Prussian Blue
General Information about Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue, represented by the hex code #013356, is a deep, saturated shade of blue with a rich history. It was one of the first modern synthetic pigments, discovered accidentally in the early 18th century. Chemically, it's an iron hexacyanoferrate, giving it its distinctive color. The pigment was widely used in paints, inks, and dyes, prized for its stability and affordability. The color is often associated with sophistication, depth, and formality, making it a popular choice in various applications, from art to design. Its dark hue makes it a strong and impactful color, though it requires careful consideration for accessibility, particularly in digital contexts, due to its low lightness value. The color got the name due to its usage in military uniforms in the 18th and 19th century.
The hex color #013356, a deep shade of Prussian Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its very low lightness value (dark color) means that it requires extremely light text or interface elements to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast. Using it with dark or mid-toned colors will likely result in insufficient contrast, making content difficult or impossible for users with visual impairments to read or interact with. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Before using this color for important visual elements, careful contrast testing is essential using online contrast checkers. A lighter tint of #013356 or using it sparingly as an accent color may improve accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Financial Website Design
Prussian Blue's depth and sophistication make it suitable for creating a sense of trust and reliability in financial websites. It can be used for website backgrounds, headings, and key call-to-action buttons, paired with lighter complementary colors for contrast and visual interest. Its serious tone is well suited for communicating professionalism and stability in branding and user interfaces.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Prussian Blue acts as a dramatic accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms. Combine it with warm neutrals like cream or beige to balance the coolness. Consider using it for upholstery or decorative items to add a touch of elegance and sophistication. It works well with both modern and traditional aesthetics, bringing a sense of depth and richness to the space.
Corporate Branding
Prussian blue evokes a sense of formality and tradition. It can be incorporated into branding for law firms or corporate entities, often seen in logos, business cards, and website designs. This dark hue conveys trustworthiness, authority, and competence. The color is frequently paired with gold or silver accents to create a luxurious and professional image.