Designers Reveal How to Use Jewel Tones in Your Home

From bold walls to pops of color, these tips will help you get the jewel-toned look right.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Designers share their expert advice on decorating with jewel tones, including choosing a hero color, mixing tones intentionally, and considering how natural light affects the space. They emphasize the need for balance, suggesting the classic 60-30-10 color formula, and warn against going overboard or pairing jewel tones with pastels. The article also covers using jewel tones through textiles, artwork, and accessories as an entry point for those hesitant about a full-room makeover.

Why it matters

Jewel tones have the power to transform a space, creating a moody, luxurious atmosphere. However, using them effectively requires some design know-how to avoid an overwhelming or disjointed look. This expert guidance can help readers confidently incorporate these bold, saturated hues into their homes in a visually striking yet balanced way.

The details

Designers recommend focusing on one hero jewel-toned color, whether on the walls, a sofa, or a major rug, and then building the rest of the palette around it. Mixing complementary jewel tones can create depth, but they caution against pairing them with pastels, which can soften the drama. Quality of paint pigment is also crucial, as jewel tones can shift dramatically in different lighting conditions. Smaller jewel-toned accents like textiles, artwork, and furniture can be an easier entry point for those hesitant about a full-room makeover.

  • The article was published on February 27, 2026.

The players

Christine Zeiler

A designer who discusses the depth and sophistication that jewel tones can bring to a space.

Jenna Buck Gross

A designer who advises focusing on one bold jewel-toned shade as the 'hero color' in a room.

Amber Guyton

A designer who suggests using the classic 60-30-10 color formula when decorating with jewel tones.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Jewel tones bring an unmatched depth and saturation to a space. There's an intensity and richness that creates instant visual weight and sophistication.”

— Christine Zeiler, Designer (housebeautiful.com)

“Let one bold shade take the lead: on the walls, a sofa, drapery, or a major rug. That's what creates the drama and gives the room its signature mood.”

— Jenna Buck Gross, Designer, Colordrunk Designs (housebeautiful.com)

“Jewel tones are powerful, and power requires discipline.”

— Amber Guyton, Designer, Blessed Little Bungalow (housebeautiful.com)

The takeaway

Decorating with jewel tones requires a careful, intentional approach to achieve the desired dramatic, luxurious effect without overwhelming the space. By following design tips like choosing a hero color, mixing complementary jewel tones, and using smaller accents, readers can confidently incorporate these bold, saturated hues into their homes in a visually striking yet balanced way.