Formula X Alchemy II Nail Lacquer ($14.00 for 0.40 fl. oz.) is described as a “platinum-infused … champagne rose shimmer.” It’s a medium-dark, golden bronze with copper, blue, and gold flecks of micro-glitter and larger shimmer. Chanel Delight (LE, $28.00) is lighter (85% similar). MAC Tropical (LE, $16.00) is more shimmery, darker (85% similar). Tom Ford Beauty Burnt Topaz (LE, $35.00) is less shimmery, lighter (85% similar). MAC Fierce Entrance (LE, $16.00) is lighter (80% similar). China Glaze Harvest Moon (LE, $7.50) is darker, brighter, warmer (85% similar). See comparison swatches / view dupes side-by-side.

It is a follow-up to last year’s Alchemy, which was a very interesting shade overall. This year’s iteration is much darker and warmer, but the multi-colored shimmer/sparkle is the similar. The base color is much more pigmented, though, and it was opaque after two coats. The texture wasn’t too thick or too thin, so it applied easily and spread across the nail without pooling along the edges or streaking. I wore it for seven days with minor tip wear. The only thing I’m a little bummed about is how quickly the price increased–$1.50 in a year–which is significant.

Formula X Alchemy II Nail Lacquer

Formula X Alchemy II Nail Lacquer

Formula X Alchemy II Nail Lacquer

Formula X Alchemy II Nail Lacquer

Formula X Alchemy II Nail Lacquer

Formula X Alchemy II Nail Lacquer

Formula X Alchemy II Nail Lacquer