Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#002A9B)
The hex color #002A9B, also known as Smalt, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its strong presence and slightly muted tone. Smalt derives its name from the finely ground potassium glass containing cobalt, which was historically used as a pigment to produce this distinctive blue hue. In the RGB color model, #002A9B is composed of 0% red, 16.5% green, and 61.2% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 100% cyan, 73% magenta, 0% yellow, and 39% black. This color is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and trust, making it a popular choice for various applications in design and branding. Smalt is often mistaken with cobalt blue, but it has a lighter shade.
The hex color #002a9b, also known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its relatively low luminance. When used as a foreground color, it necessitates careful consideration of the background color to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Therefore, pairing #002a9b with a very light color such as #FFFFFF (white) can provide adequate contrast. However, using it with darker shades may result in text that is difficult to read, especially for individuals with visual impairments. For buttons and interactive elements, ensure sufficient contrast for focus states as well. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to confirm compliance with WCAG standards, as failing to meet these guidelines can exclude users and negatively impact the user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers improved readability against darker backgrounds.
A deeper, richer blue that can provide a more dramatic contrast when used with lighter elements.
A desaturated version of Smalt that may be more suitable for backgrounds or less prominent UI elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Smalt can be used for headers, navigation bars, or as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements. It evokes a sense of trust and stability, making it suitable for financial or corporate websites. Ensure sufficient contrast with text and interactive elements to maintain readability and usability. For example, a white text on a Smalt background can create a visually appealing and accessible design. Consider using it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user with too much dark color. Also, using it for icons is a good choice.
Interior Design
In interior design, Smalt can be used as a wall color or as an accent in furniture and decor. It creates a calming and sophisticated atmosphere, suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. Pair it with lighter colors like white or beige to balance the darkness and create a sense of spaciousness. Consider using Smalt in textiles such as curtains, pillows, or rugs to add depth and visual interest to a room. Metalic or golden accents would be great in combination.
Fashion
In fashion, Smalt can be used in clothing, accessories, or makeup. It complements a variety of skin tones and can be worn as a statement piece or as a subtle accent. Consider pairing Smalt with neutral colors like black, white, or gray for a classic and sophisticated look. In makeup, Smalt can be used as an eyeshadow or eyeliner to create a striking and dramatic effect. For example, a Smalt colored dress would be perfect for a formal occasion.