The most common method for making violet pigment, specifically Ultramarine Violet, involves a process of heating Ultramarine Blue pigment with ammonium chloride. Here's a breakdown:
Ultramarine Violet Production
Ultramarine Violet (PV15) is derived from Ultramarine Blue. The process alters the chemical composition of the blue pigment to produce violet hues. The key step involves:
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Heating Ultramarine Blue: The blue pigment is heated in the presence of ammonium chloride. This process removes varying amounts of sulfur.
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Sulfur Removal Determines Shade: The specific shade of violet achieved depends on the amount of sulfur removed during the heating process. Different degrees of sulfur removal result in different violet tones.
Characteristics of Ultramarine Violet
It's important to note some specific characteristics of Ultramarine Violet pigment:
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Low Tinting Strength: Compared to other pigments, Ultramarine Violet often has a relatively low tinting strength, meaning it doesn't impart color as intensely.
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Slow Drying (in Oil Paint): When used in oil paints, Ultramarine Violet tends to dry slowly.
Other Violet Pigments
While the above describes the production of Ultramarine Violet, remember that violet pigments can also be created from other sources, including:
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Synthetic Organic Pigments: Many modern violet pigments are synthetic organic pigments, offering different properties and color characteristics. Examples include Quinacridone Violet.
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Mixtures of Red and Blue Pigments: Violet hues can also be achieved by simply mixing red and blue pigments.
