The Color Black Psychology & Meaning

Photo by Alexander Jawfox on Unsplash.   The color black is powerful, sexy, and sophisticated. Long associated with darkness, mystery, and the unknown, black has the power to arouse deep emotions. Its history dates back to the Aztecs, who prized it as the color of war. Let's take a deeper look at the meaning and psychology of this compelling color.  

The Meaning of the Color Black

I can think of no other color that stimulates equally powerful positive and negative associations. On the negative side, black conjures notions of dark magic, villainy, war, evil, and death. In the west, the color black represents grief and mourning, some of the hardest emotions for westerners to endure. It also represents rebellion. Teenagers wear black to distance themselves from their parents and establish their independence. Civil rights groups use it to forcefully express their distaste for public policies that denigrate minority groups. (source) As the absence of light, this color offers concealment for the most heinous of acts. Evil reigns under the cover of darkness. Villains dress in black so they can slink away in the shadows. Yet, under the cloak of darkness other elements arise - mystery and the unknown. Here we see this dark shade take on new meanings. As a color of mystique, black conjures elegance, sophistication, and sexual prowess. It is associated with strength, authority, and power. Black lends an air of authority and intelligence to those who wear it. It symbolizes prestige, formality, and importance. With so many associations, it will come as no surprise that the color black has a profound effect on the psyche.   Black pebbles by Ganapathy Kumar on Unsplash  

The Psychology of the Color Black

The color black has an incredible impact on our emotions. It can spark fear or respect. Wearing black, especially formal black, can elicit a sense of self-confidence and importance. It speaks to potentials and possibilities, power and authority. (source) On the other hand, it can produce sadness, depression, angst, and even fear. It harbors secrets, holds information close to the vest, and creates a sense of insecurity for those who are at its mercy. (source) For those who wear it with integrity and leadership, black conveys self-control, self-discipline, and even protection. Indeed, the color black can evoke feelings of safety and covering. In Feng Shui, black relates to water, promoting serenity, creating mystery, and promising power. (source) Used as an accent color, black provides a sense of order and elegance that soothes and comforts. (source) The color black also absorbs negative energy. In fact, it really absorbs both negative and positive energies, creating a neutrality that is refreshing during stressful times.    

Wearing Black Gemstone Jewelry

I recommend wearing black gemstone jewelry to remind yourself to step up in your authority. To invite neutrality during difficult conversations and situations. To tap into your own elegance, sophistication, and mystery. My favorite black gemstones are black diamonds, black coral, and black onyx. Tune in next time for a rundown on what each of these black beauties has to offer you. ~Angela Magnotti Andrews