White iridescent pearl

White iridescent pearl is an iridescent pigment powder of thin natural mica flakes, silvery white with a cool blue shimmer. Viewed straight on it looks almost transparent, while at a glancing angle it flashes a bluish pearly color. It is used for water, ice, skies, highlights and decorative effects in acrylic, watercolor and oil.

Key facts

• Color: silvery white with a blue iridescent shimmer
• Pigment type: Pearlescent mica pigment (iridescent)
• Composition: natural mica (PW20) flakes colored with synthetic colorants (supplier information)
• Also known as: iridescent white, interference white, mica powder
• Opacity: transparent; the color appears in reflected light
• Suitable for: oil, acrylic, watercolor
• Packaging: 20 g jar · 1 kg bag

How to use

Stir the powder gently into a clear binder with a palette knife: gloss acrylic medium, gum arabic for watercolor, or a clear oil painting medium or varnish. Do not grind it, because broken platelets lose their iridescence. Apply it thinly over dark or deep-colored grounds, where the blue shimmer shows best; on white it reads as a faint silvery sheen. Avoid matte media and opaque colors, which dull the effect, and mix it only sparingly with other pearl or interference pigments.

About iridescent pigments

Iridescent pigments get their color largely from light interference: light reflected from the top and bottom of a very thin transparent layer reinforces some wavelengths and cancels others, as in an oil film on water. The reflected color is seen at the glancing angle, while the complementary color passes through the flake, which is why such pigments look best over dark grounds.

Safety

Breathing mica dust over long periods can damage the lungs: open and pour the fine powder gently to avoid dust clouds. Handle dry pigment with care: avoid breathing the dust and contact with eyes. Wear a dust mask (FFP2/N95) and gloves when working with the powder, work in a well-ventilated area and wipe up spills with a damp cloth. Do not eat, drink or smoke while working; wash your hands afterwards. Keep away from children and pets. For artistic and technical use only — not for cosmetics, food or tattoos.

FAQ

Why is the blue shimmer hard to see on white paper?

Because iridescent color is reflected light. On white, the complementary color passing through the flakes is scattered back and mutes the effect; a dark ground absorbs it, so the blue flash appears clearly.

What is the difference between White iridescent pearl and Silver pearl?

Silver pearl gives a neutral silvery luster. White iridescent pearl adds a shifting blue shimmer that appears at a glancing angle.

Can I grind White iridescent pearl?

No. Grinding breaks the thin platelets and the iridescence is lost; stir it in gently instead.