Prussian Blue
General Information about Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue, represented by the hex code #013756, is a deep, rich shade of blue known for its historical significance and versatile applications. Discovered in the early 18th century, it was one of the first synthetically produced modern pigments. Chemically, it is an iron hexacyanoferrate complex. The color is characterized by its intense and slightly grayish hue, making it distinct from other blues. Prussian Blue has been widely used in various fields, including art, textile dyeing, and even medicine. Its stability and non-toxicity have contributed to its popularity throughout history. In digital design, Prussian Blue can evoke feelings of trust, stability, and sophistication, making it a popular choice for branding and user interfaces where conveying these qualities is essential.
The hex color #013756, also known as Prussian Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly when used as a background or text color. Its low lightness value (dark shade) means it requires very light foreground colors to achieve 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. Using white (#FFFFFF) text on a #013756 background yields an acceptable contrast ratio, but other colors may not. Web developers should use color contrast analyzers to ensure their color combinations meet accessibility standards, preventing visual impairments. Additionally, it's important to consider users with low vision or color blindness, who may find it difficult to distinguish elements with insufficient contrast. Careful selection of complementary or contrasting colors is crucial for creating inclusive and user-friendly web designs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e5a7f
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but provides better contrast when used with darker text.
- #34495e
A desaturated blue that offers a more muted and subtle appearance, suitable for backgrounds or elements that should not draw too much attention.
- #004577
A similar but slightly brighter blue.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Prussian Blue is an excellent choice for website headers and footers to create a sense of sophistication and professionalism. Its dark hue provides a strong foundation for navigation elements and call-to-action buttons. Using white or light-colored text on a Prussian Blue background ensures readability and visual appeal. Complementary colors like gold or light yellow can be used to highlight key elements and create a visually balanced design. This color is often utilized by companies aiming for a serious and reliable brand image. The color is also useful for creating a sense of depth and importance.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Prussian Blue is often used for accent walls or statement furniture pieces to add a touch of elegance and depth to a room. Its rich, deep tone pairs well with natural materials like wood and leather. The color is particularly effective in creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in living rooms and bedrooms. To balance the darkness of Prussian Blue, incorporate lighter colors such as beige, cream, or white to create a harmonious and visually appealing space. Metal accents, like brass or copper, can further enhance the luxurious feel.
Fashion Elegance
Prussian Blue is used to give fashion a timeless elegance. It can be used as the primary color of an outfit, or as a secondary color in a pattern or design. The color can be used in formal wear, such as suits and dresses, as well as in casual wear, such as jeans and sweaters. Pair with gold, silver or brown to highlight key elements.