Recreating Egyptian Blue: A 5000-Year-Old Pigment with Modern Applications

Researchers at Washington State University have successfully recreated Egyptian blue, the world's oldest synthetic pigment, used in ancient Egypt approximately 5,000 years ago. Through experimentation with various raw materials and heating times, they developed 12 recipes for the pigment, providing valuable insights for archaeologists and conservation scientists. Surprisingly, beyond its historical significance, Egyptian blue exhibits properties like near-infrared luminescence, suggesting potential modern applications in fields such as fingerprint identification and anti-counterfeiting inks. This research not only unveils the secrets of ancient Egyptian craftsmanship but also highlights the power of modern science in exploring our past.