Quick answer
Choose BABYCAT for a light purple holographic shimmer with a smooth finish, or COAL for a naturally textured, earthy crelly that showcases raw pigment particles.
Why texture matters in your pigment choice
Death Valley Nails' Dust to Dust collection celebrates natural pigments, but the texture varies significantly between shades. COAL is made from charcoaled coconuts, broken down with a mortar and pestle, resulting in a polish with visible texture and larger pigment pieces. This creates spots and streaks on the nail, giving an organic, raw look. In contrast, BABYCAT is a linear holographic polish with a purple/red shimmer base, offering a smooth, shimmering finish without the gritty texture.
Finish and color differences
BABYCAT delivers a light purple linear holographic effect with a purple/red shimmer base, perfect for those who want a playful, reflective finish. COAL, on the other hand, has a jelly/crelly texture with coal-derived spots and streaks, resulting in a muted, earthy appearance. The color payoff is more subtle and varies with each application due to the natural pigment distribution.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Finish: BABYCAT: smooth, linear holographic shimmer. COAL: textured, jelly/crelly with visible pigment spots and streaks.
- Application: BABYCAT: easy, 2-3 coats with base and top coat. COAL: requires careful layering to manage texture; expect some variation. If you prefer a flawless, even finish, BABYCAT is simpler to work with.
- Visual uniqueness: COAL offers an unpredictable, organic look that changes with each application. BABYCAT delivers a consistent holographic effect. Choose COAL if you embrace natural imperfections; choose BABYCAT for reliable shimmer.
Product facts
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BABYCAT: Light purple linear holographic with a purple/red shimmer base. 10-free, vegan, cruelty-free, nontoxic. BABYCAT offers a smooth, shimmering finish that is easy to apply and provides consistent holographic effects without texture surprises.
BABYCAT
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COAL: Taylor, Texas (Dust to Dust): Made from charcoaled coconuts in Taylor, TX. Pigment is broken down with a mortar and pestle, resulting in texture and larger pigment pieces. The coal creates spots and streaks on the nail with a jelly/crelly texture. COAL delivers a one-of-a-kind, raw look with visible pigment particles, but the texture may feel uneven and requires careful application to avoid clumping.
COAL: Taylor, Texas (Dust to Dust)
Which pigment fits you?
Best for
- BABYCAT: Lovers of holographic, shimmering finishes who want a smooth, easy-to-apply polish.
- COAL: Eco-conscious creatives who appreciate raw, textured pigments and a unique, earthy nail look.
Not for
- BABYCAT: Those seeking a matte or textured finish.
- COAL: Anyone who dislikes visible texture or wants a perfectly smooth, streak-free nail.




