We’ve all heard that colour evokes emotion. Both the colour itself – which is well known to inspire feelings – as well as the particular intensity or vibrancy of that shade. And global brands use it to their advantage, to convey aspects of their personality or voice. Jerry Cao from Creative Bloq has written an interesting piece on the psychology of colour, and the emotions it evokes in us.

This idea of colour affecting emotion goes well beyond big corporate brands; to the colours we choose for our home, clothes and jewellery. Pantone is famous for selecting a colour of the year, which inspires fashion and home accessories around the world. But what emotions or reactions is it likely to evoke in us? 

The 2015 Pantone Colour of the Year 

In 2015, the experts at Pantone chose Marsala (Pantone 18-1438) ... which would “enrich our mind, body and soul, exuding confidence and stability”. What emotion does it evoke in you?

Marsala is designed to make us think more of rich wine tones than “chicken” or “tikka”. I like the sound of any of those ideas!

The 2015 Pantone colour of the year inspired our Pout bracelet – featuring rich chocolaty red marsala garnet beads with modern stainless steel accents. I prefer to use semi-precious stones like these whenever I can, as they have a weight and variation in tone that show off the beauty in nature. It’s a timeless look ... an elegant choice for your special message or medical alert bracelet. 

Calming colours for 2016 

So what does Pantone have in store for 2016? Well, they’ve actually chosen two colours – Rose Quartz (Pantone 13-1520) and Serenity (Pantone 15-3919). By selecting two soothing, airy pastels, Pantone has a message for us all: Chill out.

Who couldn’t use more of that in their day?

Read more about the inspiration behind Pantone’s choice. And it’s already hit the streets.

Christina Binkley from the Wall Street Journal shows how quickly Rose Quartz and Serenity have been picked up by leading home and fashion icons.

We have our own rose quartz bracelet that features a range of soft natural pinks - a beautiful way to showcase your personal message or name. Or a bracelet that’s bang on-trend to communicate your medical alert information. We think that these pink semi-precious beads are a simple and beautiful way to bring some peace to your life.

Why not pair it with soft blue nails and you can show off both trends. “Wearing both of these hues at once is like returning to the weightlessness of your youth”, says Leatrice Eiseman, Pantone Color Institute’s Executive Director. “The combination of a cool and a warm colour brings a sense of balance”. It’s a look that works for all seasons – pairing well with cosy jumpers in neutral colours – and takes you through the summer by adding interest to white sundresses and loose light fabrics.

Will you be wearing Rose Quartz or Serenity for 2016? Pantone suggests a broad palette of 10 colours to take you through the spring. But we’d love to hear more about your favourites! Share online or comment below to let us know what colour is speaking to you this year ...

Stay connected for all the latest news and tips about personalised jewellery. Sign up for our newsletter now and be one of the first to discover the best-looking personalised jewellery, useful tips, and special offers. Plus, you'll get a free printable wallet card for you emergency contact information.