Colour Wheel

It is important that I research colours before I consider them for my business card and CV. Different colours have different connotations, so it is vital that the correct message is sent out to those viewing it. Using the wrong colours could have a very negative effect on my work. 

The relationship between colours is very important. Contrast has to be used carefully and it is vital that colours do not clash. This is very important when considering fonts.

Complimentary colors are colors that compliment each other well and are located opposite of each other on the color wheel. These are colors like blue and orange, purple and yellow, and red and green.

Analogous colors are those located right next to each other on the color wheel, so they usually match fairly well but provide little contrast when used together.

Red - Often symbolises power, passion and importance. However it can connotate anger and aggression.

Orange - Symbolises joy and sunshine as well as other cheerful emotions. Can symbolise ignorance and deceit.

Yellow - Positive, happiness, intelligence, energy and optimism. However it can bring about feelings such as laziness and jealousy.

Green - Natural, healing and harmony. Green is considered 'safe' (this is why green is used in hospitals). It can however symbolise money, greed and jealousy. 

Blue - Peaceful and calming colour symbolising stability and experience. However, blue can connotate coldness and depression.

Purple - Royalty, wealth, luxury. It can also symbolise magic. Purple can lead to sadness though.

Black - Power, elegance, sophistication. However, can symbolise the unknown, darkness and death.

White - Purity and innocence, cleanliness and safety. Can also connotate coldness and winter.


Sources

http://sixrevisions.com/web_design/a-look-into-color-theory-in-web-design/

http://www.digitalskratch.com/color-psychology.php