Cyan vs. Turquoise: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Cyan is a greenish-blue color, often used in color printing, while Turquoise is a blue-green color, resembling the gemstone of the same name.
Key Differences
Cyan is a primary color in the subtractive color model, used in color printing. It leans more towards green in a blue base. On the other hand, Turquoise is a secondary color that blends blue and green, but it tends more towards blue with a hint of green.
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Dec 02, 2023
In the RGB color model, Cyan is a mixture of equal parts green and blue light. It is bright and vibrant. In contrast, Turquoise has a softer, more subdued appearance with a higher blue component than green.
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Dec 02, 2023
The name Cyan comes from the Greek word 'kyanos', meaning dark blue. It is commonly associated with clarity and freshness. Turquoise, named after the gemstone, symbolizes calmness and wisdom, with a color that ranges from blue to green depending on the light.
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Dec 02, 2023
In web design and digital art, Cyan is often used to create a modern and clean look. It's a popular choice in tech and design industries. Turquoise, with its soothing and tranquil vibe, is frequently used in fashion, jewelry, and interior design for a serene effect.
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Cyan is a key color in the CMYK color model and is pivotal in color printing processes. Alternatively, Turquoise is more common in decorative arts and fashion, used for its aesthetic appeal and association with the precious turquoise stone.
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Dec 02, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Color Model
Primary in subtractive (CMYK) model
Secondary color, not primary in any color model
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Origin of Name
From Greek 'kyanos', meaning dark blue
Named after the turquoise gemstone
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Common Usage
In color printing, web design
In fashion, jewelry, interior design
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Color Composition
Equal mix of green and blue light in RGB
More blue than green
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Cyan and Turquoise Definitions
Turquoise
Interior design choice
They painted the room in calming turquoise.
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Cyan
RGB color model component
Cyan is created by mixing green and blue light.
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Turquoise
Symbol of tranquility
The turquoise hues in the painting evoked a sense of peace.
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Turquoise
A blue to blue-green mineral of aluminum and copper, mainly CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O, prized as a gemstone in its polished blue form.
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Cyan
A vibrant pale greenish-blue colour between blue and green in the visible spectrum; the complementary colour of red; the colour obtained by subtracting red from white light.
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Oct 19, 2023
Turquoise
(countable) A sky-blue, greenish-blue, or greenish-gray semi-precious gemstone.
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Turquoise
A hydrous phosphate of alumina containing a little copper; calaite. It has a blue, or bluish green, color, and usually occurs in reniform masses with a botryoidal surface.
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Oct 19, 2023
Turquoise
Having a fine light blue color, like that of choice mineral turquoise.
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Turquoise
A blue to gray green mineral consisting of copper aluminum phosphate; blue turquoise is valued as a gemstone
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Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What does turquoise symbolize?
Turquoise often symbolizes tranquility and wisdom.
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Dec 02, 2023
Is turquoise a natural color?
Yes, it's inspired by the color of the turquoise gemstone.
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Do cyan and turquoise look similar?
They are similar but have distinct green and blue balances.
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Dec 02, 2023
What industries use turquoise frequently?
Fashion, jewelry, and interior design often use turquoise.
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Dec 02, 2023
Does cyan lean more towards blue or green?
Cyan leans slightly more towards green.
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Is cyan a primary color?
Yes, in the CMYK color model, cyan is a primary color.
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How is turquoise perceived in design?
Turquoise is seen as calming and aesthetic.
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What does cyan represent in web design?
It often represents modernity and freshness.
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Is turquoise more subdued than cyan?
Yes, turquoise is typically softer and more subdued.
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Is cyan used in printing?
Yes, cyan is one of the primary colors in color printing.
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Dec 02, 2023
Are cyan and turquoise used in art?
Yes, both are popular in various forms of art.
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Can cyan be considered a cool color?
Yes, cyan is generally considered a cool color.
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Dec 02, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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