Graphite

A deep, smoky mineral black with a beautiful metallic luster, Graphite is a fascinating color that sits somewhere between black, charcoal, and silver. It has a quiet, earthy quality in washes, while heavier applications reveal its distinctive graphite-like sheen.

Made from naturally occurring crystalline carbon, Graphite is the same mineral long used in pencils—but despite its historic name, graphite contains no lead.

This is a wonderful choice when you want the depth of a black without the flatness of a traditional black. Use it for dramatic shadows, moody landscapes, stone, feathers, metal, architectural details, or anywhere you want a touch of mineral shimmer.

Pigment: PBk10
Pigment Name: Blacklead
Pigment Type: Inorganic
Lightfastness: Excellent / Lightfast
Transparency: Semi-transparent to opaque, depending on application
Characteristics: Smoky, mineral, metallic, granulating

A Little History

Graphite is a crystalline form of naturally occurring pure carbon. One of the most famous historical deposits was found near Borrowdale in England, where graphite was used for centuries to make pencils and other writing materials.

Despite the traditional name "blacklead," graphite is pure carbon and contains no lead.

About Letter Sparrow Watercolors

Each Letter Sparrow watercolor is handmade in small batches using carefully selected pigments and natural, non-toxic ingredients. Our paints are mulled slowly to create a smooth, rich consistency that reactivates beautifully with water.

Graphite is especially lovely when allowed to pool and granulate, revealing subtle variations in texture and its characteristic mineral sheen.

⚠️ Safety Note: Not intended for children or ingestion. Use only as intended in paint form.