Making and using mineral and botanic pigments has over thousands of years of history in Tibet. These kinds of pigments can be preserved well for thousands of years without fading because of their durability.

Since ancient times, Tibetan murals, thangka paintings have been drawn with mineral pigments such as malachite, mica, coral, agate, turquoise and pearls, as well as botanic pigments including saffron, rouge, cyanin, yellow lotus and so forth.

With unique characteristic, these colorful pigments become one of the most dazzling heritages in Tibet.

Photo shows mineral material for producing dark blue pigment. [Photo/VTIBET.com]

Photo shows many kinds of mineral materials. [Photo/VTIBET.com]

Photo shows Mandala drawn with mineral pigments. [Photo/VTIBET.com]