Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#003E9B)
Smalt, identified by the hexadecimal color code #003E9B, is a deep, dark shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is often associated with qualities like trustworthiness, stability, and depth. In the RGB color model, Smalt is composed of 0% red, 24.3% green, and 61.2% blue. The name 'Smalt' originates from a blue glass or pigment made by grinding potassium glass that had been fused with cobalt oxide. Historically, smalt was used in various applications, including painting, ceramics, and dyeing. Today, it finds use in digital design, web development, and branding, often chosen for its calming and professional appearance. The color evokes feelings of serenity and confidence, making it suitable for industries seeking to project these attributes.
The color #003E9B, also known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of approximately 0.028 means that it is a dark color, offering limited contrast against similarly dark backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Smalt would likely fail these criteria when paired with many shades of gray or black. When using Smalt for text or interactive elements, it's essential to choose a background color that provides sufficient contrast. Lighter shades of yellow, white, or even brighter blues can improve readability and usability. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if a specific color combination meets accessibility standards, ensuring the content is perceivable to a broader audience, including those with low vision or color blindness.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
Smalt can be utilized in website headers and footers to create a sophisticated and professional look. The deep blue color adds a sense of trust and reliability, making it suitable for businesses in the finance or technology sectors. Additionally, consider using Smalt as a background color for call-to-action buttons, paired with a contrasting text color such as white or yellow, to draw the user's attention and encourage interaction. Ensure the contrast ratio meets accessibility guidelines to cater to all users.
Interior Design
In interior design, Smalt can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to add a touch of elegance and depth. Pair it with lighter, neutral colors like beige or gray to create a balanced and calming atmosphere. Smalt also works well in furniture upholstery, such as sofas or armchairs, providing a luxurious and inviting feel. Consider incorporating metallic accents, like gold or silver, to enhance the richness of the color and create a visually appealing space.
Branding
Smalt is an excellent choice for branding materials for companies seeking to convey trust, sophistication, and innovation. Use it in logos, business cards, and marketing collateral to create a consistent and professional image. Combine it with complementary colors such as gold or light gray to enhance visual appeal. Ensure the color scheme reflects the brand's values and resonates with the target audience. Consider how the color will appear in both digital and print media to maintain consistency across all platforms.