Luck and superstition have gone hand in hand for centuries. Many cultures and belief systems attach symbolic meaning to colors that are thought to attract good or bad luck. When it comes to colors associated with good luck, there are a few that stand out across cultures. But why are certain colors considered lucky? And what meaning do they hold that makes people feel they can harness their power? Let’s explore some of the most common lucky colors and the history and symbolism behind them.
Red
Red is commonly associated with good luck and success. In Chinese culture, red is a symbol of energy, happiness and prosperity. Red is found everywhere during Chinese New Year and other holidays and celebrations. Chinese people may wear red clothing, decorate with red lanterns and envelopes, and give children red envelopes with money for good fortune in the new year.
The red color brings luck because of the following symbolic meanings:
| Meaning | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Energy | In color psychology, red evokes excitement and stimulates energy and passion. |
| Happiness | Red represents joy, celebration and cheer. |
| Success | The vibrant hue captures attention and conveys confidence. |
| Prosperity | In Chinese culture, red symbolizes prosperity and wealth. |
| Ward off evil | Red is believed to ward off bad energy and evil spirits. |
In Indian culture, red is the color of the goddess Lakshmi who represents wealth, prosperity and fertility. Brides traditionally wear red dresses and use red symbols in their weddings for good luck. The red bindi dot worn between the eyebrows is said to retain energy and strengthen concentration.
In Western cultures, the red color is often associated with love. However, it has also signified luck and success, which is why it became the color of gambling establishments. Think red carpet at celebrity events and awards shows. Casinos and lotteries frequently use red decor, and red is considered a lucky number in roulette.
Green
The color green is commonly thought to bring good luck in many cultures. In some places, it is believed that wearing green will attract good fortune and monetary success. Some possible reasons why green is considered lucky:
| Meaning | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Nature | Green represents the natural world and evokes feelings of health, renewal and life energy. |
| Harmony | The color promotes balance, peace and patience. |
| Prosperity | Plants sprouting green represent growth. The color is linked to ideas of wealth and abundance. |
| Envy | “Green with envy” suggests the hue provokes desire for what others have. |
In China, jade is said to attract wealth and success. It is green in color and offers protection. Chinese people exchange green objects or wear jade jewelry to spread good fortune.
The hamsa hand amulet common in the Middle East features an eye embedded in the palm to ward off harm. It is often in green and placed in homes, cars and keychains.
In Western cultures, green is linked to recycling and environmental health. The eco-friendly color inspires renewal and self-improvement through mindful living. It also represents ambition, growth and perseverance to achieve goals.
Gold
Gold is universally associated with wealth and prosperity. The shiny, precious metal has an aura of luxury, opulence and prestige across cultures. Reasons why gold is considered lucky:
| Meaning | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Rarity | Gold’s exclusivity increases its value. Finding it brings immense luck. |
| Divinity | Gold symbolizes the sun and higher powers in some cultures. It has divine associations. |
| Success | Gold trophies and medals represent the pinnacle of competitive achievements. |
| Enlightenment | The metal’s radiance signifies inner light, understanding and wisdom. |
In China gold ornaments, like coins and necklaces, are worn to invite prosperity. Gold is a traditional Chinese New Year color that signifies wealth in the coming year.
Ancient Egyptians associated gold with their sun god, Ra. Gold represented his power and immortality. Only royalty and the gods were permitted to wear it.
In Hindu mythology, the goddess Lakshmi and god Ganesha both radiate golden light. Devotees use gold ornaments, flowers and decor to please them during Diwali and other festivities.
Gold coins are used worldwide as a symbol of welcome, celebration, honor and virtue. Many cultures associate finding gold with extraordinary luck.
Yellow
The bright, sunny color yellow is associated with luck and happiness in many cultures. Reasons why yellow may be considered fortunate:
| Meaning | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Optimism | Yellow lightens hearts and infuses cheer. The color inspires hope and positivity. |
| Clarity | Shades of yellow promote mental clarity, intellect and communication. |
| Attention | Vibrant yellows capture attention in design. Products in yellow may sell better. |
| Divinity | Gods in Greek mythology radiated yellow light. It links to higher powers. |
In ancient Egypt, yellow represented gold, which was associated with the sun god, Ra. Yellow also symbolized everlasting life. Egyptians buried their royalty in gold masks.
In Chinese culture, yellow signifies royalty and prosperity. Emperors exclusively wore yellow, which represented the earth element and the center of the universe.
In India, yellow or sandalwood paste is applied to foreheads to grant divine blessings. Yellow and gold flowers like marigolds are used as temple offerings.
Across many cultures, yellow butterflies represent hope, change and inspiration. If a yellow butterfly lands on you, it’s considered a sign of luck.
White
The color white commonly signifies purity, clarity and peace. But in some cultures, white objects are also considered lucky. Reasons white may be linked to good fortune:
| Meaning | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Clarity | White clears clutter and distractions from the mind. It enables focus. |
| Beginnings | White evokes a clean slate and new starts. Weddings feature white dresses. |
| Divinity | Gods and angels glow white in mythologies worldwide. White inspires virtue. |
| Simplicity | White gifts are viewed as classic, elegant and thoughtful. |
In China, white symbolizes mourning and misfortune. But it is the color of wedding dresses, as white represents purity and rebirth. Brides also carry white flowers.
Across Europe and America, white doves represent peace, love and the soul. Seeing one is considered a sign of blessing and luck.
In Vietnam, white is the color of deities. People wear white on Tet, the lunar new year, and exchange white flowers called Hoa Mai.
In Western weddings, white veils, gowns, cakes and decor represent innocence and new beginnings. Brides aim for “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.”
Blue
Blue has many symbolic associations with protection, tranquility and divination. Hence, shades of blue are thought to attract good luck in cultures worldwide. Reasons blue is seen as fortunate:
| Meaning | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Calm | Blue has a soothing effect on the mind and emotions. It offers inner peace. |
| Wisdom | Dark blue inspires depth in perspective. Light blue enhances communication. |
| Divinity | Gods are depicted with blue skin or aura in Hinduism and ancient Egypt. |
| Protection | Amulets and charms in shades of blue guard against evil eye. |
In the Middle East, people commonly wear blue beads or eye charms to symbolize the protective “evil eye.” Blue scarves are tied to newborn babies for safety.
In China, blue decorations are prominently displayed at ancestor memorials and funerals to guide the soul into peace.
In India, blue sapphires symbolize wisdom and mental focus. Wearing or gifting the gem brings enlightenment.
Across cultures, blue eyes are considered rare and unique. People compliment each other’s “beautiful blue eyes” as a show of admiration.
Conclusion
When searching for a bit of luck, there are certain colors you may turn to for their widely accepted lucky symbolism. Red promotes passion and prosperity. Green inspires growth and harmony. Gold signifies wealth and spiritual influence. Yellow lightens the mood and attracts attention. White provides clarity and new beginnings. Blue offers protection and inner peace.
While there is no guarantee that wearing or decorating with these colors will bring good fortune, surrounding yourself with uplifting hues and their positive meanings certainly won’t hurt as you go about your day seeking success in work, love and life.
