Crimson red and scarlet red are two shades of red that are often confused with one another. Though similar, there are distinct differences between these two popular red colors. In this article, we will explore the history, definitions, and distinctions between crimson and scarlet. We’ll look at how they are created, where their names come from, how they are used, and how to tell them apart. With some key details and direct comparisons, you’ll learn exactly what sets crimson and scarlet reds apart.
Definitions of Crimson vs Scarlet
Let’s start by defining exactly what crimson and scarlet mean.
Crimson is a strong, deep red color that has a blue undertone. It is often associated with the color of blood and is commonly used to represent passion, power, vigor, and excitement. The name comes from the Old Spanish word “cremesín” which was derived from the Arabic word “qirmiz” referring to the Kermes insect used to produce a deep red dye.
Scarlet is also a deep red color, but it has a slightly more orange undertone. Scarlet is a bright, rich red. The name comes from the Persian word “saqirlat” which referred to the brightly colored cloth dyed with Kermes insect larvae. It is associated with fire, strength, and vibrancy.
So in summary:
| Crimson | Deep red with a blue undertone |
| Scarlet | Bright, deep red with an orange undertone |
While subtle, these definitional differences in hue and shade are what set these two popular reds apart.
The History of Crimson vs Scarlet
Crimson and scarlet have been used and valued as vibrant red colors since ancient times. Here is a brief history of these two shades:
– Ancient civilizations in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe independently prized deep reds extracted from the Kermes vermilio insect. This insect was used to produce a red dye called Kermes.
– The first recorded use of “crimson” as a color name in English was in 1513. It was referred to as “cramoysin” in the 14th century.
– The first recorded use of “scarlet” as a color name in English was in the early 16th century. It was sometimes spelled as “scarlat” and “scarlette”.
– Luxury crimson and scarlet cloth was produced during the Han Dynasty in China beginning around the 2nd century BC using complex methods of mordant dyeing.
– Crimson and scarlet dyes were popular in Persia, present-day Iran, as early as the 9th century BC where they were extracted from Kermes insects found on oak trees.
– Kermes dyes were brought to Europe from the Near East during the Middle Ages creating a thriving industry for deep red textile dyes.
So in summary, crimson and scarlet have been prized and produced for over 2000 years across the world. The names have evolved over time, but the vibrant red hues have long been valued.
How Crimson and Scarlet Colors Are Produced
Now that we’ve covered some historical background, let’s look at how crimson and scarlet are made so we can better understand their distinct properties.
Crimson
– Traditionally produced using Kermes dye derived from insects. This made it expensive and exclusive.
– Modern crimson is created by combining deep red with a slightly blue hue. The blue undertone differentiates it from plain red.
– To make a crimson paint or pigment, a cool blue pigment is generally mixed into a red base.
– Crimson works well for dye because the blue undertone gives it needed brightness on fabric.
– On computer displays and color systems like RGB models, crimson is made by mixing deep red with a smaller amount of blue light.
Scarlet
– Historically was made using the Kermes dye. The orange undertones came from the ingredients and mordanting techniques.
– Modern scarlet is made by combining a bright true red with a slight orange tint. The orange casts a warm glow.
– To make a scarlet paint or colorant, an orange or yellow pigment is added to a red base.
– The warm orange hue has made scarlet a popular color for textiles, especially given its brightness.
– In digital formats, scarlet is created by mixing mostly red with a smaller portion of green light to tint it orange.
So in summary, the different production methods result in crimson’s cooler blue undertone and scarlet’s warmer orange glow. This is what visually distinguishes them.
Distinguishing Between Crimson and Scarlet
Now that you understand the histories, definitions, and production methods, let’s look at some direct visual comparisons so you can easily distinguish crimson from scarlet.
Appearance
– Crimson appears as a deeper, darker red, while scarlet is brighter and more vivid.
– Scarlet looks more orange and crimson looks more blue when directly compared.
– Crimson is a cooler, shadier red. Scarlet is warmer and more vibrant.
Uses
– Crimson is traditionally associated with royalty, ambition, and richness. Scarlet is associated with passion, courage, and vibrancy.
– In fashion, crimson gives off elegance while scarlet makes a bold, lively statement.
– The University of Alabama and Harvard University use crimson as their school color, while Ohio State University and Indiana University use scarlet.
Color Mixing
– When blending paints, adding a small amount of blue to a red base will create crimson, while a touch of orange produces scarlet.
– On a computer screen with RGB color mixing, crimson has less green while scarlet has more green mixed in with the red base.
– The Hex codes differ with crimson as #DC143C and scarlet as #FF2400.
So in summary, crimson is a cooler, darker red that appears distinct next to the brighter, warmer scarlet. Looking at uses, color mixing, and their appearance together makes the contrast clear.
Key Comparisons
Let’s summarize the key differences between crimson and scarlet:
| Attribute | Crimson | Scarlet |
|---|---|---|
| Hue | Deep red with blue undertone | Bright red with orange undertone |
| Shade | Dark, deep | Vivid, bright |
| Temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Association | Richness, ambition, elegance | Vibrancy, passion, courage |
| Creation | Mix red with a bit of blue | Mix red with a touch of orange/yellow |
| Uses | University colors, posh fashion | Bold fashion, sports teams |
This table summarizes the subtle contrasts between the two colors. While both are in the red family, crimson and scarlet have unique profiles.
Conclusion
Crimson and scarlet are two classic shades of red that have been valued for thousands of years. But they are distinctly different colors.
Crimson is a dark, cool red with a blue undertone. It represents richness and elegance. Scarlet is brighter with a warm, orange glow. It embodies vibrancy and courage.
The history and production methods also set them apart, with crimson coming from a Spanish word for the Kermes insect dye. Understanding their unique histories and how they are produced helps explain why crimson and scarlet appear distinctly different despite similar red bases.
So next time you come across these two shades, you can easily tell crimson from scarlet by remembering their contrasting profiles. Crimson is dark and cool while scarlet is bright and warm. This colorful comparison highlights why these two red hues have their own names and identities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about crimson vs scarlet:
Is crimson or scarlet red darker?
Crimson is the darker, deeper shade of red compared to scarlet. Scarlet appears brighter and lighter.
Is crimson or scarlet red cooler?
Crimson is the cooler tone, with more blue undertones. Scarlet is a warmer variation of red, with more yellow/orange.
What is the exact definition of crimson?
Crimson is defined as a deep to vivid purplish or bluish red. It has a blue undertone that gives it a rich, deep tone.
What is the exact definition of scarlet?
Scarlet is defined as a vivid or bright reddish orange. It has an orange or yellowish tinge that provides vibrancy.
Why are they spelled differently?
Crimson and scarlet have evolved from completely different etymological roots. Crimson came through Spanish from the Arabic word for a dye. Scarlet has Middle English roots linking it to a famous deep red cloth produced in Medieval times.
What industries use each color?
Crimson is popular in higher education, politics, and posh branding. Scarlet is widely embraced in sports, fashion, and products targeting youth and vibrancy.
How do you make each color?
Crimson can be made by adding a small amount of blue to a red base to create its signature cool undertone. Scarlet involves adding yellow, orange, or a green tint to warm up the red.
Can people easily tell the difference?
Most people can instantly spot the difference when crimson and scarlet are placed side by side due to their contrasting hues. But the colors can be confused when seen individually.
