Color Theory Overview
Great color combinations don't just happen by accident - color theory, the science behind design - can be easily learned. If you find yourself making only jewelry in a single color scheme, pick up an inexpensive color wheel (found at most art or hobby stores) and experiment with different combinations!
Primary: Red, Yellow, Blue. You probably learned what the primary colors were in kindergarten, and using primary colors only in your work will create a fun, childlike color design. All colors, with the exception of black, are combinations of the primaries. Primary colors are found in an equilateral triangle on your color wheel.
Secondary: Purple, Orange, Green. Secondary colors are made by mixing equal amounts of primary colors with each other: Purple = Red + Blue; Orange = Yellow + Red; Green = Blue + Yellow. Secondary colors are positioned on the wheel between the colors that comprise them.
Tertiary: In-between colors, such as yellow-orange, blue-green, red-violet. These are the colors that came in the "big" box of crayons, and have the most interest in depth and ability to mix.
White and Black: Few color articles address the two basic, basic colors! Technically, white is the combination of all colors, while black is the absence of all color. Both mix well with other colors, and can be used to lighten or darken an existing color. If you are using Polymer Clay, white mixed with red will create pink; with black will create grey. In design creations, use black and white for exciting accents or by themselves for a dramatic look.
Monochromatic: The easiest color scheme to use - one single color. Use varying shades of the same color in your design, or incorporate black or white accents to add interest and depth. Another idea is to use the same color (all white, for example) but different types of stones, crystals or natural material. Imagine a necklace comprised of freshwater pearls, opalite, and a milky white Czech glass. While the beads are in the same color family, mixing the texture, shape and size will make an interesting piece.
Complimentary: Colors on the color wheel which are directly across from each other. Red and green, blue and orange, purple and yellow are all complimentary colors. While some combinations may clash, using the right materials can create a vibrant and eye-catching work of art. Think red Coral with green Turquoise, orange Carnelian with blue Sodalite, purple Amethyst with yellow Citrine.
Analogous: Colors next to each other on the color wheel, such as red and orange, blue and purple, yellow and green. Use muted shades to create a soothing appearance.
How you mix and match colors in your design is completely up to your personal tastes, which can be influenced by current trends, nature, or other factors! Color design is exciting, experiment with new color combinations to see how you like the look.
