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References

A color may include a references array to link it to external systems such as Pantone or RAL.
This makes it possible to align PaletteJSON data with widely used color standards.

Copyright notice

External systems such as Pantone, RAL, and NCS are proprietary.
Because of copyright and licensing restrictions, documentation cannot show both real color values and real reference codes together.

In this guide, examples either:

  • use invented or invalid color values with real-looking codes, or
  • use realistic color values with placeholder codes.

This ensures PaletteJSON remains open without infringing on third-party rights.

Properties​

Each entry in references is an object with the following properties:

system (required)​

  • Type: string
  • Allowed values: pantone, ral, ncs, other
  • Purpose: Identifies which external reference catalogue the code belongs to.

code (required)​

  • Type: string
  • Purpose: Identifier in the external system.

library (optional)​

  • Type: string
  • Purpose: Specific catalogue/edition within the system (e.g. “Solid Coated”).

collection (optional)​

  • Type: string
  • Purpose: Higher-level family or marketing bundle (e.g. “RAL Classic”).

note (optional)​

  • Type: string
  • Purpose: Free text, useful for clarifications.

Examples​

{
  "id": "brand-blue",
  "hex": "#XXXXXX",
  "references": [
    {
      "system": "pantone",
      "code": "2728 C",
      "library": "Solid Coated"
    }
  ]
}

Usage guidance​

  • Provide references only when you have an authoritative mapping.
  • Stick to one reference per system for clarity.
  • Use note to record uncertainties or special cases.