RAL 7038 Agate Grey — Hex, RGB, LRV, and Best US Paint Matches
RAL 7038 Agate Grey hex #B5B8B1 · LRV 47. Closest matches at Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, Behr, and Valspar.
Color spec
| Hex | #B5B8B1 |
| RGB | 181, 184, 177 |
| LRV | ~47 |
| RAL Classic | RAL 7038 |
Also known as / near matches
RAL 7038, known as Agate Grey, takes its name from the layered, often nuanced mineral, hinting at a grey that is anything but flat. While it sits comfortably within the RAL Classic 7000 series of greys, its specific ‘agate’ moniker suggests a subtle depth and a balanced, earthy quality rather than an overtly industrial feel. It’s a foundational mid-tone that avoids the starkness of some cooler greys, often finding itself compared to other sophisticated neutrals that carry a hint of natural stone.
What it looks like in real life
Agate Grey unveils itself as a remarkably versatile mid-tone, possessing an LRV of 47 that allows it to hold its presence without dominating a space. In the crisp clarity of north-facing light, it reads as a clean, slightly cool grey, offering a quiet backdrop that never feels icy. Conversely, when bathed in the warm embrace of south-facing sun, this color softens beautifully, revealing a very subtle warmth that keeps it from appearing stark, making it a truly balanced neutral that can flex with the light’s temperament.
Closest matches at US paint brands
Closest matches at US paint brands
| Color | Brand | Name | SKU | LRV | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kompozit | Fossilized | 0581 | 47 | — | |
| Benjamin Moore | Stonington Gray | HC-170 | 59 | — | |
| Sherwin-Williams | Comfort Gray | SW 6205 | 47 | — | |
| Behr | Dolphin Fin | PPU18-15 | 47 | — | |
| PPG / Glidden | Limited Gray | PPG1010-3 | 56 | — | |
| Dunn-Edwards | Slipway | DEC753 | 38 | — | |
| Pratt & Lambert | Light Grey | 32-12 | 58 | — | |
| Magnolia Home | Hawthorn Mews | JG-176 | 41 | — | |
| Clare | Wing It | Clare 19 | 38 | — | |
| Backdrop | Nuevo | BD-NU | 38 | — | |
| Valspar | Amazon Mist | 5005-1A | 56 | — | |
| Farrow & Ball | Cromarty | No. 285 | 60 | — |
The closest match to RAL 7038 is Kompozit Fossilized, sharing an identical ΔE of 0.0 and LRV of 47, making it a nearly perfect twin. The array of close matches shows a spread from the lighter Benjamin Moore Stonington Gray (LRV 59) to the deeper Dunn-Edwards Slipway (LRV 38), with undertones ranging from the ever-so-slightly greener lean of Sherwin-Williams Comfort Gray to the warmer, almost greige cast of Behr Dolphin Fin.
When to use this color
Great for:
- It creates a serene, grounded atmosphere in a well-lit living room, allowing art and furnishings to truly shine.
- This color quietly anchors a home office or study, promoting focus without feeling heavy or distracting.
- Excellent for cabinetry or trim in rooms with abundant natural light, providing a sophisticated, enduring look.
Tricky in:
- In rooms with very low natural light or predominantly artificial, cool-toned lighting, it can appear flatter and lose some of its nuanced depth.
- Paired with stark, cool whites in minimalist spaces, it risks feeling slightly uninspired rather than comfortably balanced.
Pairs well with
Pairs well with
Painting tips
- Primer: For this medium-value color with an LRV of 47, a white-tinted primer is recommended to ensure optimal color accuracy and coverage.
- Sheen: A matte or eggshell sheen on walls will allow its nuanced character to drape beautifully, while a satin or semi-gloss will provide durability and a subtle gleam for trim or cabinetry.
- Coats: Typical for a color of this depth, two coats are generally sufficient to achieve full opacity and a rich, even finish over a properly primed surface.
- Application: While its moderate LRV is forgiving, the subtle texture from roller nap can still be noticeable under strong raking light, so meticulous application is always advised.