The color Carnelian is a rich, reddish-brown hue that exudes warmth and vitality. Named after the semi-precious gemstone, Carnelian has been cherished since ancient times for its vibrant and energizing qualities.

Carnelian originates from the natural mineral chalcedony, which is found in various parts of the world, including India, Brazil, and Uruguay. This captivating color is often used in design to evoke feelings of passion, creativity, and motivation.

Whether you're looking to add a touch of elegance to your home decor or seeking to create a bold statement in your branding, Carnelian is a versatile choice. Its deep, earthy tones make it perfect for accent walls, fashion accessories, and even digital graphics.

What Color Is Carnelian?

Carnelian is a vibrant, reddish-brown color that radiates warmth and energy, reminiscent of a glowing sunset or the rich hues of autumn leaves. This unique shade often appears in nature, from the fiery tones of certain flowers to the deep, earthy colors of polished gemstones.

Carnelian Color

What Is Carnelian's Meaning?

Carnelian is commonly associated with several powerful attributes:

  • Passion
  • Creativity
  • Motivation
  • Vitality
  • Warmth

In ancient Egypt, Carnelian was often used in jewelry and amulets, symbolizing protection and courage. In Roman times, it was believed to bring good fortune and was frequently used in signet rings.

Carnelian Hex, RGB, and CMYK Color Codes

  • Hex code: #b31b1b
  • RGB: rgb(179, 27, 27)
  • CMYK: 0, 85, 85, 30

Carnelian Color Alternatives

Here are some alternatives to the color Carnelian:

  • #b31b41: A shade of red with a slight hint of pink. It evokes feelings of romance and tenderness, making it suitable for softer design elements.
  • #b31b34: A shade of red with a slight hint of magenta. This color brings excitement and passion, perfect for vibrant and dynamic designs.
  • #b31b28: A shade of red with a slight hint of brown. It offers an earthy tone, evoking stability and reliability, ideal for grounded and natural themes.
  • #b3281b: A shade of red with a slight hint of orange. This color provides warmth and enthusiasm, suitable for inviting and energetic designs.
  • #b3341b: A shade of red with a more pronounced hint of orange. It evokes energy and creativity, making it great for lively and innovative projects.
  • #b3411b: A shade of red with a strong hint of orange. This bold and energetic color is perfect for making a striking and dynamic statement.
Carnelian Color Alternatives

Carnelian Color Combinations

Carnelian and Teal (#b31b1b, #008080)

This combination brings together the warmth of Carnelian with the cool, calming effect of Teal. The contrast between these two colors creates a visually striking balance, making it perfect for designs that need to capture attention while maintaining a sense of harmony.

Carnelian, Burnt Orange, and Goldenrod (#b31b1b, #cc5500, #daa520)

These colors work beautifully together, evoking the rich, warm tones of a sunset. The progression from deep red to vibrant orange and golden yellow creates a cohesive and inviting palette, ideal for autumn-themed designs or any project that aims to convey warmth and energy.

Carnelian, Burgundy, and Rosewood (#b31b1b, #800020, #65000b)

This trio of deep, rich reds offers a sophisticated and elegant color scheme. The subtle variations in hue add depth and complexity, making it suitable for luxurious branding, high-end fashion, or any design that seeks to exude refinement and class.

Use Carnelian In Your Projects

Using carnelian in your design can evoke a sense of passion and creativity, making it an excellent choice for projects that aim to inspire and energize. This rich, reddish-brown hue communicates warmth and vitality, drawing viewers in with its inviting and dynamic presence.

Carnelian is often applied in contexts where a bold statement is needed, such as in branding, fashion, and interior design. Its deep, earthy tones are perfect for accent walls, fashion accessories, and digital graphics, providing a touch of elegance and sophistication. Whether in ancient jewelry or modern design, carnelian continues to captivate with its timeless appeal.