The history of Elementis Pigments dates back to 1880 when Joseph T. Williams introduced ochre, sienna, umber, and natural red iron oxides to the marketplace. In 1888, George S. Mepham & Co. introduced its first line of products known today as our Sparmite® Barytes line of extender pigments. In 1919 the companies joined together to form C.K. Williams & Company which was later purchased by Pfizer Pigments and then Harcros Pigments. The company is proudly known today as Elementis Pigments Inc.

In 1900 Elementis Pigments introduced high-grade synthetic iron oxide pigments that provided a much brighter color than the natural red oxides. This line of Copperas Red® iron oxide pigments was further enhanced by the addition of easy dispersing grades. Today, Elementis remains the only manufacturer of Copperas Red oxides, still offering the widest range of reds including the lightest, brightest, and cleanest opaque red iron oxide ever developed.

Elementis Pigments is also credited with introducing the industry's first "stir-in" iron oxide known today as Kroma Red®. The Kroma Red line of clean, bright mass and tint colors is available in seven shades ranging from light to dark, each providing excellent stability and dispersibility.

During the late 1970's, Ferrispec® PL Premium Liquid, a high-solids liquid oxide dispersion for automating the concrete industry was developed. In 1989, North Pigments was added to the family. In 1998, Elementis introduced its latest patented product, Ferrispec GC Granular Crystals, a flowable dry granular pigment designed for metering into concrete mixers.

As a leader in the performance chemicals industry, Elementis Pigments also introduced chromium oxide green pigments and precipitated yellow iron oxides. As pigment requirements continue to develop Elementis Pigments strives to provide innovative and cost-effective products tailored to meet our customer's needs.