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Mica Gold

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Catalog Number CI-SC-0091
Product Name Mica Gold
CAS 12001-26-2 / 13463-67-7 / 1309-37-1 / 1317-95-9
Description Natural shimmer pigment derived from the mineral Muscovite mica coated with titanium dioxide & iron oxide. Cosmetic-grade fineness (median particle size 27-37 um). Permitted exempt color for cosmetic use.
Solubility Insoluble, but miscible in liquids (sinks to bottom in thin liquids)
Appearance Gold-yellow shimmer powder
Application All kinds of decorative cosmetics & personal care products to add pearlizing & luster effects.
Storage Store light-protected at a cool and dry place
Composition Mica (CI 77019), titanium dioxide (CI 77891), iron oxide (CI 77491), crystalline silica
Features And Benefits Provides golden color shades with shimmering and glittering luminescence
GMO GMO-free (does not contain plant-derived components)
HS Code 2525200000
INCI Mica (CI 77019), titanium dioxide (CI 77891), iron oxide (CI 77491), crystalline silica
Manufacture Natural micas are mined from granitic pegmatites and then coated with various pigments (e.g. iron oxides, titanium dioxide) to give them their specific color
Preservation Preservative-free
Purity Grade No purity grade applicable
Raw Material Source Natural mica (muscovite and/or phlogopite)
Uses Suspends best in thick bases. Can be blended with other pigments. For external use only.
Case Study

Preparation of TiO2/Mica-BN Composite Powders and Their Sunscreen Potential

Evaluation results of the sunscreen performance of spray dried TiO2/mica and h-BN. Su, Cherng-Yuh, et al. Ceramics International, 2014, 40(5), 6903-6911.

In this study, TiO2/mica and h-BN spherical composite powders were prepared by spray drying, and then these powders were mixed into linseed oil to prepare an emulsion for sunscreen protection. The experiments showed that the prepared spherical composite powders not only had good oil and near-infrared absorption capabilities, but also had better sunscreen performance with better thermal conductivity.
Preparation of TiO2/mica and h-BN composite powders
· The spray drying process was employed to create a uniform mixture of the initial powders for the fabrication of composite powders. The starting materials included commercially available TiO2-coated mica (TiO2/mica) and h-BN (boron nitride) powders. A total of 500 g of TiO2/mica and h-BN powders, in a ratio of either 4: The powders mixed in a 1:4 or 4:1 ratio were dissolved into 1000 ml of deionized water. The mixture received magnetic stirring followed by ball milling to produce a homogeneous distribution of TiO2/mica and h-BN particles in the solution.
· The resulting solution was then processed using a spray drying system with the following parameters: The spray drying process required an inlet air temperature between 180-200 °C together with an outlet air temperature of 70-90 °C and chamber temperature between 80-100 °C while maintaining the disc rotational speed at 30,000 rpm and a feed rate of 3 kg/h. The spray-dried powder went through a subsequent annealing process at 800 °C which lasted for one hour.
· The TiO2/mica composite powder along with h-BN and TiO2/mica-h-BN composite powders were mixed with linseed oil using a 20 wt% powder-to-oil ratio for emulsion preparation.

Development of Pearlescent Pigments Based on Mica Substrates Coated with Metal Oxide Layers

Color scheme for prepared dark gold pearl pigments based on different particle sizes of phlogopite mica. Hosseini-Zori, Maryam. Journal of Ultrafine Grained and Nanostructured Materials, 2015, 48(2), 101-112.

Mica-based pearlescent pigments find applications across multiple industrial sectors including thermoplastics, cosmetics, food packaging materials, children's toys, paint formulations, automotive coatings, anti-counterfeiting measures, and banknotes. This work described the preparation of two mica mineral particles by in-situ generation of iron oxide (hematite) and zirconium oxide (zirconia) in aqueous media in the presence of mica particles, iron nitrate, zirconium chloride and ammonia, giving them rich gold and bronze colors.
Comparison of the properties of mica-based pearlescent pigments
· The created pigment maintains stability when exposed to temperatures reaching 1000°C.
· The c* values collected at different observation angles show that particles with larger sizes produce a stronger pearl effect.
· Muscovite demonstrates superior color and enhanced pearlescent qualities as indicated by greater variations in c* compared to phlogopite.
· The phlogopite-based gold pearl pigment demonstrates superior hue when utilizing particles with a d (0.5) measurement of 50 μm.
· The weight percentage of nano particles of hematite and zirconia dictates the possible shades that range from gold to bronze.
· The surface of phlogopite mica is covered with spherical nanoparticles which make up the pearl pigment and remain clearly distinct from one another. The spherical nanoparticles possess a diameter of about 50 nanometers.

Custom Q&A

What is Mica Gold?

Mica Gold is a natural shimmer pigment derived from the mineral Muscovite mica. It is coated with titanium dioxide and iron oxide to provide its unique golden color. It has a cosmetic-grade fineness, with a medium particle size of less than 15 micrometers. Mica Gold is an FDA-permitted exempt color for cosmetic use, providing products with shimmering and glittering luminescence.

What are the benefits of using Mica Gold in skincare products?

Mica Gold is appreciated in skincare primarily for its aesthetic benefits. It provides a brightening or illuminating effect on the skin, helping to create a radiant appearance. Additionally, Mica Gold can blur the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles temporarily. However, it is important to note that this is not a permanent solution to skin aging, and additional skincare ingredients, such as vitamin A (retinol), should be considered for longer-term anti-aging benefits.

Is Mica Gold safe for all skin types?

As a natural ingredient sourced from the mineral Muscovite mica, Mica Gold is generally considered safe for most skin types. It is commonly used in many cosmetic products for its shimmering effect. However, individuals with specific skin concerns or sensitivities should always conduct a patch test or consult with a dermatologist before introducing new products into their skincare routine.

Why is there controversy surrounding the use of Mica Gold in the beauty industry?

The controversy surrounding Mica Gold primarily stems from the conditions under which some of it is mined. Reports have highlighted issues such as child labor in regions like Jharkhand, India, where significant deposits are found. Although many brands are shifting towards more ethical sourcing and partnering with NGOs to combat illegal mining, tracing the origins of Mica Gold can still be challenging. Consumers are encouraged to seek products from brands that prioritize ethical sourcing practices.

Can Mica Gold address specific skin concerns?

While Mica Gold can enhance the skin's appearance with a glowing and luminous effect, it's essential to understand that it primarily provides temporary cosmetic benefits. For addressing specific skin concerns or deeper issues such as aging, targeted products containing active ingredients like retinol or other anti-aging compounds should be used. The concept of "skinimalism" advocates for using skincare products that cater to specific skin needs rather than relying solely on aesthetic enhancers like Mica Gold.

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