Prussian Blue
General Information about Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue, represented by the hex code #013558, is a deep and rich shade of blue with historical significance. It was first synthesized in the early 18th century and quickly became a popular pigment due to its stability, intensity, and affordability. Chemically, it's a complex iron cyanide compound. The color is named after Prussia, as it was widely used in military uniforms and other applications within the Prussian army. In art, Prussian Blue is valued for its ability to create deep shadows and atmospheric effects. Its chemical formula is Fe7(CN)18. It is also known as Berlin Blue or Iron Blue. Prussian Blue's unique properties have led to its use in various industrial applications, including printing inks, paints, and even as an antidote for certain types of heavy metal poisoning.
The hex color #013558, a deep shade of Prussian Blue, presents certain accessibility challenges in web design. Due to its low luminance, it necessitates careful consideration of color contrast ratios, especially when used for text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. When pairing #013558 with lighter colors, it's imperative to verify that the contrast ratio meets these standards to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Using online contrast checkers can help assess the compliance of color combinations. In cases where sufficient contrast cannot be achieved, consider adjusting the text size, font weight, or exploring alternative, lighter color options to enhance accessibility and provide a more inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #0a4d68
A slightly lighter blue offers better readability as a text color on white backgrounds, increasing accessibility.
- #008080
A dark teal provides a similar aesthetic but with a bit more vibrancy, which can make it more visually appealing in some contexts.
- #000080
A dark navy blue offers a classic and professional look, suitable for backgrounds and text. This offers a wider usage due to its high readability.
Applications
Web Development
In web development, Prussian Blue can be effectively used for creating a sophisticated and professional look. It's particularly well-suited for header backgrounds, navigation bars, and accent colors. When using it for text, ensure adequate contrast with the background color to maintain readability. Additionally, Prussian Blue can be incorporated into website branding elements to convey a sense of trust and reliability. Its deep, calming hue can contribute to a positive user experience, making it a versatile choice for a range of web design applications.
Interior Design
In interior design, #013558 (Prussian Blue) can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, especially when paired with lighter neutrals like beige or gray. The color can also be incorporated through furniture, such as a velvet sofa or upholstered chairs, adding a touch of elegance to the space. Additionally, Prussian Blue accessories like cushions, throws, or artwork can provide pops of color and tie the room together.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, Prussian Blue conveys a sense of elegance and confidence. It is a fantastic choice for evening gowns, suits, and professional attire, lending an air of sophistication to the wearer. As an accessory, Prussian Blue works incredibly well in handbags, scarves, and statement jewelry, adding a pop of color to elevate an outfit. Furthermore, this deep hue complements various skin tones, making it a versatile and flattering selection for a range of fashion applications.