Burgundy red is a deep, rich shade of red that takes its name from the Burgundy wine region in France. It’s a popular, classic color that evokes luxury, elegance, and sophistication. But what exactly is the technical definition of burgundy red and what is its color number?
In color theory, each shade is defined by a specific set of numbers that indicate values for the hue, saturation, and brightness of the color. These numerical values allow for precise reproduction of the shade across different mediums. So to truly understand burgundy red, we need to look at its place in the color spectrum and its corresponding numerical values.
The Color Spectrum
All colors can be located on the visible spectrum of light, which ranges from violet at one end through blues, greens, yellows, oranges, and finally red at the other end. The hue of a color refers to where it falls along this spectrum. Reds, for example, are located toward the end of the spectrum.
Within the red family, there are many possible shades ranging from bright scarlet to deeper crimson and maroon hues. Burgundy sits on the darker, deeper end of the red spectrum, though not quite as dark as a true maroon. Its hue is balanced and rich without leaning too far into purple or brown tones.
The RGB and Hex Values for Burgundy Red
In the RGB or red, green, blue color model, all colors are produced by mixing varying levels of the three primary colors of light. The RGB values for a shade indicate the intensity of each of those components on a scale from 0 (none) to 255 (maximum).
Burgundy red has an R value between 115 and 125, a G value between 15 and 30, and a B value between 35 and 55. This produces a deep crimson-red tone.
The hexadecimal (hex) value is related to the RGB value and expresses the color using hexadecimal numbers from 00 to FF. The hex value for burgundy red is typically #800020 or #880018.
The CMYK Values for Burgundy Red
While RGB deals with mixing light, the CMYK or cyan, magenta, yellow, black color model works by mixing pigments. CMYK is used for print publishing.
The CMYK values for burgundy red are:
| Cyan | 30-40% |
| Magenta | 90-100% |
| Yellow | 35-45% |
| Black | 45-55% |
This shows that burgundy red contains a high proportion of magenta pigment, with less cyan, yellow, and black.
Burgundy Red on the Pantone Matching System
Many designers reference the Pantone Matching System (PMS) which standardizes specific formulated colors for design work.
Within the Pantone standards, there are a few shades that meet the definition of a burgundy red:
| PMS 200 | The true burgundy red |
| PMS 201 | A slightly brighter, more vivid burgundy |
| PMS 2026 | A warmer, red-orange tinged burgundy |
The original PMS 200 is closest to what most people visualize when they think of classic burgundy. It has a muted earthy quality, relaxing warmth, and a touch of subtle spice.
Key Terminology for Describing Burgundy Red
Since color is subjective, it can help to use descriptive terms to convey the precise tone and feel of a burgundy red hue. Some key words include:
– Rich
– Luxurious
– Elegant
– Classic
– Refined
– Earthy
– Relaxed
– Warm
– Spicy
– Crimson
– Dark red
– Wine-colored
Comparing it to wine, spices, velvet, or fall leaves can also help create the right mental image of this sophisticated shade.
Burgundy Red in Culture and History
Burgundy red has a long history of evoking luxury and prestige going back to the opulent fashions of 17th and 18th century French nobility. It was also commonly associated with clergy robes and ecclesiastical garb. This gave it an air of refined religious devotion.
In pop culture, burgundy red remains a staple color for conveying elegance and seriousness. It’s commonly seen in formal attire, awards ceremony fashions, and fine dining interior design. Deep burgundy accents add a sense of gravitas and importance wherever used.
Uses for Burgundy Red
Thanks to its dignified yet warm emotional associations, burgundy red works wonderfully in many design applications:
– Packaging – Burgundy makes an ideal color for premium or luxury product packaging, from wine and confections to cosmetics and fashion items. It stands out on shelves while conveying quality.
– Logos – Many corporate logos leverage burgundy’s bold, luxe vibe in combination with gold or black accents. It’s ideal for law, finance, hospitality, academia, and other prestigious fields.
– Rooms – As an accent wall or used in furniture, curtains, carpets, and other decor, burgundy lends a refined, classical feel to living spaces, offices, and event venues.
– Clothing – In fashion, few colors convey formality and polish like a deep burgundy suit, dress, or accessory. It’s perfect for galas, ceremonies, and stylish evening wear.
– Websites – Burgundy provides a clean, upscale look when used for website headers, backgrounds, banners, and button accents. It works for many industries and styles.
Conclusion
Burgundy red sits firmly between crimson and maroon on the color spectrum, exuding class, luxury, and timeless sophistication. Its exact shade is defined by RGB, CMYK, and Pantone values that allow consistent reproduction in design work and printing. But the technical numbers only tell part of the story. Burgundy also carries a rich set of historical and cultural associations that give this deep red hue an air of refined elegance wherever it is used. Understanding the technical and descriptive details of the color provides the full picture of what makes burgundy red such an iconic shade.