Prussian Blue

About Prussian Blue

Prussian Blue, represented by the hex code #012E5C, is a deep, rich shade of blue known for its historical significance and widespread use across various fields. It's a color often associated with intellect, stability, and authority, making it a popular choice for branding in industries such as finance, education, and technology. Chemically, Prussian Blue is a complex iron cyanide compound, which was originally synthesized accidentally in the early 18th century. The color's unique hue and excellent lightfastness quickly made it a valuable pigment for artists and dyers. Its chemical stability also made it useful in the creation of blueprints, hence the term 'blueprint blue'. Today, Prussian Blue continues to be used in a wide array of applications, from fine art and industrial coatings to digital design and fashion, retaining its appeal as a color of sophistication and reliability.

The hex color #012E5C, also known as Prussian Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Failure to achieve adequate contrast can hinder users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. Careful consideration should be given to the color pairings to ensure usability for all users. Tools are available online to calculate contrast ratios between different colors, aiding developers in making informed decisions and improving accessibility. Using a slightly lighter shade of blue or a darker text color might be necessary to achieve optimal contrast. Additionally, providing alternative visual cues, such as icons or underlines, can further enhance accessibility for users who may struggle with color perception alone.

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Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design

  Prussian Blue, #012E5C, is frequently employed in website design to evoke feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism. It serves as an excellent background color for headers, footers, or sidebars. The color can also be utilized to highlight important call-to-action buttons or links. Its dark and serious tone makes it well-suited for corporate websites, financial institutions, and educational platforms, creating a visual experience that instills confidence and reliability in the viewer. Used sparingly, it can add an element of sophistication and class to any digital interface, fostering a positive user experience.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Prussian Blue can bring a sense of depth and sophistication to a space. It works well as an accent color on walls, furniture, or decorative items. When combined with lighter colors like cream or beige, it creates a balanced and harmonious atmosphere. The color can be used in bedrooms to promote relaxation or in living rooms to create a cozy and inviting environment. Prussian Blue's calming effect makes it a great choice for creating a serene and elegant living space that fosters tranquility and comfort.

• Fashion

  In the fashion industry, Prussian Blue is often used to create classic and elegant looks. It can be incorporated into dresses, suits, and outerwear, providing a sophisticated and timeless appeal. The color pairs well with neutral tones such as gray, black, and white, as well as bolder colors like gold or red. Prussian Blue adds a touch of refinement to any wardrobe, making it a versatile choice for both casual and formal wear. Its ability to convey both confidence and style makes it a staple in many fashion collections.

Complementary color

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