Smalt

General Information about Smalt (#033093)

The color #033093, also known as Smalt, is a deep, dark shade of blue within the blue color family. Smalt gets its name from the finely ground potassium glass containing cobalt, historically used as a pigment for paintings, ceramics, and dyeing fabrics. This hex code represents a color with very low red and green values, while the blue component is considerably higher, giving it a distinctive dark blue hue. In RGB color space, it is composed of 1.2% red, 18.8% green, and 57.6% blue. The color is often associated with qualities such as trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. It's a color that can evoke a sense of calm and order and is often used to convey stability and professionalism. However, its darkness requires careful consideration when used in design, particularly concerning accessibility.

The hex color #033093, also known as Smalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of approximately 3% means that it offers very little contrast against common background colors like white. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), sufficient contrast is essential for readability and usability. To ensure accessibility, text or interactive elements using #033093 should be paired with very light colors, aiming for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. When this level of contrast cannot be achieved, it's crucial to select alternative, more accessible colors to accommodate all users effectively. This consideration extends beyond text to icons, buttons, and other UI components where visibility is critical.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• UI Design Accent

  In user interface (UI) design, #033093 can be utilized sparingly as an accent color to highlight primary actions or navigation elements. Its dark hue evokes feelings of trust and authority, which can be beneficial in financial or governmental applications. However, due to accessibility concerns, it should not be used for body text or elements requiring prolonged readability. Ensure sufficient contrast with background and foreground elements to meet accessibility standards and provide an inclusive user experience. Consider pairing it with lighter shades of complementary colors to balance visual appeal and usability.

• Fashion and Apparel

  In the realm of fashion, #033093 can be incorporated into formal wear or elegant evening attire to convey sophistication and depth. It pairs well with silver or gold accessories, creating a luxurious appearance. When designing patterns, using it as a base color alongside lighter or brighter shades can create visually striking designs. For makeup, #033093 can be used as a deep eyeshadow or eyeliner for a dramatic effect, especially suitable for evening looks. Remember to balance the overall appearance and ensure the color complements the wearer's skin tone.

• Interior Design Accent

  In interior design, #033093 can create a sense of depth and tranquility when used in moderation. It is well-suited for accent walls in bedrooms or studies, providing a calming atmosphere. Pair it with lighter, neutral colors like beige or gray to prevent the room from feeling too dark. Consider using it for upholstery on furniture to add a touch of elegance and sophistication. The color can also be incorporated through decorative elements such as cushions, curtains, or artwork to introduce depth and richness to the space.

Complementary color

Buttons