Modern pearlescent pigments are made from powdered mica that has been bonded with metal oxides. Mica is a type of natural quartz, which occurs in the form of compressed thin sheets or plates that divide easily.
The addition of Pearlescent white can create a metallic version of any colour. It is particularly effective when blended with transparent colours such as the quinacridones and phthalos. Silver can be made with pearlescent white mixed with black.


microscope image of pearlescent white