Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt (#003FBA)
Cobalt, represented by the hexadecimal color code #003FBA, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. It is named after the element Cobalt, which produces a similar hue in pigments and dyes. Cobalt has a rich history, dating back to ancient times, where it was used to color glass and ceramics. In the RGB color model, Cobalt is composed of 0% red, 25% green, and 73% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 100% cyan, 66% magenta, 0% yellow, and 27% black. The color is often associated with qualities like trust, stability, intelligence, and authority. It is widely used in various applications, including art, design, and technology, and it invokes a sense of calmness and professionalism.
The hex color #003fba, also known as Cobalt, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its relatively low luminance of 12% necessitates careful consideration of color contrast ratios. When used as a background color, it requires a light text color to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text. Black text on a Cobalt background would fail accessibility standards, while white or very light yellow text would generally pass. Designers should use color contrast checkers to ensure compliance. Avoid using this color for essential information or interactive elements without sufficient contrast. Providing alternative text descriptions for images and ensuring keyboard navigability will further enhance accessibility. Careful use of Cobalt can make websites more inclusive.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design and UI Elements
Cobalt is a versatile color in web design, often used for primary buttons, navigation bars, and link highlights. Its boldness attracts attention, guiding users to key interactive elements. However, it should be used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user interface. In data visualization, Cobalt can effectively represent important data categories. It is well-suited for financial dashboards, scientific charts, and business reports where clarity and impact are essential. Furthermore, it is suitable for UI elements such as loaders and progress bars.
Fashion and Interior Design
In the fashion industry, Cobalt is a popular choice for statement pieces and accessories. It adds a vibrant pop of color to any outfit and complements neutral tones like gray, black, and white. Cobalt dresses, handbags, and shoes can elevate a simple look. The color works equally well for both casual and formal wear. In interior design, Cobalt can be used to create a bold and modern accent wall. Cobalt-colored furniture or decorative items can add a touch of luxury to a room. It pairs well with metallic accents like gold and silver.
Branding
Cobalt finds applications in branding for technology companies, financial institutions, and educational organizations. It evokes feelings of trust, stability, and innovation, making it an ideal choice for companies seeking to project a professional image. The color is used in logos, marketing materials, and website designs. By using cobalt in combination with white or light gray, the organization can create a modern and elegant appearance. Overall, it provides a trustworthy perception.