Royal blue and gold are two colors that are often used together and have come to represent luxury, wealth, and royalty over time. The rich, deep shade of royal blue conjures images of the vast evening sky or deep ocean waters. Gold, with its bright, shiny, metallic color, represents the sun, prosperity, and precious metals. When paired together, these two colors complement one another beautifully. In this article, we’ll explore the history and symbolism behind royal blue and gold.
The History of Royal Blue
Royal blue got its name because it was used frequently by royal families and aristocracy. The first recorded use of royal blue as a color name in English was in 1810. Before synthetic dyes were invented, blue dyes were very difficult and expensive to produce. The deep blue color could only be achieved using minerals like lapis lazuli, making it prohibitively expensive for common people. As a result, royal blue clothing was reserved for the highest nobility who could afford such luxury.
Royal blue grew in popularity when Queen Victoria wore it often, including for her wedding and her Diamond Jubilee celebration. It became closely associated with British culture and Britain’s global power and empire. Other European royal families also embraced the color as a symbol of privilege and aristocracy. The vibrant blue set royalty apart and conveyed their status and wealth.
The History of Gold
Gold has been valued for its beauty and rarity for thousands of years across many cultures. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves in gold jewelry to display their wealth and status. Gold was also associated with the sun and represented power and eternal life. In ancient China, gold symbolized wealth, prosperity, and good fortune.
The discovery of gold in the Americas during the 16th century led to an influx of wealth in Europe. Gold played a major role in the Spanish conquest of Latin America as the conquistadors relentlessly sought the precious metal. The period became known as the “Golden Age” as Spanish royalty flaunted their newfound riches.
Later, the California Gold Rush of the mid-1800s in the United States further cemented the association between gold and affluence. Gold jewelry, coins, and accents became a way for people to display their success and excessive wealth. The vibrant, shiny color of gold continues to represent luxury and privilege around the world.
Royal Blue and Gold Together
When paired together, the colors royal blue and gold perfectly complement each other to symbolize royalty, prosperity, and luxury. The eye-catching metallic sheen of gold against the deep blue creates an opulent look. As a result, many royal families and aristocrats wore the color combination as a display of status and wealth.
| Country | Use of Royal Blue and Gold |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | The British royal family wears royal blue accented with gold buttons and trim on ceremonial uniforms and formalwear. |
| Thailand | Thailand’s king wears royal blue and gold royal garments for ceremonies and special occasions. |
| Japan | The Japanese imperial family wears blue and gold kimonos and robes for coronation ceremonies and weddings. |
Royalty and high nobility would often wear ermine fur trimming dyed blue paired with gold accents, buttons, and jewelry. The blue and gold coat of arms indicates a connection to esteemed royal lineages. Banners, flags, and crests displaying blue and gold symbolized royal authority.
The combination also frequently appears in crowns, scepters, thrones, and other items symbolic of rulership and empire across many cultures:
| Item | Blue and Gold Examples |
|---|---|
| Crowns | The Imperial State Crown of the United Kingdom features blue jewels and gold frame. |
| Thrones | The Coronation Chair in Westminster Abbey has blue and gold detailing. |
| Scepters | The Scepter of Charles V, symbol of the Holy Roman Emperor, has blue gems and gold shaft. |
| Heraldry | The coat of arms of Spain includes a blue background and golden castle and lion. |
Even today, you’ll see modern royalty and heads of state incorporating royal blue and gold in their formal attire and ceremonial dress. For example, Queen Elizabeth II frequently wears bright blue dresses and suits with gold buttons and accessories. The royal blue conveys her position and authority.
Beyond royalty, blue and gold are the official colors of prestigious universities like Yale University and the University of California system. The colors add an air of prestige and exclusivity. You’ll also see blue and gold used in elegant home decor, at galas and award ceremonies, and for branding luxury products.
Royal Blue Meaning
On its own, royal blue today represents:
– Leadership and authority – As the color of kings and queens, it conveys a sense of rulership. It commands respect.
– Prestige and luxury – The rich shade implies exclusivity, style, and elegance.
– Trust and dignity – Royal blue is sincere and reserved. It’s a stable, reliable color.
– Intelligence and wisdom – As the color of top universities, it signifies high learning.
– Mystery and power – The dark blue has an air of the unknown. It feels powerful and strong.
Royal blue offers a calming depth while still feeling luxurious. It’s a flexible color that works well in a variety of contexts from corporate branding to creative endeavors.
Gold Meaning
On its own, the color gold symbolizes:
– Wealth and prosperity – Gold communicates affluence and extravagance. It implies value and richness.
– Success and achievement – Gold medals and trophies represent the pinnacle of success across fields.
– Wisdom and knowledge – Golden light bulbs signify ideas and brilliance. Gold often decorates diplomas and certificates.
– Spirituality and divinity – Gold halos and icons are common in religious artwork and decoration.
– Optimism and positivity – The cheerful color inspires upbeat feelings and motivation.
– Luxury and quality – Gold details elevate the perceived value and status of objects. It signifies premium quality.
Gold conveys a sense of warmth, positivity, and abundance. It instantly catches the eye and uplifts the spirit. The association with wealth and status makes it a popular color from designer fashion to upscale brand marketing.
When to Use Royal Blue and Gold
The classic color pairing of royal blue and gold works wonderfully in the following situations:
– Academic settings – For diplomas, seals, banners, and regalia at schools, universities, and ceremonies. The colors add sophistication.
– Formal events – For galas, fundraisers, awards shows, and society events. Blue and gold sets an elegant, upscale mood.
– Corporate branding – To communicate trust, stability, and professionalism for companies. The colors look crisp and authoritative.
– Royal and patriotic symbols – For coats of arms, flags, crests, and other national symbols of identity and heritage.
– Luxury products – Leather goods, jewelry, cars, and high-end packaging often feature blue and gold accents.
– Website design – For a clean, professional look that subtly implies expertise and reliability.
The colors are flexible enough to also work in more creative, modern contexts for event décor, product design, marketing materials, and more.
Conclusion
The rich history of royal blue and gold make this color pairing a timeless symbol of authority, prosperity, and luxury. The two colors perfectly balance and complement each other – the depth of blue tempered by the brilliance of gold. Whether worn by queens or displayed on university seals, the iconic combination instantly conveys a sense of prestige. So next time you see those regal colors of blue and gold, appreciate the symbolism and meaning behind this powerful pair.
