One of a diminishing number of UK-based ink producers, Diamine really are a jewel in the crown of the British fountain pen market. Established in 1864 in Liverpool, the company has continually remained loyal to their roots and still produce organic inks with a hands-on, careful approach.
About Diamine
Diamine Inks have been operating since 1864. Having begun operations on a smaller scale manufacturing handmade inks, Diamine still today retain those traditional methods and formulas for ink production. They proudly state they have only adjusted their original formulas where necessary to comply with current legislation.
Since their inception, the company has grown in accordance with demand, and in 1925 they moved from their original premises to a purpose-built ‘state of the art’ factory in Liverpool. In subsequent years, more changes followed with the company changing hands and eventually moving to their current location near to the world-famous Aintree Race Course. Despite the changes however, the Diamine trade mark and production ethos remained consistent. Today, the name symbolises the finest quality in fountain pen, calligraphy and drawing inks and stamp pads.
Notable individuals to have used Diamine ink include presidents Obama and Medvedev when signing 2010's nuclear arms treaty. The Monaco Red colour was specially devised for his Serene Highness Prince Rainier III of Monaco and the Grimaldi family in conjunction with a presentation of a limited-edition fountain pen. With dozens of colours in its range, Diamine inks are water-based, acid-free and non-toxic.
A couple of our favourites
Diamine Shimmer Blue Pearl
The Shimmer is the newest range of Diamine inks, and sees the same top-quality ink filled with beautiful metallic flecks. New colours have been added, ensuring a wide spectrum of colour choices are available for all tastes. Blue Pearl is of the richest varieties of royal blue with a night time glow owing to its silver coloured flecks. Bottles are made of high-quality glass and are 50ml (1.76oz.)
Diamine Meadow Ink
This meadow green shade in our opinion perfectly captures the balance between organic and earthy textures and vibrant tones. The result is a fresh, non-intrusive brand of green and is a perfect colour to use this spring. The 80ml (2.8oz) glass bottles have a lovely historic design, with embossed edges, giving them a high-quality feel. The 30ml (1.06oz) bottles are a high-quality plastic and perfectly lightweight for the smaller volume, allowing customers to select a few different colours from the range.