Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt Blue
Cobalt (#0250B3) is a deep, saturated shade of blue, often associated with stability, trust, and intelligence. It derives its name from the cobalt ore, which has been used for centuries to produce blue pigments in ceramics and glass. In color theory, cobalt blue sits between cyan and navy blue, possessing a balance of coolness and depth. The hexadecimal color code #0250B3 defines a specific point in the color spectrum, allowing for precise reproduction across digital devices. Its relative darkness makes it well-suited for backgrounds or accent colors, especially when paired with lighter, contrasting hues to ensure readability and visual balance. The color is widely recognized and utilized in various industries, ranging from web design to manufacturing, as it projects a sense of professionalism and reliability.
The color #0250B3, a deep cobalt blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web design. Its low lightness value (approximately 13%) means it requires careful pairing with text and other UI elements to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is necessary for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to meet AA compliance. Using white or very light shades of yellow or green as text on a #0250B3 background is advisable. Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker can help verify compliance. Conversely, using darker shades for text can lead to readability issues. Furthermore, consider users with color vision deficiencies. While cobalt blue is generally distinguishable, avoid relying solely on color to convey crucial information. Employing secondary indicators, such as text labels or icons, enhances usability for all users, regardless of visual abilities.
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Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Financial Applications
Cobalt blue is excellent for creating a sense of trust and stability in financial applications. Its depth and richness convey professionalism, making it ideal for user interfaces related to banking, investments, and insurance. It can be used for primary buttons, backgrounds, and data visualizations, ensuring the user feels secure and confident while navigating the application.
User Interface Design
In user interface design, cobalt blue (#0250B3) can serve as a primary color for creating a sophisticated and trustworthy atmosphere. It works well for header backgrounds, button highlights, and navigational elements, especially in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and technology. To maintain readability and accessibility, it's essential to pair it with contrasting text colors like white or light yellows. Its depth allows for the use of lighter tints and shades to create a cohesive and visually appealing design system.
Fashion Design
Cobalt blue is a classic and sophisticated color choice for formal wear, particularly in evening gowns, suits, and accessories. Its rich, saturated hue can create a bold statement while maintaining an elegant appearance. It pairs well with metallic accents like silver or gold, and can be complemented by neutral colors such as black, white, or gray. Cobalt blue outfits are often seen in high-end fashion shows and red carpet events, representing style and confidence.