Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt
The color #0040CA, commonly known as Cobalt, is a deep and rich shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 0% red, 25.1% green, and 79.2% blue. This hexadecimal color is often associated with feelings of trust, stability, and authority, making it a popular choice for branding in various industries. Cobalt derives its name from the German word 'kobalt,' historically associated with spirits or goblins because miners found it difficult to extract valuable metals from cobalt-containing ores. Cobalt blue pigment was first synthesized in the early 19th century and quickly became a favorite among artists due to its intense color and stability. Today, Cobalt continues to be widely used in paints, dyes, and digital displays.
The color #0040CA, also known as Cobalt, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly regarding color contrast. When used as text against a white background, it may not meet the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standard for contrast ratio, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. To improve accessibility, consider pairing it with lighter backgrounds or using it for larger text elements. Using Cobalt for interactive elements such as buttons or links, requires careful consideration of the contrast ratio to ensure they are easily identifiable. It's beneficial to add visual cues, like an underline or a border to increase visibility and ensure usability. It's also beneficial to provide alternatives and ensure the website is accessible.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Corporate Website Design
Cobalt, with its deep blue hue, exudes sophistication and can be effectively used in website designs for financial institutions or corporate firms to convey trust and stability. It can be incorporated into backgrounds, call-to-action buttons, and informational graphics, providing a consistent brand identity. The color should be used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user and maintain readability. It is best to mix this color with white or lighter shades of grey.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Cobalt makes a bold statement and is often seen in evening wear or statement pieces. Its richness complements both warm and cool skin tones, making it a versatile color for various clothing styles. To ensure that the dress stands out, pair it with white or lighter colors.
Interior Design
Cobalt can add a pop of color to interior spaces, especially when used as an accent wall or in decorative accessories. Its vibrancy works well in modern and minimalist designs. In interior design it is commonly mixed with white, brown and grey.