Smalt
General Information about #023196
The hexadecimal color code #023196 represents a dark shade of blue, often referred to as Smalt. Smalt is a historical pigment made from potassium glass colored with cobalt. In the RGB color model, #023196 is composed of 0.78% red, 19.22% green, and 58.82% blue. Converting to the CMYK color model, it consists of 99% cyan, 67% magenta, 0% yellow, and 41% black. This color is typically associated with feelings of trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. In color psychology, blue promotes a sense of calm and security. It is a popular choice for corporate branding, finance, and technology industries where reliability and stability are key messages. Its deep hue makes it suitable for creating a sophisticated and professional image.
The color #023196, a deep shade of smalt, presents accessibility challenges, particularly when used as text against a white background. Its low luminance results in poor contrast, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. #023196 fails to meet these standards, necessitating careful consideration. To enhance accessibility, it's advisable to pair #023196 with lighter hues. For instance, using white text on a #023196 background improves readability. Employing color contrast tools can aid in verifying compliance with accessibility benchmarks. Additionally, providing alternative cues, such as underlines or icons, can further assist users who struggle to distinguish colors. Remember, inclusive design practices benefit everyone, ensuring content is accessible regardless of visual abilities. Testing with different users and assistive technologies is crucial for a comprehensive accessibility evaluation.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e4a9a
A slightly lighter blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds.
- #2962ff
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color.
- #f0f0f0
A neutral gray can serve as a complementary background for text, enhancing readability and reducing eye strain. It offers a subtle contrast that's easy on the eyes, making it suitable for extended reading sessions or lengthy documents.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #023196 can be effectively employed for headers, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons. Its sophisticated hue conveys trustworthiness and professionalism, making it suitable for corporate websites and financial institutions. However, care must be taken to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements to maintain accessibility. Consider pairing it with lighter shades of blue or white for a balanced and visually appealing design. The color can also be incorporated into website footers or used as a background for testimonials to add depth and visual interest without overwhelming the user.
Interior Design
In interior design, #023196 can be used as an accent color in a room, such as on a feature wall or in decorative accessories. Its deep, calming hue can create a sense of tranquility and sophistication. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray and white, as well as metallic accents like gold and silver. Consider using it in a bedroom or study to promote relaxation and focus. Layering different shades of blue can also add depth and visual interest to a space.
Data Visualization
In the realm of data visualization, the hex color #023196 shines as a powerful tool for conveying insights with clarity and precision. Its deep, saturated hue adds depth and emphasis to charts, graphs, and maps, allowing viewers to quickly grasp key trends and patterns. It serves as a strong visual anchor, guiding the eye through complex data sets and highlighting important relationships. Whether used to represent market share, population density, or sales performance, #023196 lends a touch of sophistication and authority to data-driven narratives.