The pigment consists primarily of a zeolite-based mineral containing small amounts of polysulfides. It occurs in nature as a proximate component of See more

The best samples of ultramarine are a uniform deep blue while other specimens are of paler color.
Particle size distribution has been found to vary among samples of ultramarine from various workshops. Numerous grinding techniques used by … See more

Antiquity and Middle Ages
The name derives from Middle Latin ultramarinus, literally "beyond the sea" because it was imported from Asia by sea. In the past, it has … See more

Synthetic ultramarine, being very cheap, is used for wall painting, the printing of paper hangings, and calico. It also is used as a corrective for the yellowish tinge often present in things … See more

Natural production
Historically, lapis lazuli stone was mined in Afghanistan and shipped overseas to Europe.
A method to produce … See more

Easel paintings and illuminated manuscripts have revealed natural ultramarine in a perfect state of preservation even though the art may be several centuries old. … See more

Ultramarine is a blue made from natural lapis lazuli, or its synthetic equivalent which is sometimes called "French Ultramarine". More generally "ultramarine blue" can refer to a vivid blue.
The term ultramarine can also refer to other pigments. … See more