An example-based method and system for electronic display color calibration is provided. By comparing the colors of commonly available objects with a color database under a controlled lighting condition, the user adjusts the gain and offset parameters of the Red, Green and Blue color components of the display. Two different methods are provided, wherein one method involves manipulating the comparison colors in the RGB color space, and the other method involves manipulating the comparison colors in the CIE x-y plane. Two different systems that incorporate the example-based color calibration methods are also provided, wherein one system directly implements the calibration method in the television system, while the other system implements the calibration method as a separate tool for viewers to calibrate the color of their displays.