It is the pigments we start with to reach our aim of having the best quality watercolours.  We experimented with pigments from around the world to create colours that blend perfectly when added to water. The pigments used in Derivan Watercolours are of the highest quality, selected for their superior performance in the strength of colour and exceptional brilliance, which have the highest permanence ratings. Our colours are classified as ASTM I or ASTM II, an internationally recognized classification of art materials given by ASTM International (formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials). These two levels indicate that Derivan Watercolours have strong fade resistance (lightfastness) that will ensure their colours remain strong and clear. 

The additional fillers used in other products are kept to a necessary minimum in order to let the pigment take centre stage and work beautifully with water. The particle size and quality of the pigments play a strong role in the behaviour of watercolour products. Transparency refers to how opaque the colour is. Most watercolour colours, but not all, are transparent and allow the texture of the paper to peek through. This quality must also be taken into account when layering, as the colour and texture below any watercolour layer can be affected by any additional applications.