Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt (#023BB2)
Cobalt, represented by the hex color code #023BB2, is a deep and vibrant shade of blue. It is named after the element cobalt, which is used to create blue pigments. Cobalt has a rich history and has been used in various art forms, including painting, ceramics, and glassmaking. In color psychology, cobalt is associated with trust, intelligence, stability, and calmness. It is often used in branding and design to convey a sense of professionalism and reliability. The color sits between blue and violet on the color wheel. It has a high blue component with a small amount of red, giving it a unique tone that sets it apart from other shades of blue. Cobalt is a versatile color that can be used to create a variety of moods and effects, depending on the context.
The hex color #023BB2, also known as Cobalt, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used as a foreground color on a white or light background. Its low luminance value (relative darkness) means that the contrast ratio might not meet the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. According to WCAG 2.0, the minimum contrast ratio for normal text is 4.5:1, and for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) it's 3:1. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to pair this color with a very light color for text, or a significantly darker color for the background. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the contrast ratio is sufficient. Using a lighter tint or shade of cobalt might also improve readability, but it's best to test the color combinations before using them on a website to prevent any usability issues for people with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Cobalt can be used to create a professional and trustworthy aesthetic in web design. It's a suitable color for headers, buttons, and navigation bars. By pairing this color with white or other neutral colors, website developers can make the website pleasing to the eye. Because of its calming and trustworthy nature, it is useful for corporate websites and for educational resources, particularly when communicating important information.
Interior Design
In interior design, cobalt can be used as an accent color to add a touch of sophistication and depth. It can be used in wall art or textile design. Cobalt complements neutral colors such as white and grey, or it can be combined with brighter colors such as orange to create a contrast. Because of the calming qualities, it's also a great option for bedroom themes and for home offices, where a relaxed working environment is desired.
Fashion
Cobalt blue is a classic and versatile color that can be used in fashion to create a variety of looks, from casual to elegant. It can be incorporated into clothing items like dresses, shirts, and pants, or used as an accent color in accessories like scarves and handbags. This shade is flattering on a variety of skin tones and can be worn in both casual and formal settings.