Cobalt
General Information About Cobalt
The hexadecimal color #0041CA, commonly known as Cobalt, is a vibrant and deep shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is often associated with feelings of trust, loyalty, and stability. In the RGB color model, #0041CA is composed of 0% red, 25.5% green, and 79.2% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 100% cyan, 68% magenta, 0% yellow, and 21% black. Cobalt is frequently used in branding and design to convey a sense of professionalism and reliability. Its rich hue makes it suitable for creating visually appealing websites, logos, and marketing materials. It can also be found in various artistic applications, including painting and digital art, where its depth and intensity can add a powerful dimension to the artwork. The name Cobalt is derived from the German word 'kobold', meaning goblin or evil spirit, which miners once attributed to ores that were difficult to refine.
The hex color #0041ca, also known as Cobalt, presents some accessibility challenges due to its relatively low luminance. When used as text on a white background, it may not provide sufficient contrast for users with visual impairments, making it difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Cobalt's contrast ratio might fall short, necessitating the use of a lighter background or a bolder font to improve readability. Conversely, using Cobalt as a background color requires a light-colored text to ensure adequate contrast. When incorporating this color into web designs, developers should prioritize conducting thorough contrast checks using online tools to guarantee compliance with accessibility standards, ensuring content is accessible to all users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Careful consideration of color pairings and text sizes is essential for optimal usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast on white backgrounds, improving readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #002080
A deeper, darker blue that offers increased contrast when used as a background color with light text, ensuring accessibility for users with visual impairments.
- #007fff
A vibrant, saturated blue that can draw attention to key elements, making it useful for interactive designs.
Applications
Web Design
Cobalt (#0041CA) can be used in web design to create a sense of trust and stability. It's a great choice for the primary color in websites for financial institutions or technology companies. Use it for button backgrounds, navigation bars, and headings to establish a professional and reliable feel. Pairing it with a neutral background like white or light gray ensures the blue stands out without overwhelming the user.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cobalt can add a pop of color to a room without being too overwhelming. Use it as an accent color in throw pillows, artwork, or a statement wall to bring a sense of sophistication and depth to a space. Pair it with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white to balance the intensity of the blue and create a calming atmosphere. Cobalt accents work well in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices.
Fashion
Cobalt is a striking color choice for fashion, perfect for making a statement without being too flashy. Use it in clothing such as dresses, blazers, or accessories like scarves and handbags. Cobalt pairs well with neutral colors like black, white, and gray, as well as complementary colors like yellow and orange for a bolder look. It's suitable for both casual and formal wear, adding a touch of elegance and confidence to any outfit.