Cobalt carbonate is an extremely powerful and concentrated ceramic colorant, mainly used to produce intense blue tones in glazes and engobes. It is one of the most stable and reliable pigments, capable of resisting high temperatures and atmospheric variations in the kiln, maintaining its color with great precision. Its application adapts to various ceramic techniques, and in small quantities it can even dye other base colors blue.
Cobalt carbonate is one of the most desirable pigments in ceramics because of its ability to create deep and vibrant blue tones, from sky blue to navy blue. Its versatility allows it to generate varied visual effects, such as speckled hues, glazes and high gloss glazes, depending on the mixture and application technique.
This pigment has been used since the 8th century in Persia and China, and its impact on historical ceramics has left a lasting impression, visible in the famous blue and white porcelains of the Ming dynasty and in European majolica.
Interesting Fact
The characteristic blue patterns of Chinese ceramics from the Ming dynasty were achieved with cobalt carbonate.
Helpful Tip
Use cobalt carbonate in small amounts, as it is extremely strong. Too much can lead to shades of dark blue almost black, which can dominate the design if not well controlled.
