XYZCIELAB

XYZCIELAB is a color representation proposed as a hybrid between the CIE XYZ tristimulus space and the perceptual structure of CIE L*a*b*. It is designed to provide a perceptually uniform framework for measuring, editing, and comparing colors by starting from XYZ values and mapping them into a Lab-like coordinate system with consistent lightness and chroma interpretation. The concept aims to combine device-independence with perceptual relevance in color workflows.

In XYZCIELAB, a white reference defined in XYZ space anchors the transformation, and the resulting coordinates are labeled L', a', and b'. The L' channel encodes lightness, while a' and b' encode chromatic information, with a' roughly corresponding to red-green and b' to yellow-blue dimensions. The transformation is designed to be invertible, allowing conversion back to XYZ for rendering or device-specific color management.

Applications include color difference assessment, quality control, and color management systems where a direct link to XYZ data is advantageous. It is discussed in color science literature as an exploratory alternative to standard CIELAB, potentially offering improved stability in certain luminance ranges and greater compatibility with XYZ-based measurement instruments.

As a non-standard proposal, XYZCIELAB has not achieved broad formal adoption or official standardization, and its use remains limited to experimental or research contexts. Users should consider compatibility with existing profiles, gamuts, and perceptual metrics when evaluating its suitability.