Mood rings have been popular since the 1970s as a fun way to supposedly gauge your moods and emotions through color changes. The rings contain liquid crystals that react to shifts in your body temperature by changing colors. Each mood ring color purportedly correlates with a different mood or emotional state.
So if your mood ring is constantly dark blue, what does that mean? Here are some potential reasons why your mood ring might stay dark blue and what that color is thought to represent.
What Dark Blue Means on a Mood Ring
On most traditional mood ring color scales, dark blue is said to indicate a relaxed yet pensive state. Some more specific meanings associated with dark blue include:
- Calm
- Peaceful
- Tranquil
- Soothing
- Thoughtful
- Contemplative
- Analytical
So if your mood ring is stuck on dark blue, it may suggest you are in a pretty steady, settled state of mind. You likely feel calm and relaxed rather than anxious or excited. You may also be introspective and lost in thought.
Why Your Mood Ring Stays Dark Blue
There are several possible reasons why your mood ring is consistently dark blue and doesn’t seem to change colors much:
Your Body Temperature Doesn’t Fluctuate
Since mood rings react to shifts in skin temperature, a lack of temperature flux could keep the color dark blue. Things that may contribute to a steady temperature include:
- Having a slower metabolism
- Being in a temperature-controlled environment most of the time
- Not experiencing strong emotional reactions frequently
The Ring Is Too Loose
In order for a mood ring to accurately monitor temperature changes, it needs to fit your finger properly. If the ring is too loose, air gaps prevent it from making consistent contact with your skin. Tightening the ring could allow it to pick up more temperature fluctuations.
You’re Dehydrated
Dehydration can sometimes cause your hands and fingers to be colder than normal. The constant cooler temperature could keep your mood ring stuck on the same color. So if you aren’t drinking enough water, that could be a factor.
You Have Cold Extremities
Some people naturally tend to have colder hands and feet due to circulatory issues or phenotypes. Since the ring is on your finger, if you have perpetually cold fingers, that sustained lower temperature may prevent the ring from changing from the darker blue tones.
The Ring Is Low Quality
Mood rings can vary greatly in terms of the quality and sensitivity of the liquid crystal technology they use. Lower quality rings may not be as adept at registering subtle temperature changes. Investing in a higher-quality mood ring could yield better color variance.
Your Baseline Temperature is Low
Your average core body temperature could also be on the lower end of the spectrum. Since the ring reacts to increases in temperature above your baseline, a lower temperature provides less range for heat flux. So if your hands are normally cool, you have less potential for color changes.
How to Make Your Mood Ring Change Colors
If you want your dark blue mood ring to cycle through more color variations, here are some tips:
- Warm your hands before putting on the ring, such as by washing them in warm water
- Wear the ring on a different finger that may be warmer
- Remove the ring before activities that alter your temperature, like exercising or taking a bath
- Drink warm beverages to raise your body temperature temporarily
- Put the ring on a warmer part of your body, like an earlobe or neck to test colors
- Focus on thoughts or activities that stir up emotions to change your temperature
The Meaning of Other Mood Ring Colors
While a predominately dark blue mood ring may indicate a calm steady mood, other colors are thought to represent different emotional states. Here is a quick overview of some typical mood ring color meanings:
| Mood Ring Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Black | Tense, nervous |
| Gray | Anxious, stressed |
| Blue | Relaxed, peaceful |
| Green | Normal, average mood |
| Yellow | Happy, optimistic |
| Orange | Excited, passionate |
| Red | Angry, agitated |
| Brown | Sad, depressed |
| Violet | Lovestruck, sensual |
Keep in mind that mood ring colors and their meanings can vary somewhat depending on the manufacturer. But in general, blue tones tend to represent calmer states while warmer colors like red and orange align with excited emotions.
Limitations of Mood Rings
While mood rings can be fun novelty items, it’s important to keep their limitations in mind:
- They cannot actually detect your mood or emotions
- Color changes reflect physical temperature changes only
- The mood color scales are not scientifically proven
- Factors like room temperature and circulation affect readings
- Colors may not always align with your perceived mood
Mood rings cannot read your mind and moods are complex, so don’t put too much stock into the colors shown. Enjoy them for entertainment, but rely on your own self-knowledge for genuine insight into your emotional state.
Conclusion
If your mood ring is stuck on dark blue, it could mean your skin temperature stays relatively stable. This could be attributed to physiology, environment, ring fit, dehydration, or a consistently calm mood. While dark blue is said to represent peacefulness and relaxation, make sure to drink enough fluids and get regular exercise for better color variance. Mood rings have limits in accurately reflecting emotions, but can still be fun gadgets when used with a lighthearted approach.
