What is “Black”?
Black is the color of objects that do not emit or reflect light in the visible spectrum. Black is often used as a representation of darkness, either literal or metaphorical. Black is also commonly associated with death, fear, and evil. In many cultures, black is considered to be a positive color, representing strength, power, and determination. In other cultures, black is seen as a negative color, associated with sadness, loss, and death. Black can also be used to create a sense of mystery or suspense. Whether viewed as positive or negative, black is a complex and often contradictory color that can evoke a wide range of emotions.
Black Light
In the physical world, black is the absorption of all colors. Black light, sometimes called ultraviolet light, is invisible to the human eye but can be seen using special equipment. This type of light is produced by black-light lamps, which contain phosphors that emit ultraviolet radiation. Black light is often used for detection purposes, such as detecting fraudulent documents or identifying certain types of stains. It can also be used for entertainment purposes, such as black-light bowling or black-light mini-golf. While black light does exist, it is not a color in the traditional sense.
Black Pigment
Black pigments are made from a variety of materials, including carbon black, iron oxide, and titanium dioxide. Carbon black is the most common black pigment, and it is made from soot or lamp black. Iron oxide black pigments are made from iron ore, and they are typically used in paints and inks. Titanium dioxide black pigments are made from titanium dioxide, and they are used in a variety of products, including cosmetics and sunscreens. Black pigments are also used in tattoo inks, printer inks, and some types of advertising.
Where does the word black come from?
The word black has a long and complex history. It is thought to derive from the Old English word “blæc”, which in turn is thought to be related to the Proto-Germanic word “blakaz”. This word originally referred to the color of soot or charcoal, and it wasn’t until the 14th century that it came to be associated with the color we now think of as black. The word black can also be traced back to the Latin word nigrum, which also referred to the color of soot or charcoal. This Latin word is thought to be related to the Sanskrit word “nigru”, which also referred to the color black. The word black has also been used as a metaphor for darkness, evil, and death throughout history.
VALUES
Technical Information about the Color Black – #000000
black is an iconic color that we often associate with boldness and strength, but black is technically the absence of color. In terms of RGB (Red Green Blue) values, black is represented by the values 0, 0, and 0, meaning there is no light being reflected from a black surface. This helps further explain why black absorbs heat so efficiently – because it’s not reflecting any energy away. While black may not have all the vibrant shades of other colors on the spectrum, its ability to evoke emotion and be used practically for both fashion and technology makes black a timeless classic.
All Color Value Conversions
| VALUE | CSS | |
|---|---|---|
| HEX VALUES | 000000 | #000000 |
| RGB DECIMALS | 0, 0, 0 | rgb(0,0,0) |
| RGB PERCENTAGES | 0, 0, 0 | rgb(0%, 0%, 0%) |
| CMYK | 0, 0, 0, 100 | |
| HSL | 0°, 0, 0 | hsl(0°, 0%, 0%) |
| HSV (OR HSB) | 0°, 0, 0 | |
| WEB SAFE VALUES | 000000 | #000000 |
| CIE-LAB | 0, 0, 0 | |
| XYZ | 0, 0, 0 | |
| XYY | NaN, NaN, 0 | |
| CIE-LCH | 0, 0, 0 | |
| CIE-LUV | 0, NaN, NaN | |
| HUNTER-LAB | 0, NaN, NaN | |
| BINARY | 00000000, 00000000, 00000000 |
The Color Black in Nature
Black Animals
Black animals have long been associated with mystery, superstition, and even evil. In many cultures, black cats are considered to be unlucky, black dogs are often seen as menacing and black snakes are a bad omen. However, black animals can also be beautiful and Graceful creatures. For example, black horses are often considered to be powerful and noble animals. In China, black is the color of water and symbolizes good luck. As a result, black animals occupy an important place in many cultures and traditions.
Black feathers are often associated with darkness and mystery. In most bird species, black feathers are actually quite rare. However, there are a few notable exceptions, including the blackbird, raven, and crow. Black feathers play an important role in the survival of these birds. They help to camouflage the birds in their natural environment and protect them from predators. In addition, black feathers are often used in mating displays. For example, male blackbirds use their black plumage to attract mates. The color black is also thought to be linked with power and strength, making black feathers a popular choice for ceremonial dress and war paint. Whatever the reason, black feathers always make a striking impression.
Black Plants and Flowers
Black plants are not really black. The black color is due to the presence of anthocyanin, which is a water-soluble vacuolar pigment that is found in plants. Anthocyanin is responsible for the blue, violet, or red colors in flowers and fruits. In black plants, the anthocyanin accumulation is so high that it gives the plant a black color. Black plants are often grown as ornamental plants because of their black coloration. The black color also helps to absorb more heat, which can be beneficial in cold climates. Some black plants that are commonly grown include black tulips, black daffodils, and black roses.
