Also known as scarlet worm, scarlet grub, kokkos (Greek), kokkinos (Greek for “scarlet”), תולעת שָנִי (tolaat shani, Hebrew for “scarlet worm”), qirmiz/kirmizi (Persian/Turkish for “red”).

What is it?
Kermes is a scale insect found on evergreen oaks of the Mediterranean, especially the Kermes oak (Quercus coccifera) and the Palestine oak (Quercus calliprinos). The females feed on the sap and produce a vivid red dye, one of the most important sources of red in antiquity.

Historical Note
The name kermes comes from Persian or Turkish qirmiz/kirmizi (قرمز), meaning “red.” This dye was mentioned in the Old Testament, where wool was dyed scarlet red, called שָנִי (shani) in Hebrew. The insects themselves were called תולעת שָנִי (scarlet worm or grub). In Greek, the word kokkinos (κόκκινος) referred both to the scarlet shade and to the shape of the insect.

Before the arrival of cochineal from the Americas, kermes was Europe’s main source of brilliant scarlet. However, it was expensive and labour-intensive to produce: women and children traditionally collected the tiny insects, often almost invisible to the naked eye. They were then steamed in vinegar and dried for storage.

Active Dye Components
Primarily carminic acid and related anthraquinones.

CI Colour Name
Closest family: CI Natural Red 4.

Shading & Colour Notes

• Produces a brilliant scarlet red, slightly orange-toned.
• Works best on wool

Season & Availability
Kermes can only be collected during two months in summer. Once our supply is sold out, restock will only happen the following year.

Source
Our kermes is handpicked, steamed, and carefully dried. Packaged in 1 g portions due to the rarity and labour required in harvesting.