It is definitely a skill to be able to distinguish between different shades of the same color. For example, not everyone can spot crimson from scarlet — two shades of red amongst 20 other recognized shades.
Similarly, the colors teal and turquoise (shades of green) are also often interchangeably used, given how similar they are. Here’s everything you’d want to know about teal vs turquoise, what these colors are, and the variations between them.
What Is Teal?
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, teal is a greenish-blue color that is generally used while describing cyan. According to A Dictionary of Color, teal was first noted as a color in 1917.
Teal As a Color
Teal is best described as a shade that falls between medium and deep blue-green. The hexadecimal code for this color is #008080. Green and blue pigments are mixed on a white base to make teal.
This mixture can be further darkened using grey or black. In 1987, teal was included in the original group of 16 web colors that were defined in HTML.
Teal In Nature
The name “teal” is based on the Eurasian teal. This is a common freshwater duck with a blue-green stripe that starts at its eye and extends to the back of its head.
Teal In Culture
Amongst Tibetan monks, teal is representative of the infinite nature of the sea and sky. On the other hand, in Egyptian culture, it denotes honesty and faith.
You may have noticed that survivors of ovarian cancer generally use teal ribbons, especially during awareness campaigns. Interestingly, it has also been the default wallpaper of Windows 95 for a long time.
If teal is your favorite color, chances are you’re an independent and reliable individual who enjoys creativity and autonomy. The temperament of teal lovers is quite pleasant, and they are incredible at achieving a middle-ground.
However, you may also miss out on opportunities due to overthinking and a tendency to be a snob.
Teal Meaning
In the field of color psychology, teal promotes positive aspects like relaxation and rejuvenation. It is also symbolic of open communication and clarity.
While light teal represents consistent calm and a love for nature, dark teal denotes stability. This shade is always subtle and carries a certain elegance to it.
What Is Turquoise?
This color is a combination of blue and green that has a waxy, lustrous finish. The color was introduced around the 17th century. It originates from the French word “turques,” meaning “Turkish.”
It is lighter than teal. The hexadecimal code for turquoise is #40E0D0.
Turquoise In Nature
The name of this color is derived from an opaque bluish-green mineral that is considered an ornamental stone owing to its stunning hue. The mineral was introduced to Europe by Turkey, which explains its name.
The mineral is a hydrous phosphate of copper and aluminum.
Turquoise In Culture
Even though the green overpowers the blue in turquoise, people associate the latter with intellect, focus, and clear thinking.
Typically, turquoise gemstones are worn as good luck charms with protective properties; they save you from untimely or premature fatality.
Turquoise’s Meaning
This color is quite famous as it symbolizes stillness and serenity as well as emotional clarity and spiritual grounding. Given that the color is found in shallow seas, the feeling invoked while looking at the color is akin to gazing at the ocean.
The shade is considered feminine and is thus often worn on clothes or in jewelry during special occasions.
Key Differences Between Them
Here is a list of teal vs turquoise distinctions:
#1. Teal is a darker color than turquoise as it has higher levels of green pigment, while turquoise has a heavy concentration of blue.
#2. Teal is definitely brighter, while turquoise is subtle.
#3. Teal works best with colors such as bright white, ivory, and coral. It also looks great with metallic colors such as silver and gold, as well as pink. Turquoise pairs well with neutral tones and shades of grey. It also works with deep shades of pink, orange, and yellow.
#4. The word “teal” was inspired by a bird, while “turquoise” shares its name with a gemstone.
What Is the Similarity Between Teal and Turquoise?
Despite being two different shades of blue-green, teal and turquoise do have the same calming properties that clear any stresses and pave the way for honesty.
They are both shades of blue-green. These shades have further variations as well. For example, turquoise shades include light, medium, celeste, and dark.
A Few Parting Words
The right shade of color can make all the difference, even for seemingly simple things like painting your wall or choosing a dress. Given that teal and turquoise are very popular colors, knowing the variations between teal vs turquoise will also help you pick the perfect shade that compliments your surroundings.
