[Jewelry making - Article 00251] - Re: [Orchid] Cement pigments

[Andrew Goss]

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    I wanted to add to the discussion about cement pigments: 

    Integral dyes and pigments for cement are specifically made to
    resist the alkalinity of the cement, otherwise they will break down
    over time. The cheapest and the most durable are those you commonly
    see in coloured concrete blocks: black (grey), brown, brick red,
    yellow ochre. These are usually iron oxides. Green and blue are more
    expensive and often not as vibrant. Sources of supply: building
    centres, masonry supply outlets, sculpture supply outlets. 

    You can obtain the truest and brightest colours if you use white
    Portland cement in the mix rather than the common grey cement. The
    colour of the aggregate (sand, stonedust etc.) will also affect the
    final colour. As a general rule, do not use more than 10 per cent
    pigment powder compared to the weight of the cement or the final
    concrete will be weakened. A good chart of the available colour range
    is at: http://www.solomoncolors.com/concreteclrs.htm 

    You can also use acid stains on the surface of the set concrete, but
    the colours are not as deep as integral colours. The acid etches the
    surface and the pigment stays in the recessed areas. 

    I have also had success with opaque exterior latex stains, painting
    them on the surface, then rubbing the excess off while it's still
    wet. This works well on sculpture, but I suspect it would not wear
    well on jewellery worn next to the skin. 

Andrew Goss
http://makersgallery.com/concrete

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