Updated: January 2025
Native Americans use beautiful and distinctive designs and colors in everything from clothing to face paint. Did you know that those colors have specific meanings? They are used symbolically to tell stories visually and they represent a wide range of things from elements in the natural world to personal characteristics and more.
Red
Red is a powerful color in Native American symbolism, representing both violence and strength. Historically, it was often used as war paint. However, when applied as face paint, red symbolizes happiness and beauty. In some tribes, a zigzag pattern painted in red on the forehead signifies a connection to Thunderbird, a mythical bird figure believed to create thunder and wield great power. Red is also associated with the earth and is frequently used in pottery and ceremonial attire.
Blue
Blue holds dual meanings, representing both the natural world and emotions. It is associated with the sky, rivers, and water, as well as wisdom and sadness. For many tribes, blue also symbolizes femininity. Among the Hopi, blue is considered the most sacred color, often used in ceremonies to honor the spirits. In some traditions, blue doors were painted to ward off evil spirits, and turquoise stones were used as protective amulets.
Green
Green is deeply connected to nature, symbolizing earth, hills, mountains, and summer. It represents harmony and endurance, reflecting the interconnectedness of life. Some Native Americans even regard green as a healing color, believed to possess restorative powers. Green feathers and face paint were used to convey messages of health and renewal during rituals and ceremonies.
Yellow
Yellow carries diverse meanings within Native American traditions. While it is associated with sunshine, dawn, and life’s vitality, it can also symbolize death. As face paint or clothing, yellow denotes bravery, signifying an individual’s readiness to fight courageously, even to the death. In some contexts, yellow also represents intellect and a connection to the divine.
White
White is a symbol of peace, purity, and the spiritual realm. It is often used in ceremonies to signify new beginnings or to honor the deceased. White feathers, beads, and face paint play important roles in rituals, symbolizing a connection to the spiritual world and a path to enlightenment.
Black
Black conveys powerful and often dual meanings. While it symbolizes death and the unknown, it is also a color of strength and resilience. In face paint, black was used to prepare for battle, representing readiness and determination. Some tribes associate black with the West, tying it to the end of life and the transition to the spirit world.
Brown
Brown symbolizes connection to the earth, stability, and endurance. It is often used in pottery, beadwork, and textiles to represent animals and natural elements. Brown conveys respect for the environment and is integral to designs celebrating nature’s balance.
Purple
Purple, though less commonly used, signifies wisdom, spiritual growth, and a deep connection to the sacred. It appears in ceremonial contexts to represent mystery and the divine.
Incorporating Native American Colors in Art and Gifts
Native American colors are not just symbolic; they are integral to the artistry and craftsmanship of indigenous creations. Pottery, jewelry, textiles, and ceremonial items often feature these vibrant hues, weaving together stories of nature, spirituality, and human experience. Each piece serves as a visual narrative, making them meaningful additions to any home or thoughtful gifts.
At Kachina House, we offer various authentic Native American arts and crafts that incorporate these symbolic colors. Whether you’re looking for handcrafted pottery, or stunning jewelry, our collection reflects the cultural richness and artistry of Indigenous communities.
I like to learn different cultures and I figured to learn this one because it sound very interesting to know how they lived and how they battled and other native culture stuff.
If you are a reader and want to find out about the Native Americans Richard and Kathleen Gear wrote a wonderful series “People of the …” each one is a story about a group of Native Americans pre-contact with Europeans. Lots of history there. Also, there is a writer Craig Childs, he wrote “House of Rain” another wonderful book about how the Natives moved through this world before we interrupted them.