COLOUR SYMBOLISM
Time and tradition have created strong, symbolic color connections. For example, we associate red with festivity, blue with distinction, purple with dignity, green with nature, yellow with sunshine, pink with health, and white with purity. Context also gives color specific meaning - we know that red means stop, and green means go.
Colors are also linked with the expression of emotions and attitudes. Red is associated with love or hatred, blue with despair (the "blues)’, yellow with cowardice (that "yellow streak"), green with jealousy (the "green eye"), and white with peace.
Yellow
There are many shades and tones of yellow and gold, providing numerous associations, notably with objects and effects found in nature, including light, the sun, and flowers. The heraldic use of yellow to indicate honor and loyalty is contradicted by later connections with cowardice. The brightest color in the spectrum, yellow is seen before other colors when placed against black. This combination is often used as a warning sign - in nature, by insects such as bees, and to signal hazards in industrial situations.
Green
Green symbolizes nature, freshness, growth, and fertility, as signified by plants, seedlings, grass, and vegetables. In heraldry, green indicates growth and hope. Green is also associated with naivete and jealousy. It conveys a sense of restfulness and adds balance to interiors.
Blue
Blue has a strong association with the sky and the sea. Although a cold and retractive color, blue is said to have a pacifying influence. Blue also symbolizes peace, faith, contemplation, truth, and heaven. In heraldry, blue is used to indicate piety and sincerity.
Violet
Violets and purples are rich colors and often convey wealth, extravagance, and preciousness. In heraldry, purple depicts royalty. Other connections include knowledge, old age, magic, and enchantment.
Red
Red is a strong color that advances from a surface, and is thought to be arousing. Symbolically red is associated with fire, love, joy, passion, and energy. As an heraldic colour, red embodies courage and zeal. It is also connected with revolution, blood and anger.
Orange
Orange is present in nature, in the setting sun, fall leaves, fruit, and flowers. Orange stands out well and creates a sense of warmth. In heraldry, orange is a sign of strength and endurance.
Black
Black often symbolizes death, darkness, and evil. In nature, however, pure black is rare. Many insects appear black, but in fact contain numerous colors. Black is found in minerals and ores. In heraldry, it is the symbol of grief.
White
White is sometimes described as an absence of color, although it does appear in different shades - for example, with a faint yellow or blue tinge. It is most strongly linked with light, which allows us to see all of the other colors. White symbolizes innocence and in heraldry depicts faith and purity.
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