Colored Particles

This is part of a guide to the identification of particles seen in samples of free particles. This file includes transparent particles of any shape that have a predominant color when viewed without polarizing filters. Anisotropic particles in this category may exhibite a change in intensity or even color when one polarizing filter is used and is rotated while observing the particle. This change in color is called "pleochroism" and is dependent on the compound having that property and its orientation. Clothing Fibers and paints can be any color and should be keyed out as "Fibers" or, in the case of paints, as spheres or agglomerates.

Magenta, Isotropic

These are isotropic particles that are tinted magenta.

Magenta, Anisotropic

These are anisotropic particles that are tinted magenta.

Red, Isotropic

These are isotropic particles that are tinted red, pink, or red-orange. Resins, blood-sucking insect frass, and garnets are common members of this group.

Red, Anisotropic

These are anisotropic particles that are tinted red, pink, or red-orange. Iron containing compounds are often reddish on the microscopic scale.

Brown, Isotropic

These are isotropic particles that are tinted tan to dark brown.

Brown, Anisotropic

These are anisotropic particles that are tinted tan to dark brown.

Yellow, Isotropic

These are isotropic particles that are tinted yellow to yellow-orange. Resins and highly hydrated iron corrosion products are common members of this group.