Introduction
When it comes to bohemian decor, color is everything. While neutrals bring calm and cohesion, nothing elevates a boho space quite like the rich, luxurious look of jewel tones. Think emerald greens, deep sapphires, rich amethysts, and ruby reds—all paired with lush textures and intricate patterns. I first experimented with jewel tones in my bedroom, swapping out neutral bedding for a velvet duvet in a deep teal and accenting it with mustard and plum throw pillows. The transformation was immediate—suddenly, the room felt like an exotic retreat, full of depth, warmth, and character.
Jewel tones add vibrancy to bohemian spaces without overpowering their natural, eclectic charm. These rich colors bring energy, drama, and sophistication to a room while still allowing for layering and creativity. Whether you want to go bold with an emerald green sofa or prefer subtler accents like sapphire-toned rugs and pillows, jewel tones offer endless possibilities for creating a space that feels both boho and luxurious.
In this blog, we’ll explore how to incorporate jewel tones into your bohemian space, including tips on balancing bold colors, layering textures, and creating a cohesive yet vibrant design.
Why Jewel Tones Work in Bohemian Design
1. Rich and Vibrant
Jewel tones bring life and energy to bohemian spaces, making them feel cozy yet dramatic.
2. Timeless Appeal
Unlike trendy colors that come and go, jewel tones have a timeless quality that adds depth and sophistication.
3. Versatile Pairings
Jewel tones work beautifully with bohemian staples like natural materials, textured textiles, and bold patterns.
4. Eclectic Charm
The luxurious feel of jewel tones complements the eclectic and collected-over-time aesthetic of boho design.
Choosing the Right Jewel Tones for Your Space
Popular Jewel Tones:
- Emerald Green: A grounding and calming shade perfect for accent walls or furniture.
- Deep Sapphire: Adds richness and drama, ideal for rugs, curtains, or throws.
- Amethyst Purple: A softer yet vibrant hue that works beautifully in textiles and decor.
- Ruby Red: Adds passion and warmth, great for bold statement pieces like rugs or ottomans.
- Teal and Peacock Blue: Perfect for a boho twist, these colors bring a modern edge to jewel-toned spaces.
- Mustard Yellow: A warm, golden shade that balances out cooler jewel tones like emerald and sapphire.
Pro Tip:
Start with one or two dominant jewel tones and use them as your base, then layer in complementary colors through accents and decor.
How to Incorporate Jewel Tones in Bohemian Spaces
1. Use Jewel Tones in Textiles
Textiles are the easiest way to introduce jewel tones into your boho space.
- Throw Pillows: Mix and match cushions in velvet, embroidered, or patterned fabrics.
- Rugs: Opt for a Persian or kilim rug in deep reds, blues, or greens.
- Curtains: Hang flowing drapes in rich tones like emerald or plum for a dramatic effect.
- Bedding: Choose a velvet or linen duvet in a jewel tone and layer with patterned throws.
Pro Tip:
Combine solid jewel tones with patterned textiles to create a balanced, layered look.
2. Make a Statement With Furniture
Jewel-toned furniture pieces add a bold and luxurious touch to boho spaces.
- Sofas: Choose a velvet sofa in emerald green, teal, or mustard.
- Accent Chairs: Look for armchairs in amethyst or sapphire for a pop of color.
- Ottomans: Use a ruby or mustard ottoman as a functional yet eye-catching piece.
Pro Tip:
Keep the rest of the room neutral to let jewel-toned furniture take center stage.
3. Incorporate Jewel Tones Through Walls
Painting or wallpapering your walls in jewel tones can create a dramatic and enveloping atmosphere.
- Accent Walls: Try a deep emerald green or sapphire blue on one wall for a bold statement.
- Wallpaper: Choose boho-inspired prints in jewel tones for added texture and pattern.
Pro Tip:
Pair jewel-toned walls with neutral or natural-colored furniture to create balance.
4. Layer With Metallic Accents
Jewel tones and metallics are a match made in bohemian heaven.
