Gold is a unique color that can be mimicked by shades of yellow, orange, brown and even green. When searching for colors similar to gold, consider metallic or shiny shades that give off a radiant glow. In this article, we’ll explore the wide range of colors that can be used to achieve a gold-like appearance.
Warm yellows
Some of the closest colors to gold come from the yellow family. Warm shades of yellow contain touches of orange and evoke the shining sun. When selecting yellow hues that resemble gold, aim for tones that are more saturated or intense rather than pale or pastel.
Deep goldenrod is a popular yellow that mimics the look of gold. This bold, warm color hits the same tone as a gold bar. Other warm yellows to consider are gamboge, saffron, corn, honey, and sunflower. These shades appear vibrant like molten gold.
To create a metallic gold effect, mix yellow with silver or aluminum paints. You can also add gold mica powder to bright yellow paint. This gives a glistening finish.
| Yellow Color Name | Hex Code |
|---|---|
| Deep Goldenrod | #B8860B |
| Gamboge | #E49B0F |
| Saffron | #F4C430 |
| Corn | #FBEC5D |
| Honey | #F0E68C |
Orange and amber tones
Shades of orange and amber also resemble the color of gold. These warm, sunny tones remind us of gold nuggets and autumn leaves.
Bright orange colors like mikado orange, tiger’s eye, and dark orange copy the boldness of gold. Mixing orange with a touch of brown brings in amber hues like copper and rust. Amber is metallic like gold but a bit muted.
Some rich orange options include cadmium orange, vermilion, carrot orange, and pumpkin. Opal and topaz are two amber colors with a golden glow.
| Orange/Amber Color Name | Hex Code |
|---|---|
| Mikado Orange | #FF7500 |
| Tiger’s Eye | #E47833 |
| Dark Orange | #FF8C00 |
| Copper | #B87333 |
| Rust | #B7410E |
| Opal | #B784A7 |
Earthy browns and olives
While we tend to think of gold as bright and shiny, earthy brown and olive shades can also emulate the precious metal. These muted, natural colors act as softer versions of gold.
Light tan, beige, and khaki take on a stony, mineral-like quality reminiscent of gold ore. Darker browns like copper, bronze and rust reflect the color of tarnished gold. Green olives and mosses capture the muted side of gold.
When using brown or olive paints, add some shimmery gold mica powder. This helps mimic the metallic luminescence of gold.
| Brown/Olive Color Name | Hex Code |
|---|---|
| Khaki | #C3B091 |
| Beige | #F5F5DC |
| Bronze | #CD7F32 |
| Olive Green | #BAB86C |
| Golden Moss | #F09F1C |
Metallic mixes
Combining gold paint with silver, copper or bronze paints allows you to create custom metallic colors. Start with a gold base and add small amounts of the other paints until you achieve the desired hue.
These mixtures create unique neutrals that pick up different undertones. A gold-silver blend pushes towards platinum or steel shades. Gold-copper makes ruddy, rose golds. Gold-bronze creates antique, brass-like finishes.
You can also mix gold acrylic paint with metallic medium. Use a ratio of one part paint to four parts medium for optimal shine. This gives any color a glistening gold radiance.
Shades of green
Believe it or not, certain shades of green can replicate the look of gold. These complex greens have yellow, brown and gray mixed in to mute the intensity. Green is the opposite of red on the color wheel, and red is gold’s complementary color, which allows green to act as an unexpected neutral.
Some greenish colors that appear metallic or mineral-like include moss green, artichoke, fern, sagebrush and seaweed. Olive green is probably the closest green to natural gold. Mixing a vibrant yellow-green with brown yields a very close match.
| Green Color Name | Hex Code |
|---|---|
| Moss Green | #8A9A5B |
| Fern | #63B76C |
| Sagebrush | #BCAE6E |
| Olive | #6E750E |
How to use gold copycat colors
Now that we’ve covered a wide spectrum of colors that can stand in for gold, how do you put them to use? Here are some tips:
– Add a touch of shimmer. Look for metallic paints or gilding waxes to apply over top other colors. This gives any hue that radiant gold look.
– Boost intensity. Colors appear more gold-like when saturated instead of pale. Deepen tones by adding a little bit of black.
– Create contrast. Use these gold-mimic shades against colors like black, white or navy. This helps them stand out more.
– Consider context. Yellows can feel juvenile, while olives and browns are more mature. Pick an appropriate shade for your project.
– Mix and match. Layer or blend a couple shades together for added depth and interest. This makes color more dynamic.
With the huge variety of colors that can double for gold, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for any application, whether it’s graphic design, home decor, crafting, fashion or another creative outlet. Have fun and experiment until you unearth your own custom gold color.
Conclusion
Gold is a one-of-a-kind color, but many shades can pull off a similar look. Warm yellows, oranges and ambers reflect gold’s brightness and intensity. Earthy browns and olives capture its natural, muted side. Even some greens share gold’s complexity. Mixing metallic paints creates custom neutrals that appear luminous and mineral-like. With so many options, you can handpick colors for any project that need a quality resembling real gold.
