Prussian Blue
About Prussian Blue (#03315A)
Prussian Blue, chemically known as ferric ferrocyanide, is a dark blue pigment with the hex code #03315A. It's renowned for its rich, deep hue and has been used extensively in various applications since its accidental discovery in the early 18th century. Originally used in paints and dyes, Prussian Blue has found its way into diverse fields, including medicine (as an antidote for certain types of heavy metal poisoning) and even in the production of blueprints. Its unique chemical structure gives it its distinctive color, and it remains a popular choice for artists and designers seeking a sophisticated and classic shade of blue. The color is often associated with elegance and depth.
The color #03315A, a deep shade of Prussian Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its low luminance value of approximately 3% means it offers very little contrast against commonly used background colors like white. As a result, text or interactive elements using this color may be difficult or impossible for users with visual impairments to perceive. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to pair this color with significantly lighter hues, aiming for a contrast ratio that meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, ideally 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Designers should also consider providing alternative color schemes to accommodate users with different visual preferences or requirements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2c698d
A slightly lighter blue that provides better contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #5f9ea0
A desaturated gray-blue that offers a more subtle and accessible alternative.
- #002244
This deeper shade of blue offers a stronger contrast when paired with lighter background colors, improving readability and overall accessibility.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
Prussian Blue, with its depth and sophistication, lends itself well to creating a sense of trust and stability. In web design, it can be effectively used in the headers and footers of corporate websites, or within data visualizations to represent important metrics. The color exudes a professional and serious feel, making it ideal for websites aiming to project authority and expertise. However, due to its darkness, the applications are limited without proper use of constrast to avoid accessibility issues.
Interior Design (Accent Color)
This color provides a sense of calm and tranquility. When designing interiors, consider using Prussian Blue as an accent wall color in bedrooms or studies to evoke a relaxing atmosphere. Complement it with lighter, warmer neutrals to balance the coolness of the blue and create a cozy, inviting space. It can also be used in upholstery or decorative items to add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Fashion (Evening Wear)
In fashion, Prussian Blue is a timeless and versatile color. It can be used in evening wear to create a sophisticated and elegant look. Pairing it with metallic accessories like silver or gold can enhance its richness and depth. It is a perfect fit for a dark, wintery theme but might feel off in a vibrant, summer setting. Its important to think about the season, when applying this color.