Old Amethyst
Behr · MQ5-3
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The Analysis
Old Amethyst is a muted, mid-tone grey with subtle violet undertones. Because it has a low Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 24.18, it absorbs a significant amount of light, which tends to make a room feel cozy and intimate rather than large or bright.
It functions best as a sophisticated backdrop in living rooms or bedrooms. It is too heavy for a primary color in small, windowless spaces, but it serves as a high-end, neutral foundation for larger, well-lit rooms.
LRV 24History & Origin
This shade leans into a modern, transitional aesthetic rather than a specific period look. Its complex, blended tone feels contemporary and avoids the starkness of traditional greys.
How to Use It
Pair this color with warm walnut wood tones to soften the grey and matte black metal hardware for a sharp, clean contrast. It performs best in rooms with ample natural light to prevent the violet undertones from looking muddy.
The Mood
This color feels grounded and restful, making it an excellent choice for areas where you want to wind down. It doesn’t provide an energy boost, but its stable, muted quality creates a sense of calm consistency throughout the day.
Colour harmonies
Complementary
Opposite on the colour wheel — bold, high-contrast pairings. Use for a feature wall or furniture you want to command attention.
Analogous
Neighbouring hues — cohesive and calm, great for layered schemes that feel collected rather than matched.
Split complementary
Near-opposites for strong contrast with a little less tension than a pure complement. A favourite of interior designers.
Triadic
Three evenly spaced hues — balanced, vibrant, and versatile. Keep one dominant and use the others sparingly.
Tetradic (square)
Four hues in a square on the wheel — rich, dynamic palettes. Best when one colour leads and the others accent.
Monochromatic
Dark, mid, and light steps on the same hue — a failsafe gradient for trim, walls, and accents without shifting colour family.
Add harmony palette to a room
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Brand Matches
Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.
Lighting
See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.
- Natural
- Morning
- Afternoon
- Evening
- Overcast
- 2700K
- 3500K
- 4000K
- 5500K