Turquoise and teal are two shades of the blue-green color family that are often used interchangeably. For some, distinguishing between the two can be a challenge due to their similarities. However, there are significant differences between turquoise and teal, from the hues to the origins of their names.
Here is everything you need to know about the differences between turquoise and teal.
What is Turquoise?
Turquoise is a bright and vibrant greenish-blue color that is named after the valuable opaque gem of the same name. The name ‘Turquoise’ comes from the French word “Turquois” which means “Turkish” since it was believed the stone was originally mined in Turkey. Turquoise can be traced back to the Ancient Egyptians, who used it in their jewelry and ceremonial objects.
Turquoise is a blend of blue and green, with more blue than green. It’s a color that is often associated with the beauty of the ocean, tropical islands, and exotic places. It radiates peace, tranquility, and calmness.
What is Teal?
Teal is quite similar to turquoise, but it’s darker and has more green tones than blue. It is named after the common teal bird which has a distinct green-blue colored stripe on its head. Teal has become popular in recent years, especially in home décor, and is commonly used as a contrasting color in design.
Teal usually has a grey base, which tones down the intensity of the blue and green, making it more muted than turquoise. The result is a sophisticated and elegant shade that is often used in traditional and modern designs alike.
Differences between Turquoise and Teal
When looking at turquoise and teal side by side, it can become confusing to differentiate between the two. However, here are some of the significant differences between the two colors:
1. Hues
Turquoise has more blue than green in its makeup, and its tones range from bright, sky blue to pale blue-green. Teal, on the other hand, has more green in it than blue and is darker and more subdued than turquoise.
2. Intensity
Turquoise is a bright and vivid color, while teal has a more subdued and muted tone. Due to turquoise’s brightness, it’s usually used as an accent color, while teal is a more versatile color that can be used as a main color in a design.
3. Context
Turquoise is often associated with tropical and exotic places due to its association with the ocean’s beauty. It’s a popular color for beach and summer wear. Teal, on the other hand, is used in more formal contexts, such as for business suits, evening wear, and interior design.
Conclusion
In summary, while turquoise and teal may look similar at first glance, there are significant differences between the two colors. Turquoise is a bright and vibrant blue-green color, while teal is a darker, more subdued shade with more green tones. Turquoise is associated with the ocean and tropical paradises, while teal is a sophisticated color that can be used in more formal contexts.
Knowing the differences between these two colors can be useful when choosing colors for your wardrobe, home decor, or branding efforts. By understanding their properties, you can make a more informed decision about which one suits your needs best.