When it comes to creating a luxurious, sophisticated, and dramatic glam interior, jewel tones are the ultimate showstoppers. Inspired by precious gemstones like emeralds, sapphires, rubies, and amethysts, these deep, rich hues bring elegance, vibrancy, and a touch of boldness to any room. When paired with glam elements like metallic accents, mirrored surfaces, and plush fabrics, jewel tones shine in all their glory, creating a space that feels both opulent and inviting.
Ready to add jewel tones to your home in a way that feels cohesive and stunning? Let’s explore how to use these regal colors to elevate your glam interior design.
1. Start with a Jewel-Toned Statement Piece
If you’re introducing jewel tones into your space, start with a statement piece to anchor the design. A bold furniture item in a jewel tone will instantly add drama and serve as the focal point of the room.
Statement Pieces to Try:
- Emerald Velvet Sofa: Luxurious and timeless, perfect for creating a rich, inviting living room.
- Sapphire Blue Accent Chair: Adds a regal touch while complementing gold or silver accents.
- Ruby Red Ottoman: A small yet impactful pop of bold color.
- Amethyst Tufted Headboard: Elevates your bedroom with a glamorous, jewel-inspired centerpiece.
Pro Tip: Balance bold jewel-toned furniture with neutral walls and floors to let the color shine without overwhelming the space.
2. Layer Jewel Tones with Metallic Finishes
Jewel tones and metallics are a match made in glam heaven. The richness of jewel tones pairs beautifully with the reflective quality of gold, silver, brass, or chrome, creating a balanced, luxe aesthetic.
Where to Pair Jewel Tones with Metallics:
- Furniture: Emerald or sapphire upholstery with gold or brass legs.
- Decor: Pair ruby red cushions with gold trays or silver candle holders.
- Lighting: Hang gold or chrome chandeliers against jewel-toned walls or furniture.
- Mirrors: Use gold-framed mirrors above emerald or plum furniture.
Pro Tip: Use gold accents for warmth or chrome and silver for a cooler, modern glam vibe.
3. Create Drama with Jewel-Toned Walls
Jewel-toned walls bring instant drama, depth, and personality to a space. Whether you opt for paint, wallpaper, or wall panels, these rich hues set the tone for a glamorous interior.
Best Jewel Tones for Walls:
- Emerald Green: Sophisticated and bold, perfect for living rooms and dining rooms.
- Navy Blue: Deep and moody, it pairs beautifully with gold and silver accents.
- Plum or Amethyst: Adds softness with a hint of regal elegance.
- Teal: Vibrant and versatile, ideal for both modern and classic glam interiors.
Pro Tip: Use jewel tones on an accent wall if you’re not ready to commit to an entire room. Pair with white or soft neutrals to keep the space balanced.
4. Mix Multiple Jewel Tones for Depth and Interest
Who says you have to stick to just one jewel tone? Mixing multiple jewel tones adds depth, dimension, and a rich, layered look to your glam interior.
How to Mix Jewel Tones:
- Pair emerald green with sapphire blue for a refined, cool-toned palette.
- Combine ruby red with plum or amethyst for a warm, regal aesthetic.
- Use teal and gold together for a vibrant, luxurious look.
- Balance multiple jewel tones with neutral or metallic accents for cohesion.
Pro Tip: Stick to a dominant jewel tone and use others as accents in the form of pillows, throws, or artwork to avoid overwhelming the space.
5. Use Plush Fabrics to Enhance Jewel Tones
Jewel tones look even more luxurious when paired with soft, plush fabrics like velvet, silk, and faux fur. These textures enhance the depth of the colors and add to the overall glam aesthetic.
Where to Use Plush Fabrics:
- Velvet Sofas and Chairs: Elevate your space with rich, jewel-toned upholstery.
- Silk Curtains: Jewel-toned silk drapes create drama and elegance.
- Faux Fur Throws: Pair a sapphire sofa with a white faux fur throw for a cozy contrast.
- Velvet or Satin Cushions: Add pops of ruby, emerald, or plum to a neutral sofa or bed.
Pro Tip: Layer plush fabrics with other glam materials like mirrored furniture, glass surfaces, and metallic decor for a balanced look.
6. Add Jewel Tones Through Accessories and Decor
If you want to dip your toes into jewel tones without a major commitment, start small with accessories and decor. This is a great way to test the waters and see how these colors work in your space.
