Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#023D96)
The color #023D96, commonly known as Smalt, is a deep, saturated blue hue that evokes feelings of calmness and sophistication. It resides in the blue color family, characterized by its low saturation and luminosity, contributing to its perceived depth. In the RGB color model, it's composed of 0.78% red, 24.08% green, and 58.82% blue. The CMYK representation is 99% cyan, 59% magenta, 0% yellow, and 41% black. Smalt derives its name from the powdered blue glass used as a pigment, historically significant in paintings and ceramics. Its hex code, #023D96, uniquely identifies it within the digital color spectrum, enabling precise reproduction across various media.
The color #023D96, also known as Smalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of approximately 3.7 cd/m² results in very poor contrast against white text, failing WCAG standards for normal and large text sizes. To ensure readability, pairing this color with very light shades such as whites, creams, or pale yellows is crucial. When used for interactive elements such as buttons or links, ensure a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is achieved against background and adjacent colors. Providing sufficient color contrast will greatly improve accessibility for users with low vision or color blindness, enhancing their overall user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e64fe
A slightly lighter blue that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #002663
A darker, richer blue that can be used to create a more dramatic effect.
- #6495ed
A softer, muted blue that offers a calmer, more subtle feel, suitable for backgrounds or less prominent elements where high contrast isn't essential.
Applications
Web Development Accent
In web development, #023D96 can serve as an accent color, bringing depth to a website's design. However, due to its darkness, it should not be overused. Ideal placements are in headers, navigation bars, or as a highlight for call-to-action buttons when paired with appropriately contrasting text. In data visualization, it can represent a specific category in charts, providing a distinctive visual cue. Consider using it sparingly to draw attention to specific data points. Its use in backgrounds is limited due to accessibility concerns but can be effective for short banners or dividers if paired with a highly contrasting text color.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Smalt (#023D96) can be applied to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It works exceptionally well as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, particularly when complemented by neutral tones like beige, gray, or white. To maintain a sense of balance and openness, avoid using it in small or poorly lit rooms. Consider incorporating it into decorative elements such as cushions, rugs, or artwork, to infuse a space with a touch of elegance without overwhelming the design. Its rich tone pairs beautifully with metallic accents like gold or copper, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Beauty and Makeup
In the beauty industry, #023D96 can be utilized to create striking and memorable looks, especially for evening wear. As an eyeshadow, it can define and enhance the eyes, pairing beautifully with silver or gold shimmer. It can also be used as an eyeliner, creating a bold and sophisticated effect. Its deep hue is also suitable for nail polish, particularly for formal occasions or as a statement color. However, it is essential to balance the look with softer tones on the lips and cheeks to prevent an overly dramatic effect, thus maintaining a harmonious overall appearance.