Schmincke Vault: Horadam Watercolor, Semi-Precious Pigment Set (2018)

From the Schmincke Vault:

These special Horadam tubes were produced in 2018 for a limited edition of watercolors made from stone ground, semi-precious gemstones. Earlier this year, a cache of vintage stock from this edition was found in the stock of a defunct retailer, and these rare tubes made their way back to Schmincke. The Schmincke laboratory performed tests to ensure that the colors were still in excellent condition. We purchased the entire supply at a discount, so we are able to offer these colors for a very special price, more than 40% off the original MSRP.

Each color included is a highly granulating, complex pigment with subtle shine and a wide range of possible values. The set of three includes lapis lazuli, the famous, rare blue used by painters since the Middle Ages, red opalite, a more common relative of opal mined in Arizona, and green porphyry, a lovely bluish-green quartz. You can read more about each of the colors by clicking the Color Options tab and choosing its swatch. All three colors are also available to be purchased individually.

Please note that the large, dense pigment particles in this type of watercolor tend to separate from the watercolor binder. Schmincke recommends mixing the color before use, by squeezing the paint from end to end in the tube, repeating this process for about 30 seconds. If you still notice separation, don't worry; it's normal. Simply mix the pigment into the medium with a brush or palette knife.

Three 5 mL tubes. Made in Germany.