Jewel-Toned Accessories to Try:
- Throw Pillows: Velvet cushions in emerald, ruby, or sapphire tones add instant glam.
- Throws and Blankets: A deep plum or teal throw enhances sofas and beds.
- Artwork: Large-scale art featuring jewel tones can serve as a stunning focal point.
- Rugs: A jewel-toned rug anchors the room while adding color and softness.
- Vases and Bowls: Use glass or ceramic vases in rich hues for a subtle pop of color.
Pro Tip: Combine jewel-toned accessories with a neutral or monochrome backdrop to ensure they stand out.
7. Enhance the Bedroom with Jewel-Toned Bedding
Transform your bedroom into a glamorous, jewel-inspired retreat by incorporating deep, rich tones into your bedding and decor.
Ideas for a Jewel-Toned Bedroom:
- Velvet Duvet Covers: Opt for emerald green, plum, or navy blue for a luxurious feel.
- Pillows and Throws: Mix jewel-toned cushions with gold or silver accents.
- Tufted Headboards: An amethyst or sapphire velvet headboard creates a regal focal point.
- Area Rugs: A deep ruby or emerald rug adds drama underfoot.
Pro Tip: Balance dark jewel tones with crisp white sheets or neutral walls to keep the space from feeling too heavy.
8. Pair Jewel Tones with Dark, Moody Elements
For a more dramatic and edgy glam look, pair jewel tones with dark elements like black furniture, charcoal walls, or deep wood tones.
How to Add Moody Drama:
- Use a navy blue accent wall behind a black velvet sofa.
- Pair emerald green furniture with matte black side tables.
- Add ruby or plum accents to a room with dark wood finishes.
- Use black-framed mirrors or artwork against jewel-toned walls for a modern twist.
Pro Tip: Incorporate metallic lighting or mirrored furniture to brighten and balance the dark tones.
9. Use Jewel Tones in Dining Spaces
Dining rooms are the perfect place to experiment with bold jewel tones, creating a luxurious, high-end dining experience.
Ideas for Glam Dining Rooms:
- Jewel-Toned Chairs: Upholster dining chairs in emerald, plum, or navy velvet.
- Rich Walls: Paint dining room walls a deep teal or ruby red for drama.
- Crystal Chandeliers: Hang a chandelier above a jewel-toned table setting for glam sparkle.
- Table Linens and Decor: Use jewel-toned table runners, napkins, or centerpieces.
Pro Tip: Combine jewel tones with gold or brass table legs and mirrored buffets to enhance the glam vibe.
10. Anchor Your Space with a Jewel-Toned Rug
A jewel-toned rug is an excellent way to ground your glam space while adding richness, color, and texture.
Rug Ideas:
- Emerald or Sapphire Rugs: Perfect for creating a bold statement in living rooms.
- Plum or Ruby Persian Rugs: Add depth and elegance to traditional glam interiors.
- Abstract Jewel-Toned Rugs: Modern designs with rich hues bring a contemporary glam look.
Pro Tip: Use a large jewel-toned rug to define your space and tie together furniture and accessories.
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Conclusion
Jewel tones are the ultimate way to add richness, depth, and drama to a glam interior. Whether you incorporate them through statement furniture, wall colors, soft fabrics, or small decor accents, these vibrant hues bring a luxurious and sophisticated feel to any space. Pair jewel tones with metallic finishes, plush textures, and reflective surfaces to create a cohesive and stunning glam look that feels timeless and refined.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to transform your home into a jewel box of elegance that’s as bold as it is beautiful.
FAQ
1. What are the best jewel tones for glam interiors?
Emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, amethyst purple, and teal are top choices for a luxurious glam look.
2. How do I balance jewel tones in a room?
Pair jewel tones with neutral colors, metallic accents, and reflective surfaces to keep the space balanced and cohesive.
3. What fabrics work best with jewel tones?
Velvet, silk, satin, and faux fur enhance the richness and depth of jewel-toned hues.
4. Can I mix multiple jewel tones in one room?
Yes! Stick to one dominant jewel tone and use others as accents through decor, pillows, and artwork for a layered look.
5. How do I add jewel tones without overwhelming my space?
Start small with throw pillows, rugs, or artwork. Gradually build up with larger pieces like sofas or wall colors for impact.
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.