A color characterization profile format and data structure are provided for allowing a color management solution to convert colors into or out of a color space. The color characterization profile format contains a color management measurement data portion and a container that is configured to provide digital rights management capabilities over the color characterization profile format. The container can include linked and embedded objects and extensible markup language. Further, the container can be an advanced systems format container. The container can be configured to perform different functions, including enabling private data extensions, operating interface description language, storing a rendering intent separate from the color management measurement data portion, the ability to be edited by a text editor application, operability across a plurality of operating platforms, and preventing a user from tampering with the color characterization profile format.