The Colour Index - more than just a dictionary of dyes and pigments

What is it about?

The Colour Index has been around for over a century as a definitive listing of dyes and pigments. Many people working with colorants use the generic names for colorants employed by CI but without realising where they've originated from. The general public even come into contact with such dye nomenclature in ingredients sections on products such as cosmetics. This article explains how colorants are allocated their names and the meaning behind them.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

The article emphasises how Colour Index naming of colorants should be used and why care should be taken when doing so. A lack of understanding of CI terminology can have implications as wide ranging as problems with coloration, product safety and even important tariffs.