Classical dyes and pigments produce color by the absorption and reflection of light; these are the materials that make a major impact on the color of our daily lives. In 2000, world production of organic dyes was 800,000 tonnes and of organic pigments, 250,000 tonnes and the volume has grown at  a steady rate throughout the early years of this century.  In 2019 the value of the organic dyes/pigments  market is forecast to be $19.5bn. Their value is exceeded by the very large production of inorganic pigments. Organic dyes are used mainly to color textile fibers, paper, hair, leather, while pigments are used largely in inks, paints, plastic and cosmetics. Both are used in the growth area of the digital printing of textiles, paper  and other surfaces.
Dyes are also made using the properties of chromic substances: Examples being 
Photochromic dyes and
Thermochromic dyes