB29 (Ultramarine Blue), or PV19 (Quinacridone Violet), you get instant access to essential technical data.
Understand Your Paint Properties
Knowing the lightfastness, transparency, and chemical composition of your pigments is crucial for creating durable, high-quality watercolor paintings. Our database gathers all the technical data you need in one place.
Lightfastness – How Long Will Your Colors Last?
Lightfastness is rated using the ASTM scale from I (Excellent) to III (Fair). In watercolor, where pigments are often thinly applied and exposed to light, this is a critical factor for the longevity of your artwork.
Transparency and Opacity in Watercolor
The magic of watercolor lies in its transparency. This database helps you distinguish between transparent, semi-transparent, and opaque pigments—essential knowledge for glazing techniques and color mixing.
Chemical Composition and Pigment Stability
For those who mix their own paints or want to understand how pigments behave in different techniques. Copper Phthalocyanine (PB15) behaves differently than Iron Oxide (PR101)—here you can see why.
Manufacturers and Trade Names
The same pigment can have different names depending on the brand. Whether it is Daniel Smith, Winsor & Newton, or Old Holland, our database shows what the manufacturers call the pigments you are looking for.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
How to Use the Pigment Database
Step 1: Search by pigment code or name Enter the pigment code (e.g., PR254) or common name (e.g., "Cadmium Red") in the search field and click Search.
Step 2: Filter by color family or lightfastness Use the dropdown menus to narrow your search to specific color groups (Red, Blue, Yellow) or lightfastness ratings (I, II, III).
Step 3: Read the full pigment data Each pigment card displays:
Pigment code and common name
Lightfastness rating with descriptions
Transparency (Transparent, Semi-Transparent, Opaque)
Color family and chemical formula
Common manufacturers and trade names
Oil absorption (for paint makers) and health information
Step 4: Apply the knowledge to your painting Take this knowledge back to your easel. If you know a pigment is transparent, you can plan your glazes with confidence.