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Here’s a fun fact: the average person spends about 90% of their time indoors. Ninety percent! That means your wall colors have a starring role in your life—they’re not just background players. And if you’re ready to ditch neutrals , tans, grays and beiges and dive headfirst into some drama, jewel tone paint colors are here to steal the show.
Why jewel tones? Jewel tones bring vibrancy, sophistication, and depth to any space. These rich, saturated colors aren’t just for royal palaces and fancy ballrooms.
Think of them as the little black dress of interior design—timeless and stunning but still versatile. So let’s talk about the best jewel-tone paints from Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams to make your walls feel like they just stepped out of a design magazine. Ready? Let’s dig in!
What Are Jewel Tones, Anyway?
Jewel tones are the divas of the color wheel. Inspired by…you guessed it…jewels, these colors are deep, rich, and luxurious. Think emerald greens, ruby reds, sapphire blues, amethyst purples, and topaz yellows. They’re bold, but they’re also incredibly versatile. Jewel tones can make a room feel moody and dramatic or warm and inviting, depending on how you style them.
Not all jewel tones are created equal. Some shades can lean too harsh or overly saturated. It may leave you with walls that scream instead of sing. That’s where this list comes in handy. I’ve curated the best jewel-tone paints from Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams to help you nail the perfect look.
1. Emerald Green: The Showstopper
Benjamin Moore’s “Hunter Green” (2041-10)
LRV 6.39
If emerald green were a person, it’d be that effortlessly chic friend who always looks fabulous without even trying. Hunter Green is deep, elegant, and slightly moody. Pair it with brass accents and leather furniture for a look that screams, “I’m sophisticated, but I know how to have fun.”
Try a Samplize sample of Hunter Green
Sherwin Williams’ “Evergreens” (SW 6447)
LRV 8
Evergreens is a slightly softer take on emerald and has a deep forest feel to it. Its the perfect color for creating a serene bedroom or an eye-catching accent wall in the living room. Pro tip: Add cream-colored curtains or light wood furniture to keep things balanced.
Try a Samplize sample of Evergreens
2. Sapphire Blue: The Statement Maker
Benjamin Moore’s “Newburyport Blue” (HC-155)
LRV 10.31
This shade is like a midnight sky with just the right hint of drama. Newburyport Blue is bold but not overwhelming, making it ideal for a home office or dining room. Pair it with crisp white trim for a classic nautical vibe or gold accents for a glam finish.
Grab a Samplize sample of Newburyport Blue
Sherwin Williams’ “Naval” (SW 6244)
LRV 4
Naval isn’t just a color; it’s a vibe. This deep, inky blue was even named Sherwin Williams’ Color of the Year in 2020, and for good reason. It’s sophisticated, versatile, and pairs beautifully with metallics. Pro tip: Use Naval in small doses if your space doesn’t get much natural light—it can feel a bit heavy in dim rooms.
Grab a Samplize sample of Naval
3. Ruby Red: The Bold and the Beautiful
Benjamin Moore’s “Million Dollar Red” (2003-10)
LRV 12.58
Talk about a showstopper. Million Dollar Red is unapologetically bold, making it the perfect choice for a statement wall or a dramatic dining room. Pair it with black-and-white decor for a high-contrast, editorial look.
Grab a Samplize sample of Million Dollar Red
Sherwin Williams’ “Real Red” (SW 6868)
LRV 13
Real Red is a bit more playful and vibrant, making it great for a kid’s playroom or a funky kitchen. Pro tip: Keep the rest of the palette neutral to let this fiery red take center stage.
Try a Samplize sample of Real Red
4. Amethyst Purple: The Unexpected Hero
Benjamin Moore’s “Black Raspberry” (2072-20)
LRV 6.78
Don’t sleep on purple. Black Raspberry is a deep, velvety shade that adds a sense of luxury to any room. Use it in a cozy library or a powder room for a look that’s equal parts chic and dramatic.
Grab a Samplize sample of Black Raspberry
Sherwin Williams’ “Expressive Plum” (SW 6271)
LRV 12
Expressive Plum is a rich, warm purple with a hint of red undertone. It’s perfect for creating a moody, romantic bedroom or a statement-making entryway. Pair it with soft pinks or metallics for a balanced look.
Grab a Samplize sample of Expressive Plum
5. Topaz Yellow: The Energizer
Benjamin Moore’s “St. Elmo’s Fire” (292)
LRV 65.86
This golden yellow is like sunshine in a can. It’s warm, inviting, and surprisingly versatile. Pair it with deep greens or blues for a striking contrast, or use it in a kitchen to add a burst of energy.
Grab a Samplize sample of St. Elmo’s Fire
Sherwin Williams’ “Goldenrod” (SW 6677)
LRV 50
Goldenrod is a bit softer and earthier, making it a great choice for living spaces or dining rooms. It’s it’s a powerful color but without being too vibrant and punchy. Pro tip: Pair it with soft grays or whites for a fresh, modern look.
