Black Pearl
General Information about Black Pearl
The hexadecimal color code #04121E represents a very dark shade of blue-black, often referred to as 'Black Pearl'. In the RGB color model, it consists of 4 red, 18 green, and 30 blue components. This translates to a color that is predominantly blue with very low intensity. The Black Pearl color is frequently associated with feelings of sophistication, mystery, and elegance. It can be used in various design contexts to convey a sense of luxury and understated style. Because of its darkness, it is generally used for backgrounds, or sparingly as an accent color. The color is not very vibrant and appears muted, so it needs to be considered carefully when pairing with other colors.
The hex color #04121E, also known as Black Pearl, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in text-based applications. Its extremely low luminance value results in very poor contrast against standard light backgrounds, making it difficult for users, particularly those with visual impairments, to read text or distinguish elements. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet WCAG AA standards. Black Pearl falls far short of these recommendations when paired with typical white or light-colored backgrounds. Therefore, when using this color, it's essential to use it sparingly and pair it with very light colors such as whites or light yellows to ensure readability. For users with color blindness, the lack of color contrast may further exacerbate readability issues. Using tools to simulate color blindness can help designers assess potential issues. In general, it is advisable to consider alternative, more accessible colors in situations where readability is important.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #142232
A slightly lighter shade of grey, which maintains a dark aesthetic but offers improved contrast against light backgrounds.
- #0a1a2a
A dark blue with a hint of grey, providing a similar deep color while potentially enhancing perceived contrast.
- #222222
A dark grey that provides higher contrast and better readability on light backgrounds.
Applications
Website Background
Black Pearl (#04121E) can be used as a sophisticated background color for websites or applications aiming for a dark and modern aesthetic. It evokes a sense of luxury and exclusivity, especially suitable for brands in the technology, fashion, or automotive industries. Use this color sparingly for text to ensure readability. Designers should incorporate ample whitespace and utilize contrasting light-colored elements to enhance the overall visual hierarchy and user experience. Combining with lighter accent colors or metallic tones can elevate the design and create visual interest. The color is very subtle and should be used for backgrounds instead of elements like buttons.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Black Pearl can be used to create a dramatic and elegant atmosphere in living rooms or bedrooms. It is well-suited for accent walls or furniture upholstery. Pair it with lighter colors like ivory or beige to balance the darkness and prevent the space from feeling too enclosed. Consider using textures and metallic accents to add depth and visual interest. For example, black pearl velvet cushions could add a layer of luxury to a bedroom, while a black pearl wall provides a subtle backdrop to other vibrant design elements.
Fashion Design Base
Black Pearl can be used as a base color in fashion design to create elegant and sophisticated looks. It works particularly well for evening wear or formal attire. Designers can pair this color with metallic accessories or bright accents to create visual interest and highlight the garment's design. Fabrics like silk or velvet in Black Pearl can add a luxurious and glamorous touch. Use it as a backdrop to allow other features to pop out, or as an elegant understated base.