Product description

Guanine is an iridescent substance that is found in the epidermal layer and scales. The suspension of guanine in a solvent is called "essence of pearls“. It is a substance with similar optic features to mother-of-pearl.
When it settles on the inside of hollow balls or covers the exterior of solid balls, an optical effect similar to real pearls occurs. The essence of Pearl is used in the manufacture of synthetic pearls, the coating of objects with iridescent finish and nail lacquers.

Product application

Manufacture of synthetic imitation pearls. Decoration items: sanitary materials, jewelers, umbrella’s grips and also in cosmetics for the manufacture of varnishes for nails and lipsticks. Others: paints & coating, plastics, printing inks, textiles, paper & paperboard. Globally, automotive paints and industrial machinery/maintenance coatings occupy largest market share among all pearlescent pigment applications.

Raw materials

Fish scales from species like sardine, carp or herring. It is also present in the reflective deposits of the eyes of deep-sea fish. Pearl essence from natural origin competes with synthetic chemical products.

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Simplified process Scheme