Inktend / Ink library / Cornaline d'Egypte
Cornaline d'Egypte
Founded in France in 1670, one of the oldest ink makers still operating — its 1670 anniversary line is known for pronounced gold sheen.
Paper & pairing
Warm tones (oranges, yellows, ambers) show strong contrast between light and dark areas of each stroke, which is part of why they're popular with broader nibs. Sheening inks need the right conditions to show off — a wetter nib and a coated, less-absorbent paper (Tomoe River and similar sheets are the community standard) let the ink pool slightly and separate into its second color as it dries. On cheaper, more absorbent paper the sheen effect will mostly disappear.
About J. Herbin
Founded in Paris in 1670, J. Herbin is the oldest ink maker still in business — its 1670 anniversary line, launched to mark 350 years, is known for pronounced gold sheen.
Storing and using the bottle
Bottled fountain pen ink has an effectively long shelf life when kept capped and out of direct sunlight — most inks remain usable for years. The main risk isn't the ink spoiling, it's a pen sitting inked and unused for weeks: that's what causes clogs, not the ink's age.
Frequently asked questions
Similar shades By colour distance
Color shown is a close digital approximation of a typical swatch, not a calibrated color match.