What Is OVI Color-Shifting Ink? Chameleon Ink Guide
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2026-08-04 published · updated
SJH OVI chameleon ink (gold-green): gold color shifts with viewing angle, the classic OVI optically variable effect.
Optically variable ink (OVI, chameleon ink) is the mainstream high-end anti-counterfeit technology worldwide.
What It Is
Built on multi-layer optical interference pigments, OVI reflects different wavelengths at different viewing angles, producing a reversible two-stage color shift (gold-to-green, green-to-blue, etc.).
SJH Ink manufactures OVI ink with free printed proofs. Tel 13510998453, www.sjhink.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Selection, detection, printing and ordering — answered.
How does OVI optically variable ink shift colour?
It relies on multilayer optical interference pigments: thin metal-oxide films interfere with, reflect and absorb light so that different wavelengths are reflected at different viewing angles. The result is a pronounced, reversible two-stage colour shift — gold to green, green to blue, purple to brown.
Does OVI need special detection equipment?
No. The colour shift is visible in daylight or ordinary indoor light and needs no explanation, which is exactly why it works so well as an overt security feature that consumers and inspectors can verify themselves.
Why is OVI so hard to counterfeit?
Three reasons. The shift is a dynamic angle-dependent optical effect — scanning or photographing captures only one angle and cannot reproduce it. The pigment requires vacuum deposition with precise film-thickness control, a steep equipment and know-how barrier. And high-grade pigment is controlled by very few suppliers, with tightly managed distribution.
Where is OVI used?
High-security printing such as banknotes, passports and tax stamps; security labels and seals on spirits and tobacco packaging; and luxury and cosmetics packaging.
Which colour-shift pairs are available?
Gold to green, green to blue, purple to brown and others. Multiple pairs can be customised, and printed proofs can be supplied so you can judge the actual visual effect.
