Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#003B9B)
Smalt, represented by the hexadecimal color code #003B9B, is a deep, muted shade of blue. Historically, the name 'smalt' refers to a pigment made by grinding cobalt glass, which was used extensively in paintings and ceramics. The color evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and trust, making it a popular choice in various design applications. In the RGB color model, #003B9B consists of 0% red, 23.14% green, and 60.78% blue. Its CMYK values are 100% cyan, 62% magenta, 0% yellow, and 39% black. This particular shade of blue is often associated with professionalism and authority, making it suitable for corporate branding and designs where a sense of reliability is desired.
The color #003B9B, also known as Smalt, presents a moderate challenge in terms of accessibility. Its dark hue results in a lower contrast ratio when paired with lighter colors such as white or pale yellow. This lower contrast may pose readability issues for individuals with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. To ensure optimal accessibility, it is recommended to use #003B9B with high-contrast colors, particularly those in the white or very light color spectrum. Tools like contrast checkers can be valuable in assessing the suitability of color combinations. Furthermore, providing alternative text descriptions for images and other visual elements is crucial to ensure that individuals with visual impairments can still access the information conveyed, even if they cannot distinguish the color effectively. Adhering to WCAG guidelines regarding color contrast is essential to create inclusive and accessible designs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Smalt (#003B9B) can be effectively utilized in website headers and footers to create a professional and trustworthy feel. The dark blue hue evokes a sense of stability and authority, making it suitable for businesses in fields such as finance, law, or technology. It works well as a background color for navigation menus and call-to-action buttons, providing a clean and modern look that encourages user engagement. The use of white or light-colored text on this background ensures readability and reinforces a sense of clarity.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Smalt can be used as an accent color in rooms to create a sophisticated and calming environment. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, beige, and white, as well as natural materials such as wood and stone. It can be used for painting accent walls, choosing furniture upholstery, or selecting decorative items like throw pillows and rugs. The color adds depth and visual interest to a space, while also promoting a sense of relaxation and tranquility. It's a particularly good choice for bedrooms, home offices, and living rooms.
Marketing Materials
Smalt is well-suited for creating eye-catching and professional marketing materials. Its rich, dark hue projects trust and sophistication, making it ideal for brochures, business cards, and presentations. Using Smalt as a background for text or graphics can help highlight important information and create a strong visual impact. The color also works well in combination with other complementary colors like yellow or orange to draw attention to key elements and convey a sense of creativity and innovation. This ensures the marketing materials effectively capture the attention of the target audience.