- Gold: Adds warmth and pairs beautifully with emerald, ruby, and mustard.
- Brass: Use brass light fixtures, trays, or vases to complement teal or sapphire tones.
- Copper: Works well with darker jewel tones like plum or burgundy.
Pro Tip:
Incorporate metallic accents sparingly to keep the focus on the rich jewel tones.
5. Add Depth With Natural Materials
Pairing jewel tones with natural materials creates a grounded, earthy vibe that’s quintessentially boho.
- Wood: Use medium-to-dark-toned wood furniture to enhance the richness of jewel tones.
- Rattan and Wicker: Soften bold colors with woven textures in light, natural hues.
- Plants: Greenery pops beautifully against jewel-toned decor and adds a fresh, organic touch.
Pro Tip:
Layer jewel tones with neutral, textured materials like jute rugs or woven baskets for balance.
6. Mix and Match Patterns
Bold patterns in jewel tones add energy and personality to your space.
- Rugs and Curtains: Choose patterned textiles with geometric, tribal, or floral designs.
- Throw Pillows: Mix solids with patterned pillows in complementary jewel tones.
- Wall Art: Hang tapestries or framed prints in bold jewel-toned patterns.
Pro Tip:
Stick to a cohesive color palette to prevent patterns from clashing.
Styling Ideas for Jewel-Toned Bohemian Spaces
1. Living Room
- A velvet emerald green sofa paired with sapphire and mustard throw pillows.
- A patterned kilim rug in deep reds and blues.
- Brass and wood side tables for warmth and texture.
- Plants in terracotta pots for a fresh, natural touch.
2. Bedroom
- A sapphire blue velvet duvet layered with amethyst and mustard throws.
- An accent wall in emerald green.
- A rattan bench at the foot of the bed for texture.
- Gold pendant lighting for a touch of glam.
3. Dining Room
- A wooden dining table with mustard or teal velvet chairs.
- Ruby-toned table runners or placemats for a pop of color.
- A statement chandelier with brass or gold details.
- A Persian rug in deep reds and greens under the table.
Picture Gallery
Conclusion
Jewel tones have the power to transform a bohemian space, adding vibrancy, warmth, and sophistication. When used thoughtfully, these rich hues can create a dynamic, layered look that feels luxurious yet relaxed. Whether you’re adding a bold emerald sofa or layering sapphire-toned pillows with mustard accents, jewel tones bring energy and personality to your decor.
For me, incorporating jewel tones has been a game-changer. They’ve allowed me to create spaces that feel bold and artistic while maintaining the cozy, eclectic charm I love about bohemian design. So don’t shy away from these colors—embrace them and let your creativity shine.
With the right balance of textures, patterns, and natural materials, you can create a boho space that’s as vibrant and unique as you are.
FAQ
1. Can I mix multiple jewel tones in one space?
Yes! Just stick to a cohesive color palette and balance the bold hues with neutral or natural materials.
2. What’s the best way to start incorporating jewel tones?
Start small with throw pillows, rugs, or curtains, then add larger statement pieces like a sofa or accent chair.
3. Do jewel tones work in small spaces?
Absolutely! Use jewel tones as accents in smaller spaces or opt for one dominant hue to avoid overwhelming the room.
4. What materials pair well with jewel tones?
Natural materials like wood, rattan, and jute pair beautifully with the richness of jewel tones, adding balance and texture.
5. Are jewel tones only for bold designs?
Not at all! Jewel tones can be used subtly in neutral or minimalist boho spaces through accents like textiles and decor.
About the Author
M.Arch. Julio Arco is an architect, interior designer, and urban planner with degrees from ITESM, McGill University, and a certificate in Architecture in Urban Context from LDM. Julio has designed interiors for over 1,200 clients and also teaches architecture at ITESM.
His go-to sites for inspiration include Houzz, Apartment Therapy, HGTV, Architectural Digest, and The Spruce.