Periwinkle: The Serene Blend of Blue and Violet
Periwinkle is a captivating hue that sits comfortably between the blue and violet families. Known for its soft, airy quality, this color is often described as a pastel purple-blue or a pale tint of purple-blue within the Munsell color system—a standardized system used to describe colors based on hue, value, and chroma.
The name itself is derived from the lesser periwinkle, also known as the myrtle herb (Vinca minor), which produces delicate flowers in this exact shade.
Key Facts
- Origin: Named after the Vinca minor flower.
- Alternative Names: Also referred to as lavender blue or light blue violet.
- First English Record: The term was first recorded as a color name in 1922.
- Primary Associations: Serenity, peacefulness, femininity, and comfort.
The Symbolism and Psychology of Periwinkle
Beyond its visual appeal, periwinkle carries deep emotional and symbolic meanings. Because of its cool tones, it is frequently associated with serenity, calmness, winter, and ice. It evokes a sense of stillness and peace.
In a more sentimental context, the color is used to symbolize womanhood and the blossoming of friendships. It is also linked to everlasting love and the preservation of sentimental memories, making it a popular choice for expressing tenderness and comfort.
Technical Color Specifications
For designers and digital artists, achieving the exact shade of periwinkle requires specific color coordinates. According to the ISCC–NBS descriptor, periwinkle is classified as a "very light purplish blue."
| System | Value |
|---|---|
| Hex Triplet | #CCCCFF |
| sRGB (r, g, b) | (204, 204, 255) |
| HSV (h, s, v) | (240°, 20%, 100%) |
| CIELCh uv (L, C, h) | (84, 42, 266°) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the name periwinkle come from?
The color is named after the lesser periwinkle or myrtle herb, scientifically known as Vinca minor, which features flowers of this specific hue.
What are other names for periwinkle?
Periwinkle is also commonly called lavender blue or light blue violet.
What does the color periwinkle symbolize?
It symbolizes serenity, calmness, femininity, and comfort, as well as everlasting love, womanhood, and blossoming friendships.
When was periwinkle first used as a color name in English?
The first recorded use of periwinkle as a color name in the English language occurred in 1922.
What is the hex code for periwinkle?
The hex triplet for periwinkle is #CCCCFF.