Gamblin 1980 Oil Colors are a student grade oil paint made with the same pure pigments that go into Gamblin's professional grade Artist Oils. In addition, they use the same process of mixing, milling, filling and hand labeling. 1980 colors are formulated with pure pigments, the finest refined linseed oil and marble dust (calcium carbonate). Using marble dust to extend paints is an approach that has been used for centuries to create a more affordable paint for students. Because the same superior pigments are used in these paints as in professional oils, the student or novice can learn the mixing and working characteristics of these pigments while enjoying an economical price that allows for experimentation and generous use of the paints. Professional artists also find them useful for underpainting and preliminary sketches.