Pantone LLC, the global authority on color and provider of professional color standards for the design industries has announced Turquoise as the color of the year for 2010.

Combining the serene qualities of blue and the invigorating aspects of green, Turquoise evokes thoughts of soothing, tropical waters and a languorous, effective escape from the everyday troubles of the world, while at the same time restoring our sense of well being.

“In many cultures, Turquoise occupies a very special position in the world of color,” explains Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “It is believed to be a protective talisman, a color of deep compassion and healing, and a color of faith and truth, inspired by water and sky. Through years of color word-association studies, we also find that Turquoise represents an escape to many – taking them to a tropical paradise that is pleasant and inviting, even if only a fantasy.”

Whether envisioned as a tranquil ocean surrounding a tropical island or a protective stone warding off evil spirits, Turquoise is a color that most people respond to positively. It is universally flattering, has appeal for men and women, and translates easily to fashion and interiors.

With both warm and cool undertones, Turquoise pairs nicely with any other color in the spectrum. Turquoise adds a splash of excitement to neutrals and browns, complements reds and pinks, creates a classic maritime look with deep blues, livens up all other greens, and is especially trend-setting with yellow-greens.

In fashion, Turquoise makes a statement that can look elegant and dressy in fine silk and gemstones, or casual and fun in cotton and athletic apparel. Because of its versatility, Turquoise is a great accent color in jewelry, purses, shoes, hair accessories and even nail polish for women, and ties, shirts and sportswear for men.

How to use Turquoise:

– Create feminine appeal with the lighter shades of turquoise.

– Some shades of turquoise have an old-fashioned 50s and 60s retro feel.

– Teal has a darker, somewhat more sophisticated look.

– Keep the soft, feminine qualities going by mixing turquoise with lavender and pale pinks.

– A bright turquoise and pink create a sparkly clean, retro look.

– Make it art deco by pairing turquoise with white and black.

– Turquoise with gray or silver as well as terra cotta and light browns have a Southwestern (U.S.) flavor.

– Turquoise with orange or yellow creates a fresh, sporty look.

Try these color pallets with Swarovski crystals.