The Blueprint's Blue Legacy: Unraveling the History Behind the Iconic Color

In the realm of architecture and engineering, blueprints are an indispensable tool for visualizing project plans. But have you ever wondered why these large-format prints are always adorned with a distinctive blue hue? The answer lies in a fascinating chemical process that dates back to the early 18th century.

In 1704, an alchemist and a dye-maker in Berlin stumbled upon a vivid blue dye while experimenting with potash and iron sulfate. This serendipitous discovery led to the creation of Prussian blue, a color that would later become synonymous with blueprints.

Initially known as Berlin blue, Prussian blue gained popularity for its durability and intensity, making it a favorite among artists and printmakers.

Fast forward to 1842, when English photographer and chemist John Herschel discovered that combining ferric ammonium citrate