Prussian Blue
General Information about Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue, represented by the hex code #00334e, is a deep, rich shade of blue with subtle green undertones. It derives its name from the pigment first synthesized in the early 18th century, known for its stability, intensity, and relatively low cost. Chemically, Prussian Blue is a complex iron cyanide compound. The color is widely used across various industries, including painting, dyeing, and printing. In digital contexts, #00334e offers a sophisticated and calming presence, often associated with depth, stability, and trustworthiness. Its relatively low brightness requires careful consideration of contrast when used with text or other interactive elements, making accessibility a key factor in its effective application. In terms of color theory, Prussian Blue resides in the cool spectrum, making it suitable for backgrounds and accent elements where a sense of tranquility or formality is desired.
The hex color #00334e, a deep shade of Prussian Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly for text. Its low luminance value of 0.026 means that it requires very light text to achieve sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is needed for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Given this color's darkness, only very light colors like white (#FFFFFF) or near-white shades will likely meet these requirements. When using #00334e for backgrounds or other design elements, careful consideration should be given to the color of any text or interactive elements placed on top. It's essential to test the contrast ratio using accessibility tools to ensure compliance and provide a positive user experience for individuals with visual impairments. Also, avoid using this color as a primary color for data visualization as it might be difficult to distinguish from other dark shades. Using it for large graphical elements or as an accent color is generally safer.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
User Interface Design
Prussian Blue, reminiscent of deep ocean waters and twilight skies, brings a sense of depth and tranquility to user interfaces. It’s particularly well-suited for backgrounds in dark-themed applications, dashboards, or control panels where a sophisticated and calming aesthetic is desired. Its deep hue creates a strong visual hierarchy, making key elements stand out. In UI design, Prussian Blue can effectively communicate reliability, stability, and trust. Further more, it can be combined with accent colors like teal or light yellow to create an engaging and user-friendly experience.
Fashion Design
Prussian Blue is a classic and versatile color choice for formal wear, lending an air of sophistication and confidence. It is perfect for suits, dresses, and evening gowns. It serves as an excellent alternative to black, offering depth and visual interest without being too overpowering. Its rich tone is suitable for various skin tones and can be paired with accessories in metallics such as gold or silver, as well as complementary colors like coral or mustard yellow, creating striking and elegant ensembles. Consider this color for any business attire, or gala dress!
Interior Design
Prussian Blue evokes a sense of serenity and stability, making it an excellent choice for creating calming and inviting spaces. It works exceptionally well in bedrooms, studies, or living rooms, particularly when paired with neutral tones like beige, cream, or gray. Its depth adds character to walls, furniture, and textiles. Accents of warm colors, such as terracotta or golden yellow, can add a touch of energy and balance the cool undertones of Prussian Blue. It is commonly seen in coastal homes, or vintage styled apartments.