Emperor Gold vs Balthasar Gold

How close are they?

ΔE 11.8, fair: the same colour family, but not a straight swap. Balthasar Gold is a little lighter, more saturated, cooler than Emperor Gold.

Can I use Balthasar Gold instead of Emperor Gold?

Only where an exact match doesn’t matter, such as a new unit or a highlight. Fair match (ΔE 12). Balthasar Gold is a little lighter, more saturated, cooler than Emperor Gold.

Can I use Emperor Gold instead of Balthasar Gold?

The same difference applies the other way round: Emperor Gold is a little darker, more muted, warmer.

ΔE is the colour difference between our two swatch estimates: under about 6 is close, over about 15 is loose. Real paints also differ in finish, coverage and how they thin, so test before you commit.