Prussian Blue
General Information about Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue, represented by the hex code #023455, is a deep, dark shade of blue with subtle hints of green. It's a color associated with depth, stability, and intelligence. The color's name originates from its historical use as a pigment in Prussian military uniforms and artwork. Chemically, Prussian blue is a complex iron cyanide compound, which gives it its distinctive hue. In the RGB color model, #023455 is composed of 0.78% red, 20.39% green, and 33.33% blue. In the CMYK color model, its components are 97% cyan, 39% magenta, 0% yellow, and 67% black. This color is often used in design to evoke feelings of calmness and professionalism, and it is frequently employed in corporate branding and web design.
The hex color #023455, also known as Prussian Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, text needs to be carefully selected to ensure sufficient contrast. 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 standards. Given the darkness of Prussian Blue, lighter colors like white, yellow, or light gray are suitable choices for text. Tools like contrast checkers can precisely measure the contrast ratio. When using this color for interactive elements, ensure sufficient visual cues beyond color alone are present. Consider adding borders or using icons to help users perceive the element's state or function. It's also important to evaluate color blindness to make designs more inclusive.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Prussian Blue, with its depth and sophistication, makes an excellent choice for website headers and footers. Its dark tone provides a professional and calming feel, ideal for creating a strong first impression or a lasting sense of stability at the bottom of the page. Consider pairing it with clean, minimalist typography in white or light gray to maximize readability and visual appeal. Using it in navigation bars can also provide a clear visual separation of main sections on the website.
Interior Design Accent Walls
In the realm of interior design, Prussian Blue can be utilized to create accent walls that exude elegance and depth. This color works exceptionally well in studies, libraries, or bedrooms, where a sense of tranquility and focus is desired. It can be complemented with warm, natural materials like wood and leather to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. Accents in gold or brass can further enhance the luxurious feel of the space.
Corporate Branding
Prussian Blue lends itself well to corporate branding, especially for companies wishing to convey trustworthiness, stability, and intelligence. It is a suitable choice for logos, business cards, and marketing materials in fields such as finance, law, and technology. Paired with a modern, clean font, Prussian Blue can establish a strong brand identity that resonates with a sophisticated audience. It’s important to consider the cultural context in which the color is used, as meanings can slightly vary across different regions.