The Sky's the Limit - Pantone's Color of the Year 2026

As we approach the New Year, the Pantone Color Institute has announced its color of 2026; Cloud Dancer (11-4201).

The color, described by the institute as ‘airy’, showcases a slightly off-white hue with hints of a cream undertone. It is a surprising choice, given that white is achromatic (having no chroma). However, ‘white’ could be described as an illusion.

Afterall, white light is actually all the colors, and our human eye perceives white as a color only when all the color cones within our eyes are stimulated. Likewise, if something doesn’t reflect light, it may appear white to us.

Pantone refers to Cloud Dancer as; “A lofty white whose aerated presence acts as a whisper of calm and peace in a noisy world”, furthering the idea of a light, weightless color.

Throughout history, white has been a color associated with simplicity, light, purity and sacrifice.

The modern names for the color have multiple root words that can be traced, including those from Old English, Old Germanic, Icelandic, Latin and Norse, just to name a few, and all have a meaning of “bright” or “blinding”.

“Similar to a blank canvas, Cloud Dancer signifies our desire for a fresh start.” The Pantone Color Institute said of Cloud Dancer.

Indeed, the color is a starting point that compliments all other colors, making it a striking and intriguing choice.

While diamonds spring to mind when thinking of gemstones to pair with this year’s color, there are a few other jewels that might be a perfect fit.

Moonstone, a phenomenal member of the feldspar group of minerals, often has a white body color.

This gemstone often as a sheen of light, most often blue in color, that appears to float over the surface. This is caused by a scattering of light at the microscopic level, and is actually a similar effect to how Earth’s sky appears blue.

~Moonstone cuff bracelet and ring by Lika Behar

With its magical appearance, moonstone certain evokes a sense of calm and serenity, making it a great fit for 2026 color of the year.

Many stories and legends surround this enchanting gemstone. It is said to be a good luck charm, aid travelers at night, and is said to be a wonderful sleep aid that guards against insomnia.

If you are looking for something a little different, white jade may be the perfect match for this year’s color.

While many know the gemstone jade to be green, it comes in a variety of colors, including white jade and ice jade.

White jade symbolizes purity and serenity, and like all forms of jade, is said to be good luck and provide wisdom. Considered a divine gemstone, white jade can range in hues but is often pure white. Ice jade, as the name implies, is usually translucent, providing a unique look.

~White jade and turquoise bracelet, and ice jade necklace by Mason Kay

Like Cloud Dancer, white jade pairs well with many other gemstones, including vibrant colors that offset its bright appearance.

Another fantastic gemstone match to Pantone’s choice for this year is a classic; pearl.

Pearls embody the definitive elegance of a white hue, often considered a staple for any jewelry collection.

Pearls can come in many colors, but white or off-white comes to mind first. Created within oysters or mussels, pearls are luminous, unique and sophisticated.

The Romans adored pearls so much they associated with Venus, goddess of beauty and love. Not only were pearls used in jewelry and clothing, but examples of pearls being used in furniture have been seen.

~Strand of cultured pearls by Imperial Deltah and cultured pearl earrings by ASBA designs

Many other stories claim that pearls are the tears of dragons, mermaids, nereids or other beings and spirits. 

With the slight shimmer to them, pearls showcase the intended feel of this year’s color by providing a soft, carefree feel.

White gemstones, like 2026’s Cloud Dancer, provide a new beginning to explore what’s possible.

At first glance, it may seem unremarkable, but the color white holds the secrets to all other colors, providing a base for them to shine forth.

2026 is just around the corner, and with it come new

Let Cloud Dancer whisper something new to you this year, and try out a simple white gemstone to enhance your collection.

~Blog by Isabelle Corvin, Staff Gemologist and Merchandising Manager