Vermilion

Vermilion (#E34234) is a true red with a vibrant character. It holds its own as a focal accent, carrying visual weight without tipping into neon territory. Its HSL profile (5°, 76%, 55%) places it in the highly saturated band at a mid lightness. Best used in small doses, like logos, CTAs, focus rings, or highlight text, where its saturation becomes a feature rather than noise. For a confident two-color system, pair it with its complementary cyan. For something softer, pull in its analogous neighbors on either side of the wheel. Mercury sulfide, ground from cinnabar. The warm red of Pompeiian frescoes, Chinese lacquerware, and medieval manuscripts — superseded only in the 20th century by cadmium reds.

Harmonies

Related Colors