J. Herbin

J. Herbin

The J. Herbin brand was founded in Paris in 1670 by Jacques Herbin, a sailor who imported the first shellac formulas from his travels in India. Originally a sealing wax manufacturer, the factory introduced writing inks in 1798, starting an uninterrupted production that continues to this day. J. Herbin inks are among the most appreciated by handwriting enthusiasts.

J. Herbin fountain pen inks, produced in France, cover a wide range of needs: from everyday writing to collection. Each color bears a poetic name inspired by French cultural heritage. The main line is La Perle des Encres, available in 40 shades in 100 ml, 30 ml, 10 ml bottles and international cartridges — a solid choice for those seeking quality French inks for daily use or to start a collection.

Among other lines, Les Encres Parfumées scented fountain pen inks add an olfactory note to writing, with delicate essences integrated into the formulation. For pen maintenance, the J. Herbin cleaner removes ink residues from the nib and converter without damaging internal materials. Jacques Herbin also offers Les Couleurs de Paris and Les Encres Collectors, limited edition releases for collectors.

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J. Herbin fountain pen ink collections

The J. Herbin ink range includes distinct lines for different needs. La Perle des Encres is the historic line: 40 water-based colors, compatible with all fountain pens equipped with converters or international cartridges. The 100 ml and 30 ml bottles feature a nib holder integrated into the cap, useful for color testing before filling. The Les Encres Parfumées line adds scented essences to the standard formulation; available colors are fewer and are not waterproof. Les Encres Collectors includes limited edition releases, often linked to anniversaries or special collaborations.

Compatibility and available formats

All water-based J. Herbin inks are compatible with fountain pens of any brand equipped with a converter filling system or international cartridges. La Perle des Encres is also available in standard international cartridges, a practical format for those who use their pen on the go. For maintenance, J. Herbin produces a specific fountain pen cleaner, formulated to remove ink residues from the nib and converter without damaging internal materials. To learn more about how fountain pens work, Wikipedia offers a technical overview of the filling system and nib.

History and manufacture

The J. Herbin factory is based in Paris and has maintained documented continuous production since 1670. Original production was dedicated to sealing wax, obtained from shellac formulas imported from India. J. Herbin writing inks were introduced in 1798 and joined the production of sealing wax, which the company continues to produce today.

FAQ

Are J. Herbin La Perle des Encres inks suitable for all fountain pens?

Yes, La Perle des Encres is water-based and compatible with all standard fountain pens equipped with a converter or international cartridges. As a dye-based ink (not pigmented), it does not require frequent flushing and has a smooth flow suitable even for fine nibs.

What is the difference between La Perle des Encres and Les Encres Parfumées?

La Perle des Encres is the main line of J. Herbin inks: 40 colors, available in multiple formats (100 ml, 30 ml, 10 ml, cartridges), standard water-based. Les Encres Parfumées is a smaller line with scented essences integrated into the formulation; there are fewer colors and less water resistance. Both lines are compatible with standard fountain pens.

Are J. Herbin inks waterproof?

The standard La Perle des Encres line is not waterproof. Les Encres Parfumées is not waterproof. For those seeking water resistance, J. Herbin currently does not produce a waterproof pigmented line in its standard range; in this case, it is preferable to consider pigmented inks from other manufacturers compatible with fountain pens.

How often should J. Herbin cleaner be used?

The cleaner is recommended whenever you change the color or type of ink, and periodically for pens in daily use. It is also useful for removing dried ink deposits in the converter or nib channel, especially after prolonged periods of disuse.

How do I clean a fountain pen after using J. Herbin inks?

For ordinary cleaning, simply rinse the converter and nib with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. For a more thorough cleaning, especially after prolonged use or before changing colors, the J. Herbin cleaner dissolves dried ink residues in the nib channel and converter without damaging internal materials. Fountain pens not used for prolonged periods should be emptied and rinsed before storage.

J. Herbin