Black Pearl
General Information
The hex color #020826, often referred to as "Black Pearl", is a very dark shade of blue-black. It belongs to the family of almost black colors, exhibiting minimal reflectance and a very low lightness value. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.78% red, 3.14% green, and 14.9% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 95% cyan, 79% magenta, 0% yellow, and 85% black. This color often evokes feelings of sophistication, mystery, and depth. Due to its darkness, it is frequently used to create a sense of luxury and exclusivity, or to add a dramatic flair to designs. Black Pearl's subtlety makes it a versatile choice for creating backgrounds or accents that need to appear dark but not completely black, which can sometimes appear harsh.
The hex color #020826, also known as Black Pearl, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its extremely low luminance. Its contrast ratio against white text is critically low, failing to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for normal text (4.5:1) and large text (3:1). This means that using white text on a #020826 background would be difficult or impossible for users with visual impairments to read. Similarly, using #020826 text on a white background would pose readability issues. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter text colors, such as shades of gray or off-white, or pairing #020826 with significantly lighter background colors. Text shadows or outlines can sometimes help but are not always reliable. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure sufficient contrast and readability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, Black Pearl can be used sparingly for header backgrounds or subtle accents to create a luxurious and mysterious feel. Due to its low visibility, it should be paired with lighter, contrasting elements to ensure readability and avoid eye strain. It's best suited for designs targeting a niche audience or those prioritizing aesthetics over absolute usability. Consider using it for elements like dividers, borders, or very large typography where readability is less critical.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Black Pearl can serve as a dramatic accent wall color in a home theater or study. It evokes a sense of depth and sophistication, especially when paired with metallic accents like gold or silver. Lighter-colored furniture and decor should be used to balance the darkness and prevent the room from feeling claustrophobic. The color is suitable for creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere in spaces intended for relaxation and entertainment.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, Black Pearl can be used for evening wear or accessories to add a touch of elegance and intrigue. It pairs well with metallic fabrics, sequins, and gemstone embellishments. The color is especially effective when used in sheer or textured fabrics to create visual interest. It's also a popular choice for leather goods, such as handbags and shoes, due to its luxurious and understated appearance. Be mindful in only using this color for statement pieces or to be paired with brighter colors.