While black flowers may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of floral arrangements, they can actually add a unique and beautiful touch to any bouquet or garden. There are a variety of black flowers available, from roses to lilies, and each one has its own distinct look. black flowers tend to have a dramatic and elegant look, and they can be used to create stunning contrast in a arrangement. If you’re looking for something a little different, black flowers are definitely worth considering.
Black Minerals and Substances
Most minerals are black or very dark in color. This is because they are typically made up of dark-colored elements, such as carbon, iron, and manganese. Black minerals are often found in metamorphic rocks, which are rocks that have been altered by heat and pressure. Some examples of black minerals include anthracite coal, black mica, and black tourmaline. Although they may not be the most visually striking of minerals, black minerals play an important role in the Earth’s crust.
Some of the most popular black gemstones include onyx, black diamond, and black sapphire. Black onyx is a type of quartz that is characterized by its dark black color. It is often used in jewelry and can be polished to a high shine. Black or “ebony” diamonds are the rarest type of diamond and are prized for their unique color. Black sapphire is a type of corundum that is also characterized by its dark black color.
The Color Black in World Cultures
The Color Black in Europe
In Europe, black has been considered unlucky for centuries. Even today, many people consider black to be an ominous color. In the Middle Ages, black was the color of mourning. If someone in the family died, everyone would wear black clothes for months or even years. Black was also the color of witches and devils, and it was believed that black cats brought bad luck. Even though black is no longer considered to be such an unlucky color, it is still associated with death and darkness. When we think of black, we often think of night, Halloween, and horror movies.
The black evil eye is a curse that is believed to be caused by a malicious glare. It is said that the black evil eye can cause misfortune, illness, and even death. The black evil eye is particularly feared in Spanish-speaking countries, where it is known as the mal de ojo. There are many ways to ward off the black evil eye, such as wearing a black bracelet or carrying a black charm. Some people also believe that spitting three times will help to break the curse. Ultimately, the black evil eye is a powerful symbol of negative energy, and it should be avoided at all costs.
The Color Black in Asia
The color black has a long and rich history in Asia. For many cultures, black is associated with strength, power, and authority. In China, black is the color of water and symbolizes wisdom and success. In Japan, black is associated with mystery and is often used in magic and spells. In India, black is the color of protection and is often used in rituals and ceremonies. Whether it is worn as a sign of status or used for its protective qualities, black plays an important role in Asian culture.
The Color Black in Latin America
In many Latin American countries, black is seen as a symbol of strength and power. For example, in Mexico, black is the color of the Aztec god of war. In Peru, black is associated with the Inca sun god, who was believed to bring good luck and prosperity. In Brazil, black is the color of wealth and success. Despite its negative connotations in the West, black is generally seen as a positive color in Latin America.
In many Native American traditions, black butterflies are actually seen as symbols of transformation and rebirth. This is because the black color represents the fertile earth from which new life is born. As a result, black butterflies can be seen as a reminder that even after times of darkness and sorrow, new life and hope can always emerge.
The Color Black in the Middle East
In the Middle East, black has long been associated with strength, power, and authority. It is the color of the night sky, and the fertile soils of the Nile River Valley. black is also the traditional color of mourning and is often worn by widows and those in mourning. In recent years, black has become increasingly popular as a fashion color, particularly among young women. While black is still seen as a symbol of mourning in some parts of the region, it is also now viewed as a stylish and modern color choice.
The Color Black in Africa
The color black has a long and rich history in Africa. For centuries, black has been associated with power, strength, and prestige. In some cultures, black is also seen as a symbol of death and fertility. Today, the color black is still widely used in African art and design. Whether it is used to represent the continent’s abundant natural resources or to pay tribute to its traditional culture, black plays an important role in African identity.
The Color Black in Religion and Philosophy
The Color Black in Christianity
The color black has a long and complex history in Christianity. Early on, black was often associated with evil or sin. In the Middle Ages, black became the color of mourning and death. And in more recent times, black has been used to represent mystery and authority. In the Bible, black is sometimes used to describe God’s majesty and glory. And in many religious paintings and sculptures, black is used to symbolize connection to the divine. Today, the meaning of black in Christianity is open to interpretation. For some, it is still a color of death and mourning. For others, it represents strength, power, and authority.
A black wedding dress is a sign of rebellion. It’s a way to break from the traditional white gown and make a statement. For some, it represents strength and power. Others see it as a way to be different or unique. Whatever the reason, black wedding dresses are becoming more and more popular. While they may not be traditional, they are definitely eye-catching. If you’re looking to make a statement on your big day, a black wedding dress may be the perfect choice for you.
