Smalt
General Information about #012B9A (Smalt)
The hexadecimal color code #012B9A represents a dark shade of blue, often referred to as Smalt. It's composed of 0.4% red, 17.3% green, and 60.4% blue. In the RGB color space, it can be expressed as rgb(1, 43, 154). This color falls under the category of cool colors, often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and trust. Smalt historically refers to a blue pigment made by grinding cobalt glass. The hex code #012B9A captures the essence of this traditional pigment, bringing its rich and deep hue into the digital realm. Its properties make it suitable for creating a sophisticated, professional or even a dramatic look, depending on how it is used and which colors it is combined with. Due to its intense pigmentation it is not recommended as a background color for large text elements, because of the accessibility guidelines.
The color #012B9A, a deep, saturated blue reminiscent of smalt pigment, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its low luminance value (relative darkness) means it requires very light text (ideally white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. 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 to meet AA compliance. When using #012B9A as a background, careful selection of text color and font size is crucial. Tools that can calculate contrast ratios are essential for verifying compliance. Furthermore, avoid using this color for essential interface elements or controls without adequate contrast, as it can pose usability issues for users with visual impairments. Consider providing alternative color schemes that offer higher contrast for users who need them.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e90ff
A slightly lighter blue that offers better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #000080
A darker shade of blue that can be used to create a more subdued and sophisticated look.
- #4682b4
A desaturated blue alternative which could be used as a background color with sufficient contrast to the main color.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
In web design, Smalt can be used as a primary color for websites related to technology, finance, or corporate sectors to convey trust and stability. It could be a heading color or used for background accents.
Evening Wear Fashion
In fashion, this deep blue can be incorporated into evening wear or accessories, offering a sophisticated and elegant touch. Think about silk scarfs, velvet jackets or satin dresses.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Smalt can be used as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative items. It can create a focal point and add depth to a room, especially when paired with neutral colors like white or gray. Use it for painting a single wall, or as a decorative element in pillows and blankets to add a touch of elegance to the living room.