Looking for the perfect black paint color for your home? Read my review of Sherwin Williams Caviar to see if it’s the right choice for you.
Black paint colors are a dramatic, sophisticated choice – perfect for those looking to make a bit of a statement!
A neutral black paint color should be easy to find, right?! Wrong!
Black, like any other color, comes in many shades with different undertones that can affect the mood of your room. Blacks can be true neutrals, lean warm or lean cool.
So, I’ve chosen to do a review of Sherwin Williams Caviar. This deep, true black might be the ideal choice for your next project.
Caviar, Sherwin Williams, SW 6990
Caviar is a striking, deep black paint color from Sherwin Williams. It’s the kind of black that doesn’t just sit quietly in the background; it makes a bold statement wherever you use it.
Whether you’re looking to create an accent wall or add a touch of elegance to your cabinets, this color delivers.
Click here to get a peel and stick sample of Caviar
Color Family
Caviar falls into the neutral family, which means it’s versatile enough to pair with many other colors. I’ve found that it works beautifully with both modern and traditional decor.
Whether you’re going for a modern monochrome look or mixing it up with vibrant accents, Caviar is up to the task.
Light Reflectance Value
3
With an LRV of 3, Caviar is one of the darkest blacks out there.
On a scale where 0 is pure black and 100 is pure white, an LRV of 3 means this color absorbs almost all light, keeping it consistently deep and rich in nearly any lighting.
If you’re looking for a true dark black that doesn’t shift with the light, Caviar is a great choice.
RGB Colors
R: 49 G: 48 B: 49
The RGB values of Caviar reveal a balanced mix of red, green, and blue, with just a touch of warmth.
This balance is something I really appreciate because it keeps Caviar feeling rich and luxurious without leaning too heavily toward any particular hue.
Hex Code
#313031
If you’re working on a digital project or need to match this color exactly, the hex code #313031 will ensure you get it right.
Undertones
Caviar doesn’t have any strong or overpowering undertones, which is part of what makes it so versatile.
However, if you look closely, you might notice a subtle red or purple warmth. This slight warmth gives Caviar a bit of depth, so it never feels flat or harsh.
I’ve noticed that in spaces with lots of natural light, especially south-facing rooms, this warmth can become more noticeable. It can even lean slightly brown, adding a cozy vibe to the room.
On the other hand, in rooms with less natural light, particularly rooms facing north, Caviar stays true to its deep, rich black tone without much variation.
Because of its subtle undertones, it’s always a good idea to swatch Caviar on your walls before making a final decision.
Paint colors can look different depending on the lighting and surrounding decor, so testing it in your space will give you a true sense of how it will feel in your home.
Best Uses
Caviar is a fantastic choice if you’re looking to make a bold statement in your home.
I’ve used it in several spaces, and it never fails to impress. Here are some of the best ways to use this deep, rich black:
- Trim, especially when paired with crisp white walls for a striking contrast.
- Interior doors that need a bit of character.
- An accent wall that draws the eye and adds depth to a room.
- Powder rooms for a dramatic and luxurious feel. Check out these powder room paint colors for more ideas.
- Cabinets that need a modern touch. Consider pairing with some of these top kitchen cabinet colors.
- Furniture pieces that you want to stand out in a room.
It also makes a great home exterior color.
Similar Colors
- Benjamin Moore Black
- Behr Raven Black
- Sherwin Williams Black Magic
- Benjamin Moore Space Black
- Behr Limousine Leather
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Sherwin Williams Domino
Click here to get a peel and stick sample of Caviar
Coordinating Colors
Caviar is a deep, rich black that pairs beautifully with a wide range of colors.
I love how Caviar looks when paired with cool neutrals like white or gray. These combinations let Caviar be the star, offering a clean and sophisticated backdrop.
If you’re going for something a bit more vibrant, don’t be afraid to mix in some bold hues like green, blue, or even pink. These colors can really sing against the depth of Caviar.
