Some color combinations just seem to come alive on the paper—and this mix is one of them. In this Watercolor Mixing Recipe, we’re exploring the unexpected harmony between Phthalo Blue Turquoise and Bloodstone Genuine. One is bold, transparent, and smooth; the other, earthy and powerfully granulating. When blended, these two opposites create mesmerizing cool tones filled with texture and depth—perfect for painting moody skies, distant landscapes, or abstract expressions inspired by nature.

A vibrant, deep turquoise with exceptional clarity and staining strength, Phthalo Blue Turquoise (PB16) brings oceanic depth and jewel-like brilliance to any palette. This highly transparent pigment flows beautifully, creating luminous washes and bold mixes. It leans toward green in mass tone and softens to a clean turquoise blue when diluted—perfect for portraying water, shadows, or expressive cool tones.

Pigment: PB16
Transparency: Transparent
Staining: Staining
Granulation: Non-granulating
Lightfastness: Excellent

Read the full color story →

Mined from the hills of India, Bloodstone Genuine is a fascinating PrimaTek® color made from the natural mineral heliotrope. This earthy gray-green is packed with texture—granulating dramatically as it settles into paper, revealing flecks of rich hematite. When diluted, it reveals warm gray undertones; in mass tone, it’s mysterious and moody. Bloodstone Genuine adds natural depth and shadow to any mixture.

Pigment: Genuine Bloodstone (Natural Mineral)
Transparency: Semi-transparent
Staining: Low
Granulation: Strong
Lightfastness: Excellent

Read the full color story →

When Phthalo Blue Turquoise meets Bloodstone Genuine, the result is captivating. The smooth, staining turquoise pigment intertwines with the granulating, earthy mineral to create a cool, stormy mix that feels both deep and dynamic.

In washes, the granulation of the Bloodstone breaks apart beautifully, adding texture that feels earthy—like shifting sands beneath clear water or distant mountain shadows. Depending on the ratio, you can create everything from icy teals and slate blues to moody, weathered neutrals

For artists who love expressive texture, this pairing is a must-try. The mix demonstrates how a smooth synthetic pigment and a granulating mineral pigment can interact to produce layered, atmospheric results. Try it for yourself!