From ancient Chinese alchemists experimenting with early gunpowder (circa 600–900 AD) to today’s dazzling capitalist shows, fireworks' colors stem from elemental chemistry specifically metal salts ignited to emit signature hues. 

Here's how it works in four key ingredients: a fuel, an oxidizer, color-producing salts, and a binder that holds stars together. When ignited, metal salt atoms’ electrons get energized and release photons visible colors in the sky.

Popular hues and their chemical drivers include :- 

• Red: strontium or lithium salts
• Green: barium compounds
• Blue: copper-based salts (tricky to perfect)

Behind the scenes, pyrotechnicians balance chemicals and temperature precisely to produce vivid, pure colors; blue remains especially elusive against the night sky because many TVs and even viewers’ eyes struggle to capture it. 

In essence, each spark and hue is a tiny chemistry show fire, elements, light, and craftsmanship all play their part in that awe-inspiring, fleeting burst.