Here are a few coordinating colors that work particularly well:
Cool whites:
- Snowbound
- White Sand
- Pure White
- Gypsum
- High Reflective White
Bright greens:
- Oh Pistachio
- Picnic
- Kiwi
- Vegan
- Retro Mint
Bright pinks:
- Rose Pink
- Impatiens Petal
- In the Pink
- Priscilla
- Alyssum
Trim Colors
When it comes to pairing trim colors with Caviar, bright white is always a winning choice.
The crispness of a bright white trim highlights the depth of Caviar, creating a sharp, clean contrast that really makes the room pop.
I’ve used this combination in several spaces, and it never fails to impress.
Whether you’re working with traditional or modern decor, bright white trim adds that perfect finishing touch.
Here are a few bright white trim colors I’ve found pair beautifully with Caviar:
- Benjamin Moore Simply White
- Sherwin Williams Extra White
- Behr Ultra Pure White
Sherwin Williams Caviar Paint Color Palette
Want to use this paint color in your home? Instantly upgrade your home’s aesthetic with our exclusive paint color palette. Unlock the perfect trim color and six stunning accent colors, a combination of neutrals and bold hues for an instantly harmonious space!
Get your perfect paint color palette by clicking here!
FAQs
Here are some common frequently asked questions about Caviar.
Is SW Caviar warm or cool?
Sherwin Williams Caviar is considered a warm black paint color due to its subtle red and purple undertones. These undertones add a bit of warmth, making it feel cozy rather than stark.
I’ve noticed this warmth, especially in rooms with plenty of natural light. If you’re looking for a black that feels inviting and not too harsh, Caviar could be a great fit.
But, as always, it’s best to test it in your space first.
What is the difference between Tricorn Black vs Caviar?
Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black and Caviar are very close in color, but they do have their differences.
Tricorn Black is slightly darker and more neutral, while Caviar has that touch of warmth I mentioned earlier.
If you’re aiming for a true, deep black without any undertones, Tricorn Black might be the better choice.
However, if you prefer a black with a bit of softness, Caviar could be perfect.
I’ve used both, and it really comes down to the vibe you want in your room. Don’t forget to swatch them side by side to see how they play with your lighting.
What is the difference between BM Onyx vs SW Caviar?
The biggest difference between these two is that Benjamin Moore Onyx is a touch lighter than Caviar. Onyx has an LRV of 5, while Caviar sits at 3.
This means Onyx might appear a bit warmer, with slight brown undertones.
If you’re looking for a black that’s a little less intense, Onyx could work. But if you want that deep, rich black, Caviar is the way to go.
Is Sherwin Williams Caviar a true black?
With an LRV of 3, Sherwin Williams Caviar is definitely a true black paint color. It absorbs almost all light, staying dark and rich throughout the day.
If you’re after a black that won’t shift or lighten as the sun moves, Caviar will deliver that consistent depth. From my experience, it’s one of the truest blacks out there.
Still, it’s always wise to try a sample on your walls to see how it looks in your space.
What is the difference between SW Caviar vs Black Magic?
Caviar and Sherwin Williams Black Magic are quite similar, but there are subtle differences. Caviar is slightly darker, with an LRV of 2.97, while Black Magic has an LRV of 3.12.
Black Magic leans a bit warmer, which might make it feel a touch more inviting.
If you want a black that’s truly deep, go with Caviar. But if you like the idea of a black with a hint of warmth, Black Magic might be your best bet.
Before you go…
So, you’ve found the perfect paint color, but here’s the thing – there’s another big decision you have to make: picking the right paint sheen. Seriously, the level of glossiness can totally change how your color looks on the walls and how long the paint lasts!
Check out our complete guide to understanding paint sheens.
Still not sure what paint color to choose?
My Paint Color Formula ebook walks you through the painless process of expertly testing paint swatches to ensure you have the perfect color for your home.
The best way to sample paint? Samplize!
Get peel-and-stick removable and reusable paint samples here!
Thanks for reading!
Meg Hemmelgarn is a freelance writer and home decor + DIY blogger who loves to talk about paint colors. She and her husband are currently renovating their third fixer upper. You can see their projects on her blog, Green With Decor.