The above photo was taken in direct sunlight. Ink is swatched on Clairefontaine 90gsm paper, using a glass dip pen.
Specs
Name: Topaz
Maker: Monteverde
Color Family: Orange
Properties: Shading
Purchased at: Goulet Pens
What’s in a name?
Part of Monteverde’s Gemstone Collection, comprised of saturated, vibrant colors inspired by precious and semi-precious stones, Topaz is a pretty close match to that tangerine orange gem (which is the birthstone for you November babies!).
Swatches
A large swatch of ink showcases the darkest this ink gets, as well as the maximum properties it has (when held at the right angle to show any shimmer or sheen). But what about when you’re writing a letter or notes with it?
The above was written on Clairefontaine 90gsm paper, using a Monteverde Monza fountain pen with a Flex nib.
Of course, for maximum effect you want to see it in light and in motion. The following video shows the ink swatched on Skylab Letterpress 160gsm cards.
Thoughts
This one is a very true orange, whether viewed from afar or up close, in a light deposit of ink or swabbed heavily. I think it’s a brilliant match for its gemstone namesake, but beyond that it’s also a wet flowing ink that behaves well in any size nib. Though the lighter ink is, well, lighter, in a Fine nib it’s still saturated enough of a hue that I find it legible. So this is a great beginner ink, if you like orange.
Personally, I like it. I don’t write with orange very often, but it’s such a cheery hue and well-behaved ink that I recommend it for newbies to the fountain pen hobby.
*All pics and vid were taken using a Google Pixel 4a and color-adjusted to best reflect the hue of that ink.
This post was so helpful, thank you! I really appreciate being able to see the ink in longer form writing, rather than just a swab or a short sentence. I’ve been agonizing over a few orange shades from different brands for months, and your review has swayed me to get this one 😊🙏
I’m so glad to hear it! I like seeing it in long-form, as well, before making a purchase decision, which is why I started my fountain pen ink review series. I hope you love the ink!