The story of Quinacridone pigments begins towards the end of the 19th century when the first Quinacridone compound was discovered. It wasn’t until 1955 when it was fully recognised when chemist Hans-Wolfgang Wende discovered a novel way to synthesize organic compounds based on quinoline. This discovery led to the creation of the first quinacridone pigment, Quinacridone Magenta. It wasn't long before these newly synthesized pigments found their way into the art world.
They have a relatively modern history compared to some of the more traditional pigments like Ultramarine or Cadmium Red due to being first developed in the mid-20th century. But they were groundbreaking because they offered an alternative to traditional pigments while maintaining high-quality colour properties.
Vivid and Vibrant Colours -These pigments are renowned for their intense, vibrant hues. Whether you're looking for a fiery red, a rich violet, or a brilliant magenta or gold, you'll find that Quinacridone pigments offer a wide range of striking colours that immediately catch the eye.
Exceptional Lightfastness - One of the most critical attributes is also their lightfastness. As you'll see from our list of Quinacridone pigments below these are extremely resistant to fading when exposed to light. This means that artwork created with Quinacridone pigments can endure for decades or even centuries without losing its brilliance!
Pigment no. PV19
Series: 2
Lightfastness: I – Excellent
Transparency: Transparent
Staining: 4-High Staining
Granulation: Non-Granulating
our hero colour Quinacridone Violet is a deep, reddish violet, It disperses evenly with slight granulation and moves from deep darks to clear, glowing washes. Like all Quinacridones, it is an extremely lightfast organic pigment. In terms of complementary couples, Quinacridone Violet mixes best with a cleaner primary green.
Pigment: PV 42 |
Series: 2
Lightfastness: II – Very Good
Transparency: Transparent
Staining: 2-Low Staining
Quinacridone Pink is a precise, perfect low-staining pink. Try with Indigo for deep dusty purples, or different blue hues for rich, clear purples. Quinacridone Pink can be mixed with Quinacridone Sienna or Burnt Orange in dilute wash states to create flesh tones or convincing sunsets.
Pigment: PR 202 |
Series: 2
Lightfastness: I – Excellent
Transparency: Transparent
Staining: 3-Medium Staining
Granulation: Non-Granulating
This deep red violet disperses evenly and moves from deep darks to clear, glowing washes. Like all Quinacridone, it is an extremely lightfast organic pigment. In terms of complementary couples Quinacridone Magenta works especially well with yellow greens.
Pigment: PV 19
Series: 2
Lightfastness: I – Excellent
Transparency: Transparent
Staining: 3-Medium Staining
Granulation: Non-Granulating
A true, pure medium-staining red. Drop Naples Yellow into Quinacridone Red and create a peach, or paint dry brushstrokes onto apples. Highly durable and extremely transparent
Pigment: PO 48
Series: 2
Lightfastness: I – Excellent
Transparency: Transparent
Staining: 2-Low Staining
Granulation: Granulating
Quinacridone Burnt Orange is a brilliant, smoldering orange/sienna colour. Add to Ultramarine Blue and create dramatic sky washes with a gray-blue mix that renders a full value scale. Use Quinacridone Burnt Orange to modify Sap Green in landscapes to achieve rich, mossy greens that coordinate land with sky.
Pigment: PO 48; PY 150 | Series: 2
Lightfastness: I – Excellent
Transparency: Transparent
Staining: 2-Low Staining
Granulation: Granulating
Quinacridone Gold is an excellent low-staining golden yellow pigment that can enhance any mixture. It is highly durable and extremely transparent as you can see.
When the last batch of single pigment Quinacridone Gold was produced (the manufacturer had stopped making this pigment and allowed Daniel Smith to purchase all their remaining available stock, which lasted 17 years), Daniel Smith then developed this new blend of PO 48 and PY 150 pigments.
In the world of colour, Quinacridone pigments are a shining hue within it. As we've explored their vividness, lightfastness, versatility, and mixing potential have earned them a well-deserved place in the hearts of artists palettes worldwide. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a budding creative soul, exploring Quinacridone pigments can open up new dimensions in your practice. So, grab your brushes, get your Quinacridone on, and let the magic flow onto your canvas, creating vibrant, enduring works of art.
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