The Color Black in Islam
One of the most striking features of Islamic religious garb is the predominance of the color black. While black is often associated with darkness and negativity, in Islam it is seen as a color of strength and power. Black is also seen as a sign of modesty, and many Muslim women choose to wear black clothing in order to avoid drawing attention to themselves. In addition, black is considered to be a color of mystery and spirituality, and it is often used in Islamic art and architecture to create a sense of awe and reverence. Ultimately, the use of black in Islamic culture is diverse and complex, reflecting the multi-layered nature of the religion itself.
The Color Black in Buddhism
Black is the color of sorrow and suffering in Buddhism. It is associated with the dark night of the soul, when we are lost in grief or pain. Black is also the color of renunciation, when we give up our attachment to worldly things. In Tibetan Buddhism, black is the color of Mahakala, the black wrathful deity who protects us from our enemies. In Japan, black is the color of ritual purity and sincerity. Black robes are worn by monks and priests in many traditions, symbolizing their commitment to renunciation and simplicity. Even in Buddhist countries where other colors are more popular, black is still used in religious art and architecture. Black occupies an important place in Buddhism.
The Color Black in Hinduism
In Hinduism, black is often seen as a color of mourning and grief. It is associated with karma, death, and the cycle of reincarnation. Black is also seen as a color of protection, symbolizing the blackness of night and the power of darkness. In some traditions, black is also associated with the goddess Kali, who is considered to be both powerful and dangerous. Kali is often depicted wearing black clothing and jewelry, and her name literally means “black one.” As such, black can represent both the light and the dark aspects of human nature. Ultimately, black is a complex color with many different meanings in Hinduism.
What does black symbolise in psychology?
Dreams involving black snakes are often interpreted as being symbolic of fear, darkness, and the unknown. The black snake is often seen as a representation of our subconscious minds, and it can be seen as a warning to us about something that we may be afraid of. In some cultures, black snakes are also considered to be bad omens, and they are often associated with death and destruction. However, not all black snake dreams are negative in nature. In some cases, they can represent new beginnings or positive changes. It is important to remember that dream interpretation is subjective, and what a black snake means to one person may not be the same for another. If you have a black snake dream, it is best to take some time to reflect on what the dream may mean for you.
Notable Shades of the Color Black
Jet Black
Jet is a type of black lignite, a precursor to coal, and is mostly found in England and Spain. It has been used as a gemstone for centuries, and its black color is caused by the high levels of carbon present in the stone. Jet is typically polished into beads or other small pieces, and it has been used in mourning jewelry since Victorian times. Today, it is still considered to be a symbol of grief and loss, but it is also used in a variety of fashion and costume jewelry. Jet is a relatively soft stone, so it needs to be treated with care to avoid scratching or chipping.
Ebony
Ebony is a black wood prized for its darkness and hardness. It’s been used for centuries to make furniture, musical instruments, and other objects where a deep black color is desired. There are several different types of ebony, all with varying degrees of blackness. The most popular type of ebony is African blackwood, which is found in Senegal, Mali, and Nigeria. Other types of ebony include Macassar ebony from Indonesia and Gaboon ebony from Gabon. Ebony is typically black with a few dark brown streaks, but some pieces can be nearly solid black. The wood is very dense and heavy, making it difficult to work with but also giving it a high degree of luster and polish. Ebony is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a touch of luxury to their home.
Charcoal
Charcoal is made by burning wood or other organic matter, and the resulting material is black or very dark in color. Charcoal is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of purposes, from grilling food to filtering water. In art, charcoal is a popular medium because it can create rich, deep black tones. It is also popular in cosmetics, as it can be used to create smoky eyes or other dramatic looks.
Onyx
Onyx is a black stone that has been used throughout history for a variety of purposes. It is commonly used in jewelry and as a decoration on homes and buildings. Onyx is made up of different shades of black, which can give it a striped or variegated appearance. It is typically a very hard stone, making it ideal for use in durable applications. However, onyx can also be brittle and susceptible to scratches. Despite its black color, onyx is not particularly absorbent, making it resistant to stains. For this reason, it is often used as flooring in high-traffic areas. Overall, onyx is a beautiful and versatile stone that has a variety of uses.
Pitch Black
Pitch is a black, sticky substance that is derived from petroleum. It is commonly used in roofing and other construction projects. Pitch is black in color because it contains high levels of carbon. When pitch is exposed to air, it becomes hard and brittle. However, when it is warmed, it becomes softer and more pliable. Pitch is also flammable, and can be burned to produce light or heat.