As far as popularity is concerned, the rose tattoo is right up at the top of the list. People have inked roses of all sorts on their bodies for a long time. The reason for this varies but mostly, the rose is synonymous with love. From early times, roses have been given to the significant other as a sign of affection. They also have been used to express apology, happiness, congratulations and the celebration of birthdays and anniversaries. They can be inked in the fully bloomed state or even as a budding flower. But what color should be used? Below is a brief list of the colors of the rose and their meanings. Red. Obviously this is the color of love and affection. It can also depict courage or respect. Many times the red rose is used to express sincere love and passion. The most popular color for a tattoo. Yellow. The yellow rose is given when someone wishes to express friendship or happiness. It coincides with delight and joy. Sometimes the yellow rose is used to show caring or nurturing. A stunning tattoo color. Peach. This color is very pretty and subtle. The peach rose is given to someone to say thanks and show gratitude. It may be used when one wants to express sincerity and appreciation for an accomplishment. Very subtle. White. Most people associate the white rose with weddings and marriage. It is a symbol of innocence and purity. It can also express intimacy and secrecy. Difficult to make look natural. Blue. When someone uses the blue rose they can be expressing the impossible or unattainable. It is used for displaying the unreachable goal or dream. This is a very striking tattoo color. Pink. Very many times pink roses will be used to show sympathy or sorrow. They also can symbolize grace, gentleness and admiration. Not used much but should be. Orange. When someone is enthusiastic or wants to display fascination and desire they generally turn to the orange rose. It is a symbol of wants and achievement. Also a beautiful tattoo color. Sterling or Lavender. This is a beautiful color of rose. It is meant to display infatuation or love at first sight. It can be use to express enchantment or fantasy as well. Works well with dragons and fantasy tats. Black. This is the rose that means death and despair. When this rose is used it means goodbye or farewell to those who have passed on. Use carefully. The above colors and their definitions are just guidelines. You can ink whatever color rose you would like. It really is up to the individual but keep in mind the color so that you don't use the incorrect meaning.