Prussian Blue
About Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue, represented by the hex code #003355, is a deep, saturated shade of blue with historical significance. It was one of the first synthetic pigments, discovered accidentally in the early 18th century. Chemically, it's an iron hexacyanoferrate complex. The color is known for its rich, intense hue and excellent lightfastness. Prussian Blue has been widely used in various applications, including paints, inks, and dyes. It's a popular color in art, particularly for landscapes and seascapes. Its distinctive shade results from the specific arrangement of iron and cyanide ions within its molecular structure. This pigment played a role in the development of blueprint technology due to its chemical properties.
The hex color #003355, a deep shade of Prussian Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value means it requires careful consideration when used for text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. When using #003355 as a background, ensure that the foreground text color provides a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. White or very light shades of yellow or green are good candidates for foreground text. Avoid pairing it with darker colors, as this will likely fail accessibility standards. Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker can help verify compliance. Using this color for purely decorative elements poses less of an accessibility concern, but keep the overall design in mind to prevent eye strain.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Prussian Blue (#003355) brings a sense of depth and sophistication, making it an excellent choice for website backgrounds, headers, or call-to-action buttons. Its calming yet authoritative tone can enhance the credibility and professionalism of corporate websites, especially those in finance, technology, or consulting. Combining it with a crisp white or light gray creates a modern and trustworthy aesthetic. For interactive elements, ensure sufficient contrast to maintain accessibility and user experience. This color evokes trust and can be utilized to create a strong brand identity.
Interior Design
In interior design, Prussian Blue acts as a grounding element. It can be used for accent walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories like cushions and throws. Paired with warm neutrals like beige or cream, it creates a balanced and inviting atmosphere. It also works well with natural materials like wood and leather, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. This color is ideal for creating a cozy yet refined living space, injecting personality and character. In bedrooms, it may promote a sense of calm and serenity.
Fashion
Prussian Blue exudes elegance and sophistication, making it a popular choice for formal wear, evening gowns, and sophisticated business attire. As a solid, neutral color, it looks particularly chic when paired with metallic accessories like gold or silver or brighter accent colors like coral or mustard. It is also a good choice for outerwear because it camouflages imperfections. Moreover, this hex code can serve as a subtle base for eye makeup. It pairs very well with a smokey eye or a nude lip.