Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt (#0146B3)
The hex color #0146B3, also known as Cobalt, is a deep shade of blue that evokes feelings of trust, stability, and intelligence. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.4% red, 27.5% green, and 70.2% blue. Its CMYK values are 99.6% cyan, 60.8% magenta, 0% yellow, and 29.8% black. Cobalt is often associated with corporate branding, technology, and institutions, where its serious and reliable nature is highly valued. The color's depth also makes it suitable for creating a sense of sophistication and elegance in design. It has a wavelength of 467.78 nm. Cobalt is a dark medium blue. It's used in paints, dyes, and printing inks. The color name comes from the mineral cobaltite, which is a source of the element cobalt.
The hex color #0146B3, also known as Cobalt, presents certain accessibility challenges, especially concerning color contrast. When used as a foreground color for text, it requires careful consideration of the background color to ensure 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. Given Cobalt's dark nature, it's best paired with very light colors such as white or very pale yellows to meet these standards. Failure to provide adequate contrast can exclude users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. Additionally, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of interactive elements, such as links or buttons, as colorblind users may not be able to distinguish them. Always supplement color cues with text labels or other visual indicators to ensure inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against dark backgrounds, ensuring readability and accessibility.
- #6495ed
A more neutral shade of blue that works well in various design contexts and offers good contrast when paired with appropriate foreground colors.
- #0077cc
A vibrant blue tone, offering a balance between visual appeal and accessibility considerations.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Cobalt (#0146B3) can be used to create a sense of trust and stability, especially in financial or corporate websites. It's often employed for primary brand colors, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons. However, due to its darkness, care must be taken to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements. For instance, white or light gray text on a Cobalt background can create a professional and accessible design. Additionally, this color can be used for subtle background accents or graphical elements to add depth and sophistication to the overall design.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, Cobalt can be used to create bold and sophisticated outfits. It can be paired with neutral colors like gray, black, or white for a classic look, or with contrasting colors like yellow or orange for a more daring statement. Cobalt-colored accessories, such as scarves or handbags, can add a pop of color to any ensemble. The color can be incorporated in various textures such as silk, velvet, and cotton.
Interior Design
In interior design, Cobalt can serve as an accent color in a room. It can be applied through decorative elements like throw pillows, artwork, or painted accent walls to introduce a touch of drama and visual interest. When combined with lighter and more neutral tones, such as white, beige, or light gray, Cobalt can create a balanced and harmonious space. This color can be integrated in rugs, vases and curtains.