Cadmium Orange Watercolor Paint | Rublev Colours

Cadmium orange is an artificial mineral pigment formed by solid‑solution compounds of cadmium sulfide and cadmium selenide. These cadmium sulfoselenides were first produced in the mid‑19th century as chemists sought brighter, more durable alternatives to naturally occurring oranges and reds. Variations in the ratio of selenium to sulfur yield hues ranging from light yellow‑orange to deep red‑orange; the classic cadmium orange contains enough selenium to give a pure, true orange. The pigment is inert, opaque and highly stable, with excellent heat and light resistance; when formulated as a watercolor, it produces a smooth, dense color that covers readily.

In watercolors, cadmium orange offers very high tinting strength and covering power, so a small amount colours mixes strongly. The opaque particle structure produces little granulation and lifts poorly, making it ideal for bold strokes and opaque passages rather than transparent glazing. Because cadmium compounds are toxic when inhaled or ingested, artists should avoid creating dusts or aerosols and keep paints out of reach of children. The pigment is not compatible with paints containing lead or copper, as sulfide reactions may cause darkening.

Composition & Permanence

Notes: This watercolor is made with pigment, gum arabic, and traditional humectants only—no fillers, dispersants, brighteners or other modern additives—so handling and appearance vary naturally from color to color. Due to monitor and printer differences, the color you see may not exactly match the paint on paper. Drawdown images show mass tone on the left and a 1:2 tint with white on the right. Because this paint contains cadmium compounds, avoid spraying or sanding dried paint and keep out of reach of children.

Color Names