In the 1800s, emerald green became the height of fashion. It was vibrant, eye-catching, and found in dresses, wallpaper, and even artificial flowers. But this beautiful hue had a deadly secret—it was made using arsenic.
Known as “Scheele’s Green” and later “Paris Green,” the pigment contained copper arsenite, a toxic compound. Prolonged exposure could cause ulcers, respiratory problems, and even death. Factory workers making the pigment, and wearers of green garments, unknowingly suffered horrifying symptoms.
Despite growing concerns, the color remained popular for decades. It wasn’t until well into the late 19th century that safer dyes replaced these poisonous pigments. Today, it serves as a chilling reminder that sometimes, beauty comes with a dangerous price.