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Caviar

Sherwin-Williams · SW6990

The Analysis

Caviar is a true, saturated black that absorbs almost all light, resulting in an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of just 2.99. Because it reflects so little light, it will make a room feel significantly smaller and more intimate by blurring the boundaries of the walls.

This color is best used as a bold accent or a tool to create high contrast. Avoid using it as a main wall color in small rooms unless you are intentionally going for a moody, dramatic aesthetic.

LRV 3

History & Origin

While dark interiors have roots in moody Victorian libraries, Caviar is a modern, clean black. It lacks the blue or brown undertones found in older, softer charcoals, making it a staple of current contemporary design.

Undertoneneutral
FamilyNeutral

How to Use It

It excels on millwork, cabinetry, or a single feature wall to draw the eye. Pair it with warm, natural wood tones or brushed brass hardware to prevent the room from feeling too clinical or cold.

The Mood

Living with Caviar provides a grounding, restful effect rather than an energizing one. It creates a cocoon-like environment that feels sophisticated and distraction-free, perfect for spaces where you want to signal that it is time to slow down.

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.

Brand Matches

Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.

  • Black Magic

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6991

  • Tricorn Black

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6258

  • Tomcat

    Valspar · V114-3

  • Noir

    Valspar · 4009-2

  • Space Black

    Benjamin Moore · 2119-10

  • Jet Black

    Benjamin Moore · 2120-10

Lighting

See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.

  • Natural