That's the problem with mica's and CP, most do not work. I have a beautiful Amethyst mica, but when used in CP it turns this horrid gray color. I have a red mica that turns orange. I don't guess it would be a problem if you were going for that color though lol
Those are beautiful. You have a great talent. I wish I had a smidgen of that talent to be able to make these types of candles. I have always loved the carved candles.
I don't have experience with the soybean, canola or palm, so can't help you there. I haven't put your recipe into a soap calc, but 40% cco seems like it would make it too drying. JMHO