The color that is between green and blue on the visible spectrum is most commonly referred to as teal or aqua. This greenish-blue hue has many other names as well, depending on the specific shade and context.
The Origin of the Term Teal
The first recorded use of the word “teal” in the English language was in the early 17th century. It was derived from the Middle English word “tele” which referred to a Eurasian duck known for its iridescent greenish-blue plumage. This duck species is known as the common teal (Anas crecca). Over time, the name of the duck itself became associated with its distinctive greenish-blue coloration.
Using the name of an animal or object to refer to a color was common in the development of the English language. Other examples include “salmon”, “violet” (the flower), and “lime” (the fruit). So the word “teal” followed this same linguistic pattern, taking its name from the teal duck.
Characteristics of the Color Teal
Teal is considered to fall in the spectrum of colors between green and blue. It is created by mixing a medium brightness of green with a medium brightness of blue. The specific proportions may vary based on the desired shade.
Here are some key characteristics of teal as a color:
- Hue – Ranges from 160 to 180 degrees on the color wheel
- Saturation – Moderate to high saturation
- Brightness – Medium brightness
- Hex triplet – Most commonly #008080
- RGB values – Ranges from (0, 128, 128) to (0, 255, 255)
Teal gets its greenish cast from having more green than blue in its RGB values. However, it is still considered a “cool” color due to the stronger presence of blue over red.
Variations of Teal
There are many shades of teal along the spectrum from green to blue. Here are some of the most common variations:
| Name | Hex | RGB |
|---|---|---|
| Green teal | #008080 | (0, 128, 128) |
| Blue teal | #008081 | (0, 128, 129) |
| Bright teal | #00FFFF | (0, 255, 255) |
| Dark teal | #00827F | (0, 130, 127) |
| Yellow teal | #90C987 | (144, 201, 135) |
As you move closer toward green hues, the color becomes more emerald and jewel-toned. As you move closer to blue, the color becomes more cerulean. Brightness also shifts the appearance, with brighter teals having a neon quality.
The Name Aqua
In addition to teal, “aqua” is another common term used to refer to colors in the greenish-blue range. The word aqua comes from the Latin term for water. This is likely because it resembles the hue of shallow seawater.
Aqua differs from teal in that it tends to have a slightly more greenish tint. It is generally considered closer to cyan on the color wheel than true teal. Similar to teal, however, there are many variations of aqua depending on the specific shade.
Here are some characteristics of aqua as a color:
- Hue – Ranges from 160 to 180 degrees
- Saturation – Medium to high
- Brightness – Medium to high
- Hex triplet – #00FFFF
- RGB values – (0, 255, 255)
The aqua color became prominently associated with the Art Deco movement in the early 20th century. It was frequently used in graphic design and architecture of that period.
Teal vs. Aqua in Marketing
In marketing and branding, the terms “teal” and “aqua” are sometimes used interchangeably. However, there can be some important connotative differences between the two:
- Teal – Seen as more sophisticated, intuitive, insightful
- Aqua – Considered more relaxing, refreshing, friendly
Of course, the specific shade also makes a difference. Darker teals and aquas will come across as more formal and elegant. Pastel or neon versions feel more casual and playful.
Here are some example brand meanings:
| Company | Color | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Starbucks | Aqua green | Calming, rejuvenating, natural |
| Tiffany & Co. | Robin egg blue | Luxe, exclusive, sophisticated |
| Microsoft | Aqua | Innovative, refreshing, friendly |
Psychology of Greenish Blues
Like other colors, teal and aqua can provoke psychological reactions. Here are some of the effects greenish blues are believed to have:
- Calming, reduces stress and anxiety
- Clean, crisp, refreshing feeling
- Balance of logic and intuition
- Creativity from the blend of warm and cool
- Feminine and nurturing
- Connection to natural water elements
Brighter teals and aquas create more energizing effects. Dark or muted shades are soothing and stabilizing. That makes teal a versatile color for promoting different moods.
Use Cases for Teal and Aqua
Some of the popular uses for teal and aqua tones include:
- Web design – creates a refreshing alternative to standard blues
- Logos and branding – establishes a stylish, unique visual identity
- Home decor – from accent walls to furniture and textiles
- Packaging – pops on shelves yet feels natural
- Fashion – complements many skin tones and white clothing
Teal and aqua work well for painting walls, as the greenish tint makes rooms feel more energized than a true blue. The colors also integrate nicely into landscaping and exterior paint colors.
Teal and Aqua in Nature
While teal and aqua are less common naturally than greens and blues, there are a few examples of these colors in the living world:
- Peacock feathers
- Tropical fish like bettas and parrotfish
- Seafoam created by ocean waves
- Colbalt blue tarantulas
- Mint-green tree frogs
- Blue-green algae
- Variegated blue hosta plants
- Some minerals like turquoise
Finding these colors in animals and minerals make teal and aqua feel crisp and natural to our senses. They have an innate balance and harmony.
Conclusion
Teal and aqua exist in that beautiful intersection between green and blue. They take the relaxing qualities of blue and infuse them with the renewal of green for an uplifting color experience. With many subtle shades to choose from, these greenish blues offer versatile options for any use where a touch of vibrancy and color is desired.