Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#003198)
The hexadecimal color #003198, also known as Smalt, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and evokes feelings of trust, stability, and depth. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0% red, 19.22% green, and 59.61% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 100% cyan, 68% magenta, 0% yellow, and 40% black. This color is often associated with professionalism and is commonly used in corporate branding and designs. Smalt derives its name from a blue pigment made by grinding cobalt glass. Historically, smalt was used in paints, ceramics, and other decorative arts.
The color #003198, a deep shade of blue known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based contexts. When used as a background color, it requires a very light foreground color to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to meet WCAG AA standards. For optimal accessibility, consider using white (#FFFFFF) or a very light gray as the foreground color. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can help verify compliance. Avoid pairing this color with dark or similarly hued colors, as this can cause visual strain and make content inaccessible to users with visual impairments. Thoughtful application of this color, considering contrast ratios and user needs, is essential for creating inclusive designs.
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Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Corporate Website Design
In web design, Smalt (#003198) can be used to create a sense of trust, stability, and professionalism. It's an excellent choice for the primary color of a corporate website, particularly in the finance or technology sectors. It can also be effectively used in navigation bars, headers, and footers to provide a consistent visual experience. When using it for buttons or interactive elements, ensure sufficient contrast with the text and surrounding elements to maintain usability. The deepness of the color can also be implemented in backgrounds for a visual aesthetic.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Smalt can add a touch of sophistication and depth to a room. It works well as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a calming and relaxing atmosphere. Pair it with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white to balance the intensity of the blue. Smalt can also be used in furniture upholstery or decorative accessories to add a pop of color to a space. Consider using different textures and materials to enhance the richness of the color and create visual interest.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, Smalt is a versatile color that can be incorporated into various outfits. It can be used for formal wear, such as suits or dresses, to convey a sense of elegance and confidence. It can also be used for casual wear, such as jeans or sweaters, to add a touch of sophistication to a relaxed look. Smalt pairs well with other colors, such as white, black, gray, and even contrasting colors like yellow or orange. Consider using Smalt in accessories, such as scarves or handbags, to add a pop of color to an outfit.