Color has always held a special significance in our lives, representing emotions, seasons, beauty, and even identity.
While names like Ruby, Rose, and Violet are widely loved for their vibrant connotations, there are many other hues and shades that are equally captivating and rich with meaning.
These unique color-inspired names offer a fresh twist on traditional choices while still evoking a sense of brightness, beauty, and individuality.
Here are 17 colorful names beyond the basics that bring a distinctive flair.
1. Azure
Origin: French, meaning “sky blue.”
Azure evokes the endless blue of the sky or the sea. This name is associated with clarity, calmness, and expansiveness, making it a perfect choice for those who seek a peaceful yet powerful name. The deep and vivid tone is timeless yet modern.
Notable Person: Azure Ray, musical artist.
2. Saffron
Origin: Old French, meaning “yellow-orange spice.”
Saffron, a warm and exotic shade of yellow-orange, is also the name of a precious spice derived from the saffron flower. It symbolizes warmth, richness, and a sense of luxury. This unique color name is perfect for someone with a radiant, bold spirit.
Notable Person: Saffron Burrows, actress.
3. Emerald
Origin: Greek, meaning “green gemstone.”
Emerald is a deep, vivid green, often associated with nature, renewal, and harmony. It conjures images of lush forests, serene landscapes, and precious gemstones. The name embodies elegance and timeless beauty, often linked to growth and vitality.
Notable Person: Emerald Fennell, actress and director.
4. Indigo
Origin: Greek, meaning “from India” or “Indian dye.”
Indigo is a rich, deep shade of blue, named after the indigo dye historically imported from India. The name suggests mystery, creativity, and intuition. It carries a unique blend of coolness and depth, making it an intriguing choice.
Notable Person: Indigo Girls, American folk music duo.
5. Carmine
Origin: Italian, meaning “crimson red.”
Carmine is a rich, bold red that’s often used to describe deep, vivid pigments. It’s a name that embodies passion, power, and beauty. With its strong association to both nature and art, Carmine evokes a sense of boldness and uniqueness.
Notable Person: Carmine Gallo, communications expert.
6. Topaz
Origin: Sanskrit, meaning “fire.”
Named after the gemstone, Topaz is a warm, golden yellow color that symbolizes energy, strength, and enlightenment. The name is both precious and fiery, evoking the bright and vibrant tones of one of the world’s most beloved gemstones.
Notable Person: Topaz McGarrigle, actor.
7. Periwinkle
Origin: English, meaning “a pale blue with hints of lavender.”
Periwinkle is a soft, soothing blend of blue and purple, evoking the delicate beauty of flowers and nature. It’s a whimsical name that brings to mind calm skies, peaceful gardens, and serene settings. Its lighthearted and gentle nature makes it a unique and charming name choice.
Notable Person: Periwinkle, character from Blue’s Clues.
8. Scarlet
Origin: Old French, meaning “bright red.”
Scarlet is a rich, intense red associated with boldness, courage, and passion. This name has historical ties to royalty and aristocracy, symbolizing strength and confidence. It brings to mind vivid sunsets and passionate love, making it both dramatic and timeless.
Notable Person: Scarlet Johansson, actress.
9. Amethyst
Origin: Greek, meaning “not intoxicated.”
Amethyst is a beautiful purple gemstone known for its calming and healing properties. The color represents peace, spirituality, and balance. It’s an elegant and somewhat mystical name, perfect for someone with a deep, thoughtful nature.
Notable Person: Amethyst Realm, British TV personality.
10. Cobalt
Origin: German, referring to the element cobalt (a bluish-gray color).
Cobalt is a vibrant, striking shade of blue associated with both the element and the artistic world, as cobalt blue pigment is widely used in painting. It’s a name that exudes creativity, energy, and an artistic flair.
Notable Person: Cobalt (band), music artist.
11. Ivory
Origin: Latin, meaning “ivory (from elephant tusks).”
Ivory is a soft, off-white color that represents purity, elegance, and sophistication. The name is gentle yet refined, evoking the grace of nature and the beauty of fine art. It’s timeless and chic, often associated with luxury and beauty.
Notable Person: Ivory Aquino, actress.
12. Onyx
Origin: Greek, meaning “claw” or “fingernail” (named for the black gemstone).
Onyx is a striking black gemstone that symbolizes strength, protection, and grounding. The name carries a sense of mystery and depth, with its dark, sleek hue often associated with sophistication and resilience.
Notable Person: Onyx, American rapper.
13. Garnet
Origin: Middle English, meaning “dark red gemstone.”
Garnet is a rich, deep red gemstone, often associated with vitality and passion. The name suggests energy, strength, and warmth, much like the gemstone itself. It’s a vibrant, bold name that feels both classic and distinctive.
Notable Person: Garnet, character from Steven Universe.
14. Magenta
Origin: Italian, named after the color of the magenta dye.
Magenta is a vibrant pink-purple color that represents creativity, individuality, and uniqueness. The name has a modern and energetic vibe, often associated with bold, artistic expression. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for a name that stands out.
Notable Person: Magenta Devine, British television presenter.
15. Coral
Origin: Latin, meaning “coral” (marine organism).
Coral is a warm, pinkish-orange color that evokes the beauty of the sea and marine life. It symbolizes vitality, nature, and beauty. The name Coral has a vintage charm, offering a soft and feminine feel while still feeling fresh and contemporary.
Notable Person: Coral Browne, actress.
16. Burgundy
Origin: French, referring to the color of the Burgundy wine.
Burgundy is a rich, deep red, named after the Burgundy wine region in France. It evokes elegance, sophistication, and refinement. The name is both classic and luxurious, ideal for someone who carries themselves with grace and poise.
Notable Person: Burgundy, character from The Nanny.
17. Lilac
Origin: English, referring to the flower and its color.
Lilac is a gentle blend of purple and pink, symbolizing youth, beauty, and romance. It’s a soft and feminine color that evokes feelings of spring and renewal. The name Lilac is both delicate and sweet, perfect for someone with a gentle and artistic nature.
Notable Person: Lilac, character in The Chronicles of Narnia.