Dye based inks do not need to be embossed to dry. They do fade faster than other inks on the market, but they are easier to clean off your stamps. If you'd like to have your stamped images last longer on your card, then look for archival inks. These are waterproof, but can stain your stamps. That won't hurt your stamps, just discolor them.
Pigment inks normally do not dry unless you emboss them. Some are tinted a light blue or pink, others are clear. There are a number of colored pigment inks on the market as well.
There are some that will dry if you use your heat tool and heat them, no embossing powder needed. Then there are others that will dry on matt paper.
Ink companies are wonderful and label their inks well. Take the time to read the front and backs of the ink pads.
So, what type of ink should you buy? That depends on your project. Most stampers do buy more than one color dye-based ink and more than one color Pigment. But most stampers will have a black and brown archival ink pads and Pigments in Gold and Silver.
Keep in mind, that if you buy your inks at a stamp store, you'll have greater selection and someone to answer your questions. Just ask!