Grab a Samplize sample of Goldenrod
6. Teal: The Perfect Balance
Benjamin Moore’s “Teal Ocean” (2049-30) LRV 17.22
Teal Ocean is a deep, luxurious teal that adds instant sophistication to any space. It’s the perfect mix of blue and green, making it versatile enough for both modern and classic interiors. Pair it with warm wood tones or brass accents for a stunning effect.
Grab a Samplize sample of Teal Ocean
Sherwin Williams’ “Lagoon” (SW 6480) LRV 20
Lagoon is a rich, vibrant teal that leans slightly more blue. It’s bold without being overwhelming, making it a great choice for an accent wall or even kitchen cabinets. Pro tip: Use it with soft whites and neutral decor to let the color shine without overpowering the space.
Grab a Samplize sample of Lagoon
7. Fuchsia: The Playful Powerhouse
Benjamin Moore’s “Springtime Bloom” (2079-40) LRV 33.58
Springtime Bloom is a vibrant, punchy fuchsia that instantly adds energy to any space. It’s bold, feminine, and perfect for an accent wall or a lively powder room. Pair it with crisp whites or warm golds for a balanced, sophisticated look.
Grab a Samplize sample of Springtime Bloom
Sherwin Williams’ “Exuberant Pink” (SW 6840) LRV 17
Exuberant Pink is a daring, statement-making fuchsia with a bit of a magenta undertone. I think a great choice for those who love a bold pop and aren’t afraid to embrace color. Pro tip: Pair it with soft grays or navy blue for a modern, high-impact look.
Grab a Samplize sample of Exuberant Pink
SAMPLE BEFORE YOU BUY
Instead of physically going to your nearest paint store to grab your samples, you need to try Samplize Peel & Stick paint samples.
Why should you try Samplize?
- Super affordable
- Mess-free
- Non-damaging
- Made with real manufacturer paint
- Displays color just like a wall
- Environmental friendly
- Reusable
These peel & stick paint samples are super affordable and allow you to test a paint color in all different areas of a room without the mess of a traditional paint sample!
You know how I feel about testing paint colors. It’s a must!
Don’t create more work for yourself. Order Samplize now and have them shipped directly to you. No fuss, no mess! Check them out for yourself. You won’t be disappointed.
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How to Choose a Jewel Tone Paint Color
Picking the right jewel tone can feel like choosing your favorite dessert—so many options, all equally tempting. Here’s how to narrow it down:
- Assess Your Lighting: Natural light can make or break a jewel tone. Rooms with lots of sunlight can handle deeper, moodier shades like Naval or Hunter Green. Dimly lit spaces may benefit from slightly lighter jewel tones, like Evergreens or Goldenrod.
- Consider the Room’s Purpose: Want a calming bedroom? Go for sapphire blues or emerald greens. Looking for a dramatic dining room? Ruby red or amethyst purple can create a stunning atmosphere.
- Test Before You Commit: Don’t rely on a tiny paint chip. Use Samplize peel-and-stick samples or paint a section of your wall to see how the color looks throughout the day.
- Coordinate with Existing Decor: Jewel tones are bold, so make sure they complement your furniture and accessories. If your sofa is already a deep color, consider how a bold wall will interact with it.
- Trust Your Gut: Ultimately, your space should reflect your personality. If you’re drawn to a particular shade, go for it! Jewel tones are meant to make a fabulous statement.
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How to Use Jewel Tones Like a Pro
So you’ve picked your favorite jewel tone—now what? Here are some tips to make these rich shades work in your space:
- Start Small: If you’re nervous about going all-in, start with an accent wall or a smaller space like a powder room.
- Pair Wisely: Jewel tones shine brightest when paired with complementary colors. Think soft neutrals, crisp whites, or metallics.
- Consider the Light: These bold colors can change dramatically depending on the lighting in your space. Test them out with a sample first (looking at you, Samplize fans!).
- Balance the Bold: If you’re using a jewel tone on your walls, balance it with lighter furniture and decor to avoid overwhelming the space.
Jewel Tones Beyond the Walls
Not ready to commit to painting your walls? I get it, it can be a little intimidating. But he good news is jewel tones look just as fabulous in furniture, decor, and even kitchen cabinets. Try a sapphire-blue velvet sofa, an emerald-green area rug, or ruby-red throw pillows to bring these rich colors into your home.
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The Final Word
I don’t know what it is but I am feeling these vibrant colors. I actually have a teal jewel toned head board that is just stunning. I love these colors because they are rich and bold and can easily be paired with all the neutrals that I have in my home.
Jewel tone paint colors are the secret weapon your home has been waiting for. They’re bold, they’re beautiful, and they’re guaranteed to make your space feel like a million bucks. Whether you’re drawn to the depth of Benjamin Moore’s Hunter Green or the drama of Sherwin Williams’ Naval, there’s a jewel-tone paint out there with your name on it.
So go ahead, take the plunge, and let your walls shine like the gems they are. You’ll thank yourself every time you walk into the room. Promise!
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I’m Cate. As a seasoned paint color consultant and former proprietor of the highly regarded painting company WOW 1 Day Painting in Bergen County, my journey in the world of design and home improvement has been a colorful one, quite literally. Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Northern New Jersey, I’ve cultivated a passion for transforming spaces through the power of paint, furniture restoration, and thoughtful home decor.