Designed byBipartisan legislative committee (1962); the Reverend William McGhie is sometimes credited.
Design & Symbolism
Specs plus what each color and emblem means on this flag — tap an element to reveal its meaning.
Proportions
1:2
Shape
Rectangular
Colors
Yellow#FED100 · Pantone 109 C
Gold depicts the sun and the island's natural wealth.
Green#009B3A · Pantone 355 C
Green evokes the vegetation, agriculture and hope.
Black#000000
Black speaks of the people's strength and creativity (originally, hardships overcome).
Symbols & elements
Gold saltire
The diagonal cross divides the field into four. Jamaica is the only national flag in the world using neither red, white nor blue.
Construction details
Proportions 1:2. A gold saltire divides the flag into four triangles: green at top and bottom, black at hoist and fly. It is one of the few national flags without red, white or blue.
Construction sheet
Etiquette & protocol
How the flag should be used and displayed with respect.
Specific rules — Jamaica
The flag is honoured on 6 August, Independence Day.
It must not touch the ground.
Common conventions
Keep the flag clean and never let it touch the ground.
Never fly a torn or faded flag — repair or replace it.
Illuminate the flag if it stays up at night.
Never use the flag as clothing, packaging or advertising.
Dispose of a worn flag respectfully, not in the trash.
Did you know?
It is one of the very few national flags (and now nearly the only one) without red, white or blue.
