Today, you can tell a quality ink from the very first stroke on paper. But how was it 4,000 years ago? A little digging into history reveals that the earliest forms of ink originated in Egypt and China and date back to around 2,500 BC. At the time, ink was made from soot or lampblack mixed with water and gum arabic, resulting in a durable substance ideal for writing on materials such as papyrus or silk. If in the past some of the most important attributes of ink were durability and adhesion, today flow, saturation, and drying time are the main criteria—though there is much more to consider when purchasing ink. Let’s find out what makes a great ink!
Color Saturation & Depth
It may not be the first aspect someone would look at, but for me, color is the most important quality of ink. If I don’t resonate with it, the other attributes become almost irrelevant. The saturation must be balanced—neither too overpowering nor too dull—but I find myself drawn to colors that pop out on paper rather than muted ones. Beyond the color itself, I also look out for special effects like sheen and shimmering. These subtle elements can bring out unexpected depth or create a dazzling finish that makes the ink truly stand apart.
Sheen is the subtle, glossy overlay that shows up when the ink dries, often shifting to a different color depending on the viewing angle or light. It adds a unique touch that really stands out in the whole text. Shimmering, on the other hand, refers to tiny reflective particles mixed into the ink (usually either gold or silver) that shine in the light. These subtle elements can bring out unexpected depth, setting off a dazzling finish that makes the ink feel sophisticated.
While sheening inks are safe to use in most fountain pens and generally won’t cause any issues, shimmering inks require more attention. The reflective particles that give shimmering inks their sparkle can build up in the feed of a fountain pen, potentially leading to clogs over time. For this reason, it’s recommended to use these inks with caution or reserve them for dip pens and specific creative purposes.
With lots of options available, there is only one ink that will always have my heart: Emerald of Chivor from Jacques Herbin.
Flow and Performance
Another aspect I’m interested in is the ink flow, which is essential to the overall perfomance of the ink. A great ink provides a smooth and consistent flow, ensuring an effortless glide of the nib across the paper. It shouldn’t feel dry or skip unpredictably.
The right balance of viscosity is crucial when it comes to ink. It is responsible for the smooth ink flow through the pen, preventing clogs that can disrupt the writing experience. At the same time, it allows the ink to deliver consistent color on the paper without becoming too watery or pooling excessively. Too thick, and you risk clogs within your fountain pen. Too thin, and you can barely see any rich hues on paper—not to mention bleed-through, every writer’s nightmare.
Furthermore, compatibility with different types of paper is crucial. High-quality ink should perform well on almost any kind of paper, from standard office paper to its premium counterparts. Issues like feathering—when ink spreads uncontrollably—or bleed-through, where ink soaks through the paper and messes up the other side, shouldn’t come up if you go for the right ink.
Drying Time
No one likes smudges on their freshly written notes. My honest advice: always use fast-drying ink if you’re left-handed, or you know you might mess it up. The drying time of ink can majorly influence its usability. Fast-drying inks are ideal for left-handed writers or those who need to write down notes quickly. However, there’s often a trade-off between drying speed and vibrancy, as slower-drying inks usually bring out richer colors. A great ink strikes the perfect balance—drying quickly enough to keep smudges from showing up while holding onto its brilliance.
Archival Quality
There are situations when longevity prevails over sheen or color saturation. Some documents need to be carefully preserved over the years, and the archival quality guarantees it stand the test of time. This type of ink is usually used for official documents, and artwork, but if you plan on writing a letter to be passed on your grandchildren, go ahead, it’ll be a great memory for them.
Safety for Writing Instruments
If the ink is not safe, skip it—at least with the pens you care about most. Fountain pens have delicate mechanisms that can be damaged by overly saturated or poorly formulated inks. Quality inks are specifically designed to prevent clogging, corrosion, or residue buildup, ensuring that your writing instruments stay in top condition for years to come. Finally, avoid India ink and any other inks typically formulated for dip pens, as these can cause irreversible damage to your fountain pens.
On a final note, I’m curious, what makes a great ink in your opinion?
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