In 1993, Crayola looked to the sky.

The result was Cosmic Colors, a special edition 32-count crayon box that combined two very different color collections into one unforgettable package. Half of the box featured bold, fluorescent Neon Colors, while the other half introduced elegant Gem Tones inspired by precious and semi-precious stones.

More than thirty years later, it remains one of my favorite specialty Crayola releases.

At first glance, the Neon Colors immediately grab your attention. Their bright fluorescent shades reflected the colorful design trends of the early 1990s, and many of them have stood the test of time. Several are still part of Crayola's lineup today, although some have been renamed over the years. Only Blizzard Blue and Magic Mint were eventually retired from the standard collection.

The Gem Tones tell a different story. Instead of bold fluorescent colors, Crayola created a collection inspired by gemstones such as Emerald, Sapphire, Ruby, Opal, and Amethyst. Each crayon contains fine glitter that catches the light, giving artwork a subtle sparkle that feels surprisingly sophisticated for a box of crayons.

I have to admit, the Gem Tones are my favorite part of the set. Not only are the gemstone-inspired names memorable, but even after more than thirty years these crayons still color beautifully. The pigment remains smooth, the glitter still shines, and they remind me just how well many vintage Crayola products have held up over time.

Looking at Cosmic Colors today, what impresses me most is how well the two collections complement one another. The Neon Colors are energetic and playful, while the Gem Tones are rich, elegant, and refined. Together they create a box that feels unlike anything else Crayola has produced.

That's one of the reasons I enjoy collecting specialty boxes like this. They aren't simply different assortments of crayons—they capture a particular moment in time. Cosmic Colors reflects the early 1990s fascination with bright colors, space themes, and imaginative design while showcasing Crayola's willingness to experiment with new ideas.

More than three decades later, I'd say Crayola absolutely nailed the landing.

Check out the video below for a closer look at Cosmic Colors, including color swatches, comparisons with modern equivalents, and a close-up look at the shimmering Gem Tones collection.

So I'll leave you with one question:

Are you Team Neon, or Team Gem Tones?