Name: How to MIX Daniel Smith Primatek Mineral Watercolors Serpentine Green Apatite Diopside Jadeite PBr11
Uploaded: 2021-04-25 14:44:52
Duration: 8 min 30 s

Question 1

How do you mix a DIY version of Daniel Smith Primatek mineral watercolors?

Accepted Answer

In this video I show how I approach a Primatek-style mix by focusing on the pigments that create that mineral granulation and separation. I’m using PBr11 or PY119 as the earthy, settling component, then pairing it with a green to push it toward Serpentine/Diopside/Jadeite-style results. The main takeaway is that pigment choice matters more than the label—because the behavior comes from what’s in the paint.

Question 2

What pigment is Daniel Smith Lunar Earth and why is it useful for mixing Primatek-style colors?

Accepted Answer

Lunar Earth is PBr11, and it’s a really helpful base if you want that gritty, mineral separation in a mix. I mention it because PBr11 gives you that earthy particle look that can mimic the “genuine mineral” vibe. When you combine it with a green, you can build mixes that behave like several Primatek greens.

Question 3

PBr11 vs PY119: what’s the difference for watercolor mixing?

Accepted Answer

PBr11 and PY119 can both live in that brown/earth family, but they don’t behave the same in a wash. In my description I point out that PY119 can be available in a super smooth version (like Schmincke), while PBr11 is the mineral-texture option (like Lunar Earth). If you’re chasing separation and texture, that difference is a big deal.

Question 4

What is Winsor & Newton Magnesium Brown closest to—PBr11 or PY119?

Accepted Answer

I mention that Winsor & Newton Magnesium Brown is much closer to PBr11 than you might expect, even though it’s tied to PY119 availability. So if you can’t get PBr11 easily, it’s one of the options I point you toward for a similar earthy role in mixes. It’s about getting the right look and movement on paper.

Question 5

Can I replicate Daniel Smith Green Apatite, Diopside, Serpentine, and Jadeite by mixing?

Accepted Answer

Yes—at least in the sense that you can mix something that looks and behaves similarly on the page. In this video I’m specifically matching that separating mineral-green effect, not just a flat color match. The pigment base (PBr11 vs PY119) is what helps you get closer to that Primatek-style texture.

Question 6

Where can I buy Daniel Smith watercolors worldwide?

Accepted Answer

I buy Daniel Smith and other watercolors worldwide through Jackson’s, and I link it in the description. It’s one of the easiest ways to find specific colors and pigments when local shops don’t stock them. I also include additional links for USA options where relevant.

Question 7

What is Daniel Smith Cascade Green and why do you mention it?

Accepted Answer

At the end I preview a swatch card with Daniel Smith Cascade Green because it’s another popular separating green that people love. It’s not the same as the Primatek minerals, but it gives you a helpful comparison point for that broken, granulating look. If you like separation, it’s a fun one to check out.

How to MIX Daniel Smith Primatek Mineral Watercolors Serpentine Green Apatite Diopside Jadeite PBr11

🛍️ Products Mentioned (10)

Amazon USA PBr11 Lunar Earth watercolor

Kimcrick Product

Patreon Product

List of all my favorite brushes, mixing palettes, papers, waterproof pens etc. can be found on my watercolor supplies list at

Neptune to hold a lot of water

Heritage to hold a good point

Winsor & Newton is available within the USA at Blick here (Jackson's also has them above, but only within the UK)

Daniel Smith watercolor on Jackson's worldwide

End of video swatch card preview is Daniel Smith's Cascade Green which you can find here

Daniel Smith watercolors worldwide at

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