Paints with pearlescent interference effects – Ghost, Crystal, Diamond, Opal

What we refer to as pearlescent paints with an interference effect consist of a special effect produced by a transparent pearlescent pigment that is capable of reflecting light to produce a coloured reflection. It is therefore a ‘light colour’. The colour is not produced by the pigment itself, as is the case with any other pigment, dye or material, but by the reflection of light.

The range of pearlescent, interference-effect finishes

We offer a wide range of products, including both single-component solvent-based paints (base coats) and two-component paints (2K Crystal clear coat), as well as water-based paints.

Whilst pearlescent varnishes are certainly practical, as they provide a glossy finish with a very attractive pearlescent effect, this formulation limits application to two coats and can result in sagging or the pearlescent particles shifting within the varnish whilst it is drying but before it has fully cured.

Interference effects in a solvent-based (1K) or water-based (HRC) matt base are much easier to apply, and they have the advantage of allowing multiple coats to be applied without sagging, before the glossy topcoat is applied.

►9 colours! Stardust is the first company in the world to offer 9 pure, iridescent colours (Gold, Orange, Red, Pink, Purple, Ultramarine, Blue, Green, Turquoise)

The optical characteristics of pearlescent interference effects

Interfering pearlescent effects are highly transparent, but not completely so. A slight whitish, greenish or yellowish tint may appear depending on the number of coats applied. However, the products offered in Stardust’s various interferent ranges are selected from the purest materials.

It is worth noting that the use of iridescent effects is particularly interesting as they can be applied over different background colours. The intensity and level of visibility vary greatly depending on this background colour. The luminosity of the iridescent mother-of-pearl remains subtle and will be partially obscured if applied over a colour that strongly reflects light, such as white.

Conversely, when this interference effect is applied to a background that reflects very little light, such as black, the visibility of this iridescent reflection will be at its maximum. It should be noted that, for optical reasons, interference mother-of-pearl effects do not work when applied to metallic surfaces, whether made of raw metal or coated with metallic pigments, such as aluminium.

Certain interference effects are capable of reflecting multiple colours of light depending on the viewing angle; we offer a selection of these in our various ranges, particularly in our Opal range.

There are several grades of quality amongst our interference effects, starting with the ‘Crystal’ or ‘Ghost’ grade, which is made from ultra-pure synthetic mother-of-pearl; next comes the ‘Diamond’ grade, which is made from borosilicate – essentially pure glass – resulting in a more sparkling and purer optical effect.

Finally, there are the special ‘Quasar’-type pigments used in certain Opal paints, which produce maximum luminosity and colour thanks to their complex composition. Related pages: Diamond pearlescent paint, Multicolorz pearlescent range, Iridescent paints, Black Interference range

Diamant pearlescent paint
Multicolorz pearlescent range
Iridescent paints
Black Interference range