Sure, neutral colors like beige and gray are an unquestionably classic choice when it comes to painting walls, ceilings, and even furniture—but sometimes a rich, jewel-tone paint color is exactly what a space needs. Fortunately, we’re living in a world where color drenching is wholly embraced and maximalist tendencies are in favor, and jewel tones seamlessly fit into these design stories.
If you’ve been toying with the idea of trying a gorgeous, gemstone-inspired hue, take your inspiration from these interior designer favorites. Tried-and-true, these jewel-tone paint colors are the ones experts turn to when they’re looking to saturate a space with color; be it in a small way (think: an accent wall) or with bold strokes of allover color.
Deep Sea Dive by Sherwin Williams
Courtesy of Benjamin Moore
Deep Sea Dive is a rich teal that strikes the perfect balance of blue and green. “It is highly saturated and striking, adding interest to any room,” says interior designer Margarita Bravo. To help pull out some of those warm tones, she recommends pairing this jewel-tone paint color with brass. It’ll elevate the color and create a polished, intentional finish.
Dark Burgundy by Benjamin Moore
Courtesy of Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Moore’s Dark Burgundy is a statement within itself. “Characterized as bold and feminine, it adds unexpected warmth in a space,” Bravo says. “Our favorite thing to do with this color is combining it with even more jewel tones, such as a deep emerald green. Laying multiple jewel tones together feels especially good in cozy rooms, like bedrooms.”
Ripe Olive by Sherwin-Williams
Courtesy of Sherwin Williams
Ripe Olive by Sherwin-Williams is a warm and inviting shade, ushering a touch of nature into your home. “I recommend using this color in living rooms or kitchens to create an earthy and welcoming atmosphere,” says Karla Alvarado, a renovations developer and the owner of HomeNovate. “Pair it with soft grays—like [Sherwin-Williams’s] Pewter or Taupe Tone—for a balanced look that’s both modern and cozy.”
Blue by Benjamin Moore
Courtesy of Benjamin Moore
For a pure, jewel-tone azure, set your sights on the aptly named Benjamin Moore Blue. “Blues are often misunderstood as being sad and moody,” says Laura Morris, a Feng Shui expert and author of Mindful Living. “But sapphire and indigo blues evoke a sense of mystery and wonder.”
“They are also connected with knowledge and spiritual growth in Feng Shui,” adds Morris, who often recommends this paint color to clients who want to create a space to explore personal growth like reading, meditation, and yoga.
Copper Mountain by Sherwin-Williams
Courtesy of Sherwin Williams
Whether you’re inspired by Southwestern colorways or are drawn to shades of orange or red, you may find a winner in Copper Mountain by Sherwin-Williams. “It holds a special place in my heart after a recent project in a quirky loft apartment,” says Joyce Huston, lead interior designer at Decorilla. “The client, a young artist, wanted something bold yet warm for her combined living and workspace. When we stumbled upon Copper Mountain, it was an instant hit.”
What makes this particular shade a standout? Its “chameleon-like quality,” according to Huston. “In the morning light, it glows like a newly minted penny; while in the evening it deepens to a rich, earthy tone that’s incredibly cozy.”
Jade Green by Benjamin Moore
Courtesy of Benjamin Moore
Just like the stone it’s named after, Benjamin Moore’s Jade Green is a vibrant, earthy color that inspires feelings of abundance, joy, and prosperity. “Mimic the energy of nature by pairing this jade green in a powder room with light-colored stone finishes to create revitalizing energy,” says Morris.
Bamboozle by Farrow & Ball
Farrow and Ball
A deep, rich green color with just a twist of blue, Bamboozle by Farrow & Ball is a truly unique jewel tone. “What sets it apart is its incredible depth and complexity; it seems to shift and change depending on the light, creating an intriguing, almost mysterious atmosphere,” Huston says.
“It pairs beautifully with brass or gold accents, which bring out its warmth. For a bold, nature inspired look, combine it with rich wood tones and plenty of indoor plants.”
New York State of Mind by Benjamin Moore
Courtesy of Benjamin Moore
The sapphire gemstone has long inspired creative-minded people, including those tasked with making a home look and feel both inviting and beautiful. For a deep blue hue, consider Benjamin Moore’s New York State of Mind. “[It] has the ability to make a bold statement, but can just as easily skew more subdued and create a calming and serene environment,” notes interior designer Alexandra Peck.
“I personally love this color for cabinetry. Dark blue is such a classic color for kitchens and is a fun pop of color applied to a bathroom vanity.” She’s also taken a super-saturated approach to utilizing this jewel-tone paint color by applying it to walls, wood trim, and ceilings.
Emerald by Behr
Courtesy of Behr
Gorgeous green tones, like Behr’s Emerald, can evoke the feeling of being enveloped in nature. “Emerald is wonderful because it can be easily combined with natural materials like wood and stone,” notes Evelina Juzėnaitė, principal interior designer at Planner 5D.
“You can choose these combinations for different interior styles, from classic to industrial, because emerald exudes [both] elegance… and a sense of calm.” She especially likes this color for bedrooms and workspaces since it can help create a serene space and encourage focus.
Smouldering Red by Benjamin Moore
Courtesy of Benjamin Moore
“Overall, red is a powerful and auspicious color. It can be both protective and energizing,” says Morris. Nodding to garnet, Benjamin Moore’s Smouldering Red features warm undertones of orange and brown.
“This shade of red has both depth and fire to it,” Morris explains. “If you are looking to make a bold statement this is a great red to paint your front door. It balances out and pairs well with pale gray and black exterior finishes.”
Onyx by Glidden
Courtesy of Gilden
Glidden’s Onyx is a jewel-tone paint color that also feels a bit like a neutral—which means it’s a timeless hue that’ll forever remain in favor. “Yes, some may associate it with drama and darkness, but for me it’s mysterious, sophisticated, and deep,” explains Juzėnaitė. “It’s beautiful for any style. ”
She adds, “Onyx goes well with different colors, but it’s best used together with lighter, more neutral colors and materials like metal, wood, gold, and stone.”
Etruscan by Benjamin Moore
Courtesy of Benjamin Moore
If you like the idea of using a jewel-tone paint color in your home, but still aren’t quite sold on a super vibrant option, this color might just be your safe space.
“Having worked on several projects with Etruscan [by Benjamin Moore], I can confidently say it’s a designer’s dream,” says Huston. “This rich, earthy red has a truly captivating depth. It’s warm and inviting, yet sophisticated enough to make a strong statement in any space.” She especially likes this color in living rooms and libraries since it evokes a cozy, enveloping atmosphere.
