Prussian Blue
General Information about Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #003050, is a deep, rich shade of blue with a subtle hint of green. It is a dark color, often associated with depth, stability, and sophistication. Historically, Prussian Blue was one of the first synthetic pigments, discovered in the early 18th century. It quickly became a popular color for artists and dyers due to its affordability and colorfastness. The color is made of iron compounds, and is also known under the name Berlin Blue or Paris Blue. It is considered non-toxic for humans. Its chemical stability and intense color also made it valuable in printing inks and paints. Today, Prussian Blue continues to be used in a variety of applications, from art and design to industrial coatings and medical treatments.
The hex color #003050, also known as Prussian Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text (ideally white or a very pale shade) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Due to its darkness, avoid pairing it with other dark colors. Additionally, consider users with visual impairments who might have difficulty distinguishing subtle color differences. Providing alternative cues, such as text labels or icons, can improve the usability for those users. When using this color, always prioritize clear visual hierarchy and sufficient contrast to create an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #004777
A slightly lighter blue that still retains the depth of Prussian Blue but offers better contrast with darker text.
- #4682b4
A muted gray-blue that provides a more neutral backdrop and can be paired with a wider range of text colors.
- #002147
Oxford Blue is a very dark navy blue that is close to Prussian Blue. If you want a color with high contrast to lighter colors, Oxford Blue can be used.
Applications
Corporate Website Background
Prussian Blue (#003050) can serve as a sophisticated background color for websites or applications related to finance, technology, or corporate sectors. Its deep hue conveys trust and stability, making it suitable for headers, footers, or sidebars. When combined with a clean, minimalist design and a sans-serif typeface, it projects a professional and modern image. The color works best with white or light gray text to provide sufficient contrast and readability.
Accent Wall Color
In interior design, Prussian Blue can be used as an accent wall color to add depth and drama to a room. It pairs well with neutral tones such as beige, gray, and white, as well as natural materials like wood and stone. The color can also be incorporated through furniture upholstery, decorative pillows, or artwork to create a calming and elegant atmosphere. The color will make a room feel smaller, so it is best suited for larger rooms.
Fashion Design
Prussian Blue, reminiscent of both the sea and twilight skies, can be used to add sophistication to evening gowns, business suits, and casual wear. It pairs well with both cool and warm colors, and materials like silk, cotton and satin. It looks stunning when paired with silver or gold accessories, and can be used as both a subtle or strong addition to any garment. As a dark and elegant color, it is a good fit for parties and formal events.