Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#012F97)
The hexadecimal color #012F97, commonly referred to as Smalt, is a dark shade of blue. It is composed of 0.39% red, 18.43% green, and 59.22% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to R:1, G:47, B:151. The color is often associated with feelings of trustworthiness, stability, and professionalism. Smalt has a rich history, dating back to the 15th century, when it was created by grinding cobalt glass. Historically, Smalt pigment was used extensively in paintings and ceramic glazes, known for its characteristic blue hue. Today, the color continues to be used in a variety of applications, including graphic design, web development, and interior decoration.
The color #012F97, a deep smalt blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its low luminance value (close to black) means that sufficient contrast with foreground elements is crucial for readability. When using this color as a background, ensure that text or other interactive elements have a high contrast ratio, ideally meeting WCAG AA or AAA standards. Light shades of yellow, white, or other high-luminance colors would be suitable choices for foreground elements. Avoid pairing this color with dark shades of gray, blues, or greens, as this will create insufficient contrast and make content difficult to perceive for users, especially those with visual impairments. Consider using contrast checking tools to verify compliance with accessibility guidelines. Thoughtful color choices are key to creating inclusive and accessible web experiences.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #012F97 can be used to create a professional and trustworthy feel. Its deep blue hue is suitable for backgrounds in the header or footer sections of websites, particularly those related to finance, technology, or corporate services. The color can also be used for button backgrounds, link highlights, or other interactive elements, provided that sufficient contrast is maintained with the foreground text or icons. It can also be effectively used to highlight key information, important disclaimers or in charts and graphs to illustrate data points.
Interior Design
In interior design, #012F97 can be incorporated to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. Consider using it as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, or for upholstery in furniture. The color pairs well with neutral tones such as white, gray, or beige, and can be complemented with metallic accents like gold or silver for a touch of elegance. However, avoid using the color in rooms that requires active environment because it can be perceived as a passive color.
Fashion
In fashion, #012F97 is suitable for creating sophisticated and elegant looks. It can be used for formal wear such as evening gowns or suits, or as an accent color in accessories like scarves or handbags. The color pairs well with neutral colors such as black, white, or gray, and can be complemented with metallic accents like gold or silver. Consider using it in combination with other colors such as red, orange or yellow to brighten the look.