Our History

Inspired By Vision: The colorful story of HunterLab.

Over 70 years ago, Richard Hunter dreamed how color science could make a difference in the world.

HunterLab: A Legacy of Vision, Science, and Innovation

Hunter Associates Laboratory, Inc., known as HunterLab, has led the world in color measurement since its founding in 1952 by Richard S. Hunter—a pioneering color scientist whose curiosity and rigor sparked enduring advancements in the science of appearance. For more than seven decades, HunterLab has offered practical, scientifically grounded solutions to industry’s most complex color challenges.

From Apprentice to Innovator

Richard Hunter’s journey in color science began in December 1927 when he joined the National Bureau of Standards (now NIST) as a “Minor Laboratory Apprentice.” Working alongside experts like Dr. Deane B. Judd, Kasson S. Gibson, and Irwin G. Priest, he contributed to groundbreaking research that led to the 1931 adoption of the CIE X, Y, Z coordinate system—an essential foundation in colorimetry.

Recognizing the need for a more intuitive system for industrial use, Richard developed the Hunter L, a, b color scale, first published in 1942 in NBS Circular C429. This innovation, which aligned more closely with human vision, became the basis for the widely used CIE L*, a*, b* scale, now a global standard.

Transforming Science into Tools

To make this scientific breakthrough accessible, Richard also designed the first photoelectric tristimulus colorimeter. His invention enabled reliable, numerical color evaluation without requiring specialized expertise—bridging the gap between laboratory science and industrial application. These tools brought objectivity and repeatability to quality control in manufacturing.

In 1952, Richard and his wife Elizabeth founded Hunter Associates Laboratory in their home in Fairfax, Virginia. Their goal was to provide accurate, easy-to-use instruments grounded in scientific principles, not simply to launch a business, but to empower others with meaningful, applicable technology.

Trusted Solutions, Industry-Wide Impact

From its earliest days, HunterLab became known for helping industries achieve color consistency and control across products—from consumer goods like soap to raw materials like plastics and chemicals. Richard’s influence extended beyond color to appearance attributes such as gloss, haze, and translucency, redefining how manufacturers approach product quality.

Advancing Color Science Today

HunterLab continues to innovate, offering a suite of advanced instruments—including ColorFlex L2®, Vista®, Aeros®, and Agera®—that support precise, repeatable measurements of reflected and transmitted color. These technologies empower companies worldwide to ensure product quality, visual appeal, and brand consistency.

Today, HunterLab is 100% employee-owned, driven by the same passion and commitment to excellence that Richard Hunter exemplified. His legacy lives on in our pursuit of practical, scientifically sound color measurement solutions that shape the way the world sees and understands color.

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We have answers to all your questions. As industry pioneers since 1956, we’ve learned a lot along the way. And we’re more than happy to share.