A pale yellow natural resin from the Callitris genus that is native to Australia and from the species Tetraclinis articulata that native to northern Africa. Although sometimes called "gum juniper," sandarac is not derived from true junipers of genus Juniperus (see "juniper resin"). Drops of resin, "sandarac tears," are hard and brittle with a white powdery surface due to oxidation, the substance forms a clear, hard film that becomes darker and redder with age. Sandarac spirit varnishes dry quickly and have been used for retouching, making protective and decorative coatings, and as an artists' paint vehicle.
