Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt (#004AB4)
Cobalt, represented by the hexadecimal color code #004AB4, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It is often associated with qualities such as stability, trust, and intelligence. In color psychology, blue is known to evoke feelings of calmness and security. The specific hue of Cobalt is reminiscent of the pigment derived from cobalt salts, which has been used in art and industry for centuries. This color is located in the blue region of the color spectrum, closer to indigo than cyan. It has a relatively low luminance value, meaning it appears darker compared to lighter blues. Understanding its properties is important for effective use in design.
The hex color #004AB4, also known as Cobalt, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its relatively low luminance. When used as a background color, it requires careful consideration of the foreground text color. A light color such as white (#FFFFFF) or a very light shade of yellow or green should be employed to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. It is crucial to verify the contrast ratio using accessibility tools to meet these standards. Also, avoid using this color for small, intricate icons or elements, as its dark nature can make them difficult to discern, especially for users with visual impairments. Providing alternative themes with higher contrast options will improve the accessibility of your website. Testing with tools like the WebAIM Contrast Checker will allow the web developer to check their designs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Primary Buttons
Cobalt (#004AB4) can be used for primary buttons to give a sense of authority and reliability. It is a good choice for websites in the financial or technological sectors. Combining it with a brighter accent color, such as a shade of yellow or orange, can draw attention to calls to action. It’s crucial to ensure the text on the button has sufficient contrast for accessibility. Using it in combination with a clean, sans-serif font will enhance the modern feel of the interface. Furthermore, consider adding hover effects to provide users with visual feedback.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Cobalt (#004AB4) can be used as an accent wall color to create a focal point in a room. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige or gray. The richness of cobalt adds depth and sophistication, especially when combined with metallic accents like gold or silver. In a living room, a cobalt-colored sofa can be a striking statement piece. It is also a good color choice for accessories like cushions, vases, and artwork. Consider the lighting in the room to showcase the color's richness.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Cobalt (#004AB4) is often used for dresses or statement pieces like jackets. It's a versatile color that can be dressed up or down. It complements both warm and cool skin tones and pairs well with neutral colors such as black, white, and gray. For a bold look, consider pairing it with complementary colors like orange or yellow. Accessorizing with silver or gold jewelry can further elevate the look. Cobalt-colored handbags or shoes can add a pop of color to any outfit. When designing clothing, consider fabrics with a slight sheen to enhance the richness of the color.