In order to know the meaning of the term ocher, we are first going to discover its etymological origin. In this case, it must be emphasized that it derives from Latin, specifically from “ochra”, which, in turn, emanates from the Greek word “okhros”, which can be translated as “yellow”.
The concept of ocher has several meanings.
In the field of geology , the yellow earthy mineral is called ocher. The notion usually refers specifically to the mineral hydrated iron oxide , which generally appears mixed with clay.
Ochers can be found in the soil or even in groundwater. They have good resistance to humidity and light and are characterized by their stability, properties that mean they are often used as pigments .
It is common for ochers to be obtained through open pit mining . When the mineral is available, it is washed and then ground . The resulting powder has been used as a pigment since prehistoric times, both for the development of artistic paints and for body painting.
To alter the appearance of ocher it is possible to mix the material with other pigments. You can also toast it.
Ocher, on the other hand, is the name given to dark yellow tones . It can be a brownish yellow or a yellowish orange, among other varieties in the range .
In the field of decoration, it should be noted that the use of the color ocher is very common. This is because it is considered to bring with it a series of important benefits, among which we can highlight the following:
-Gives any room great warmth. And what this does is that, in the case of homes, it contributes to giving a feeling of home.
-In the same way, it is considered to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room.
-Likewise, we must keep in mind that it is a positive color, what it does is transmit optimism, energy and vitality.
-Of course, we must not overlook that ocher is a color that does not go out of fashion at all.
-Also, no less important is that it is a very versatile color, which can be combined with all types of colors and can be present in different rooms.
In Italy , finally, there is a town in the province of L'Aquila that bears the name of Ocre . About 1,000 people live in this small town in the Abruzzo region. One of its most important constructions is the Castello di Ocre , a fortification built in the Middle Ages that is currently in ruins.
In the same way, we cannot ignore that the term in question has also been used to give titles to certain books. A good example of this is the collection of poems “Ocre”, written by the Swiss-born writer Alfonsina Storni (1892 – 1938).