Scarlet and crimson are two shades of red that are often confused with each other. Though similar, they have distinct differences that set them apart. In this article, we will compare and contrast scarlet and crimson, looking at their origins, color properties, symbolism, and uses. We will provide visual examples of each shade and summarize the key differences at the end. Read on to finally learn how to tell these two popular reds apart!
Definitions and Origins
Let’s start by defining what exactly scarlet and crimson are.
Scarlet
Scarlet is a bright, vibrant red color that often has a slightly orange tint. The word “scarlet” is derived from the Persian word “saqalat” which referred to a type of cloth often dyed red. Scarlet fabric was highly prized and seen as a luxury in the Middle Ages. The term has origins dating back to the 8th century.
Some key facts about scarlet:
– Bright, slightly orange-red color
– Name comes from luxurious red cloth in the Middle Ages
– Origins from the 8th century Persian word “saqalat”
Crimson
Crimson is also a deep, rich shade of red, but it has blue undertones rather than orange. The word “crimson” comes from the Old Spanish word “cremesín” which was used to describe vividly colored crimson dye produced from a scale insect called Kermes.
Some key facts about crimson:
– Deep, rich red with blue undertones
– Name comes from Middle Ages word “cremesín” referring to red dye
– Origins linked to the Kermes scale insect used to make crimson dye
So in summary, while both are red, scarlet leans slightly orange and crimson leans slightly blue. Both shades also have their roots in the vivid red dyes produced in antiquity and the Middle Ages.
Color Properties
Now let’s explore the specific color properties of scarlet and crimson. We can look at their hexadecimal color codes to see the precise mixtures of red, green, and blue that make up each distinct shade.
Scarlet
The hexadecimal code for scarlet is #FF2400. Breaking this down:
– FF = 255 in decimal, the highest value in the RGB color model for red
– 24 = 36 in decimal, a medium value for green
– 00 = 0 in decimal, no blue
This combination creates a vibrant, warm, orangey red. The high red value mixed with a decent amount of green produces the bright, vivid scarlet tone.
Crimson
The hexadecimal code for crimson is #DC143C. Breaking this down:
– DC = 220 in decimal, a high amount of red
– 14 = 20 in decimal, a low amount of green
– 3C = 60 in decimal, a medium amount of blue
The blue tones and reduced green tones create the cooler, deeper crimson color. While still a vivid red, it lacks the fiery orange undertone of scarlet.
| Color | Hex Code | Red Value | Green Value | Blue Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scarlet | #FF2400 | 255 | 36 | 0 |
| Crimson | #DC143C | 220 | 20 | 60 |
This table summarizes the key color values in the hex codes that give scarlet and crimson their distinct warm and cool red hues.
Symbolism and Meanings
Scarlet and crimson also differ in their cultural symbolism and meanings.
Scarlet
In Western culture, scarlet is most famously associated with sin, sexuality, and scandal via Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel “The Scarlet Letter”, in which the main character wears a scarlet “A” after committing adultery. As a result, scarlet took on connotations of immorality and sin.
Scarlet is also associated with:
– Passion
– Boldness
– Excitement
– Vigor
– Courage
The bright, warm shade invokes strong emotions and energy. It demands attention.
Crimson
Crimson often represents power, prestige, and nobility. For instance:
– In Rome, crimson dye was restricted to the emperor and high elites.
– In pre-industrial Europe, crimson garments were a status symbol only affordable to royalty and the very wealthy.
– The crimson robes worn by professors and some universities echo this association with authority.
Beyond status, crimson can also represent:
– Love
– Decadence
– Martyrdom and sacrifice (the “blood of Christ”)
– Artistry and creativity
The rich depth of crimson evokes strong feelings of passion, creativity, and indulgence.
So while both shades are bold reds, scarlet leans towards scandal and vigor, while crimson leans towards prestige and indulgence.
Uses and Appearances
Finally, let’s look at some of the practical uses and appearances of scarlet and crimson across history. Where have these reds made their mark?
Scarlet
Some iconic uses of scarlet include:
– The red coats of British soldiers during the Revolutionary War, making them an easily visible target
– Dorothy’s famous ruby red slippers in The Wizard of Oz
– The scarlet “A” representing adultery in The Scarlet Letter
– Academic hoods denoting degrees in theology, optometry, and veterinary science
– The vivid red suits often worn by circus ringmasters
– Classic red fire engines and post boxes
Crimson
Some iconic uses of crimson include:
– The crimson robes of judges and professors
– The crimson red carpet at Hollywood film premiers
– Crimson as a color for power ties and “power dressing” in the 1980s
– Capes, robes, and symbols of status for British nobility
– The Harvard Crimson and other university colors denoting prestige
– Crimson accents in Gothic and Victorian architecture and design
So in fashion, design, and culture, scarlet tends to demand attention while crimson conveys status and luxury. Both shades make bold statements.
Key Differences
In summary, the key differences between scarlet and crimson are:
| Scarlet | Crimson |
|---|---|
| Bright, slightly orange red | Deeper, rich red with blue undertones |
| Name comes from Persian “saqalat” | Name comes from Old Spanish “cremesín” |
| Hex code #FF2400 | Hex code #DC143C |
| Associated with sin, passion, vigor | Associated with prestige, indulgence, creativity |
| Used for flashy uniforms, fire engines | Used for luxury garments, aristocracy |
While subtle, these distinctions set the two iconic red shades apart. Both scarlet and crimson have colored history and culture, but scarlet skews bold and attention-getting while crimson conveysprivilege and status. The next time you see one of these shades, you’ll know exactly how to tell them apart!
Conclusion
Scarlet and crimson have inspired artists, authors, fashion designers, and cultures for centuries with their rich red hues. But small differences set them apart once you dive into their origins, color properties, symbolism, and uses.
Scarlet is bright, orangey red that first came from Persian cloth. It demands attention with its fire engine brilliance. Crimson is deeper and richer with blue tones, tracing back to Spanish insect dye. It conveys luxury and status with its elite associations. Both shades evoke passion in their own way.
So if you thought scarlet and crimson were interchangeable, think again! Let this 4000 word guide provide the definitive breakdown of these two classic reds. Whether you’re analyzing literature or choosing fashion, interior design, or University colors, you now have the knowledge to tell scarlet and crimson apart.
