Teal is a beautiful blue-green color that takes its name from the common teal, a member of the duck family. But with its blend of blue and green tones, just how much green is actually present in teal? Let’s take a closer look at the origins, definitions, and color mixes that make up this popular hue.
The Origins of Teal
The first recorded use of “teal” as a color name in English was in 1917. However, the origins of the word go back much further. “Teal” comes from the Middle English “tele” meaning a blue-green color. This in turn derives from the Old French “tel” and Old Spanish “tela” words referring to a special type of blue-green duck feathers used in decorations.
Over time, the name became associated with the common teal bird itself, a member of the duck family known for its green and blue plumage. The Latin name for common teal is Anas crecca, where Anas refers to ducks and crecca means “teal.” So the origins of the color teal are intrinsically tied to the beautiful plumage of this duck species.
Defining Teal
In basic color theory, teal is defined as a medium blue-green color. On the RGB color wheel, it falls between green and cyan. The hex code for standard teal is #008080. This represents a mix of 50% blue and 50% green.
On the CMYK color model used for print, teal is made from approximately 40% cyan and 40% yellow with 20% black. There are no strict definitions for the ratio of blue to green in teal. It can range from a bluer green-teal to a more greenish blue-teal.
Teal vs. Other Colors
Here’s how teal fits in with some other similar colors:
| Color | Definition |
| Blue-green | General term for bluish-greens |
| Green-blue | General term for greenish-blues |
| Turquoise | More green than teal with strong blue tones |
| Cyan | Pure hue between blue and green |
| Aquamarine | Blue-green with more blue than teal |
So while teal overlaps with many blue-greens, its position in the middle makes it a very distinct hue.
Shades of Teal
There are many possible shades of teal depending on how much blue or green is in the mix. Here are some common teal varieties:
| Teal shade | Description |
| Green teal | More green bias, like green with blue tones |
| Blue teal | More blue bias, like blue with green tones |
| Light teal | Paler, softened version of teal |
| Dark teal | Deeper, more saturated teal |
| Bright teal | Vivid, eye-catching teal |
| Seafoam teal | Soft, pale, greenish teal |
With various ratios of blue and green, teal takes on many shades but always retains its balance between the two hues.
Using Complementary Colors
On the color wheel, the complementary color directly across from teal is reddish-orange. This color contrast creates a vibrant, high-energy color scheme. Other teal complements include salmon, coral, rust, peach, melon, and brick red tones.
Pairing teal with its complements allows each hue to stand out clearly. The orange makes the green tones pop, while the teal emphasizes the orange. This complement creates bold, eye-catching color combinations.
Tones that Go with Teal
In addition to complements, many color tones harmonize beautifully with teal:
| Color | Why it works |
| White | Creates a fresh, oceanic look |
| Cream | Warms up and softens teal |
| Brown | Earthy contrast to teal’s coolness |
| Navy | Deepens and intensifies teal |
| Gray | Subtle contrast highlighting teal |
| Yellow | Cheerful pop of contrasting hue |
Teal is extremely versatile and works in both warm and cool palettes. The key is balancing its green and blue levels to complement other tones.
Using Teal in Design and Fashion
Thanks to its versatility, teal is widely used in all types of design and fashion:
| Application | How teal makes an impact |
| Interior design | Pops against neutral walls and brings in nature |
| Landscape design | Eye-catching accent for gardens and patio furniture |
| Graphic design | Vibrant splash of color that stands out |
| Apparel | Flattering on many skin tones. Pairs with neutrals. |
| Accessories | Fun pop of color for shoes, jewelry, bags |
| Makeup | Colorful accent shade for liner, shadow, or lipstick |
Teal makes a statement while still feeling grounded. It brings energy without being overpowering. This versatility makes it a favorite among designers and fashionistas.
The Psychology of Teal
Like many colors, teal can evoke psychological and emotional responses:
– Calming – Teal has a soothing, relaxing effect. Its blue tones bring a zen watercolor feeling.
– Refreshing – With hints of cool blue and lively green, teal feels clean, crisp, and revitalizing.
– Balanced – Teal strikes a harmonious balance between warm and cool tones. This creates equilibrium.
– Natural – Thanks to its green tones, teal conjures images of the ocean, water, trees, and plants.
– Feminine – Teal’s softness gives it a delicate, graceful feminine vibe.
– Spiritual – The balance and watery associations give teal a sense of wisdom and spirituality.
So whether you’re decorating, designing, or just wearing teal, its refreshing and harmonious nature can have positive effects.
Teal in Culture and History
Teal has unique cultural and historical significance across societies:
– In many Central American cultures, teal represents concepts like community, frontier, and humility.
– Ancient Egyptian art often depicted the Nile with blue-green teal tones.
– During the Middle Ages in Europe, teal symbolized truth, loyalty, and steadfastness.
– In Chinese culture, teal is associated with new life and rebirth. Jade amulets are often teal.
– Teal gemstones like turquoise were prized by the Aztecs and said to have healing powers.
– In interior design and architecture, teal was a hallmark color of the Art Deco movement.
– In the 1950s and 60s, bright teal became a staple color in Midcentury Modern style.
So whether in ancient artifacts or on mid-century modern sofas, teal has long been a go-to color for its beauty and symbolic meanings.
Teal in Nature
As a blend of sky blue and earthy green, teal is commonly seen throughout the natural world:
– Oceans – Tropical seas often take on blue-green teal hues.
– Lakes – Bodies of water rich in minerals shift to teal shades.
– Peacock feathers – Shimmering teals and greens create their signature plumage.
– Tropical birds – Teal parrots are famous for their vivid blue-green colors.
– Butterfly wings – Some species reveal bright teal when their wings catch the light.
– Reptile skin – The scales of some lizards and snakes display teal tones.
– Leaves – When new spring leaves emerge, many have a teal tint.
– Gemstones – Stones like turquoise, larimar, and amazonite display striking teals.
Next time you’re outdoors appreciating nature, look closely and you’re sure to spot many vivid teal treasures.
How to Make Teal Paints and Dyes
To get that perfect balance of blue and green for teal pigments:
– Start with a base of blue pigment or dye such as ultramarine or cobalt blue. Slowly mix in a green like viridian or chrome oxide green to reach the desired teal tone.
– Or start with a green base like sap, forest, or hooker’s green. Blend in a touch of blue pigment like cerulean to give it teal character.
– Another option is mixing equal parts cyan blue and green to make a balanced teal. Vary the ratios to control the teal’s warmth or coolness.
– For a muted, greyed teal, add small amounts of black, white, or a complementary color like burnt sienna.
– Test batches on swatches before mixing large quantities. Adjust to overcome any undertones.
With the right blend of blues and greens, you can mix up the perfect custom teal for any painting, dyeing, or craft project.
Conclusion
So how much green is actually in teal? There’s no fixed recipe – it can range from a more greenish blue teal to a bluish green one. But that’s the beauty of teal. With its balance of cool and warm tones, this versatile hue complements all color palettes. Teal’s soothing yet energizing vibe gives it broad appeal. Whether in wardrobes, interiors, or nature, teal’s distinctive blend is always eye-catching. So embrace both its blue and green sides and see where this dynamic color takes you!
