Smalt

General Information about #003495 (Smalt)

The color #003495, also known as Smalt, is a deep shade of blue residing in the blue color family. Smalt is a pigment made from potassium glass colored with cobalt(II) oxide. First used for painting in the 15th century, it is made by grinding a cobalt glass made by fusing cobalt oxide, silica, and potassium carbonate. #003495 exhibits a subdued intensity, making it a versatile option for various design applications. Its hexadecimal value confirms its composition, with the first two digits representing the absence of red, followed by a moderate presence of green and a significant amount of blue. In terms of color theory, #003495 conveys a sense of trust, stability, and intelligence. It is often associated with professionalism and reliability. The color is widely used in web design, branding, and other visual communications to elicit these emotions and create a sense of authority.

The hex color #003495, also known as Smalt, presents several accessibility considerations, particularly in web design. Its dark hue necessitates careful selection of foreground colors 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. When using #003495 as a background, pairing it with light colors like white (#FFFFFF) or very light grays can achieve the required contrast. However, relying solely on color to convey information should be avoided. Always provide alternative cues, such as text labels or icons, to ensure that users with color vision deficiencies can still understand the content. Proper testing with accessibility evaluation tools is crucial to validate the color choices and overall design.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design Backgrounds

  In web design, #003495 can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or navigation bars. Its deep, calming tone evokes trust and professionalism, making it suitable for corporate websites or educational platforms. It pairs well with clean, minimalist designs. When incorporating this color, it is crucial to use enough contrast with text and interactive elements to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it for call-to-action buttons with white or yellow text to draw attention effectively. Be mindful of its intensity and balance it with lighter shades to create a harmonious visual experience.

• Interior Design Accents

  In interior design, #003495 (Smalt) can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works particularly well in bedrooms or studies, where a sense of tranquility is desired. Consider using it as an accent wall color or for upholstery on furniture pieces. Pair it with neutral tones like beige or gray to balance its intensity. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can add a touch of elegance. The key is to use it sparingly and strategically to avoid overwhelming the space. Incorporate natural elements, like wood or plants, to add warmth and create a balanced aesthetic.

• Data Visualizations

  #003495 can be effectively employed in creating visually appealing data visualizations, such as charts and graphs. Its distinct hue ensures that data series are easily distinguishable, particularly when used in conjunction with lighter or complementary colors. When designing dashboards, utilizing this color for key performance indicators or interactive elements can draw the user's attention to critical information. It's essential to maintain consistency in color usage across the visualization to promote clarity and prevent misinterpretation. For reports and presentations, a harmonious palette incorporating #003495 can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal while conveying information effectively.

Complementary color

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