Ancient Color Sources

Cinnabar, a toxic mercury sulfide, has been used for nearly 9,000 years, primarily in ancient Turkey. Egyptian blue, a lighter hue, was developed in Egypt, while indigo, derived from the indigo plant, became the dominant blue pigment, even influencing modern blue jeans. The quest for green pigments led to the use of malachite and verdigris, but the rarity of purple pigments highlights the fascinating history of color in ancient cultures.