The most visited post on JimRaffel.com in 2007 is #16 written October 2005 and addressing metamerism. Because of the popularity of this post I have decided to revisit the topic. I will start with some basic terminology and definitions. Then, I am going to present a real world example we are dealing with right now at ColorMetrix.

Definitions: First, metamerism requires a pair of objects. The two objects are often referred to as a metameric pair. In order to be considered metameric the pair must; match under at least one combination of illuminant and observer; not match under at least one combination of illuminant and observer; and have different spectral response curves.

Metramerism Tests: Post #16 shows an example of the GATF REHM indicator used for visual assessment of light sources. This is also an excellent of example of a visual test for metamerism. The two samples may also be measured by a spectrophotometer, and then an instrument test for metamerism can be performed. If the two samples exhibit a small Delta E under one illuminant observer combination, but have different spectral curves that cross at least three (3) times they are metameric.

Our ProofPass.com system was recently used to measure two samples. Below I have provided the L*C*h* values of a ‘Red’ swatch measured on a hard copy proof and then reproduced and measured on an LCD monitor.

The CMC(2:1) Delta E of the above two samples is 1.34 in a D50/2 degree environment.

Now, take a look at the spectral reflectance and emission curves of the two swatches. (Library Reading = Hard copy and Sample Reading = Monitor)

Again the instrument test for metamerism states that if the spectral curves differ, and cross each other at least three times, then the objects are metameric. The curves look different and I count at least 10 crosses.

As long as the physical sample is viewed in a proper viewing booth, and the monitor continues to be calibrated and also viewed in proper conditions, the metamerism effects of hard copy vs. monitor proofing above should not be a problem. My concerns about this type of metamerism extend to placing a package on a retail shelf which is seldom a D50/2 degree environment.

Related posts:

1. Golden Nugget #13 Monitor Calibration Works!
2. #16 Matamerism & Color Management
3. #54: Some Thoughts and Comments about Soft Proofing

This post has be revised and reposted at ColorMetrix[dot]com as Color Conversations: Metamerism & Color Management.

There was a good comment in response to “Golden Nugget #15 Which Instrument Should I Use?” Adam made the following comment:

“This is because some spectrophotometers are built with spectral response every 20 nanometers while others respond every 10 nanometers.”

I believe this is referred to as the resolution on the device.

Adam’s comments got me thinking about the visual spectrum in general and all the different ways we work with the spectrum on an everyday basis in our industry.

So, for our discussion Matamerism is…

When two color samples appear to match under a particular light source, and then do not match under a different light source, this is an example of “sample metamerism.” One can conclude that the spectral reflectance distributions of the 2 samples differ, and their plotted reflectance curves cross in at least 2 regions.

The next image shows 3 examples of the GATF/RHEM Light Indicator which is printed with 2 magenta colorants which are a metameric pair. In this case when viewed under proper graphic arts lighting (5000K), the two colorants appear the same color. When viewed under other light sources you can see the two different colorants.

The RHEM indicator is a great tool, because it comes in rolls with self adhesive backing, so one can purchase them from GATF, and attach them to color proofs going out to a customer. If the customer is complaining about color a simple question about the appearance of the indicator will let you know if they are viewing the proof in 5000K lighting.

This brings me to the fun part of this week’s conversation. I happen to know the “Adam” who commented on last week’s Golden Nugget, and he is a graduate student at RIT. Adam and I had an interesting discussion yesterday about Color Management being the solution to the matamerism that exists between ink jet proofing ink and media combinations, and pressroom ink and paper combinations.
Color Management also solves the problem of soft proofing matamerism that exists because of the way displays (CRT or LCD) are illuminated. Without Color Management there would be virtually no way to match ink jet or soft proofing devices to ink on paper printing presses. Because these colorants are metameric it is increasingly important that all viewing of color occur under proper 5000K lighting.

Related posts:

1. #67 Metamerism: Hard copy vs Monitor
2. Golden Nugget #13 Monitor Calibration Works!
3. EXTREME Color Management Conference