Prussian Blue
General Information about Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #042E5A, is a dark shade of blue known for its rich, deep tone. Historically, Prussian Blue was one of the first synthetically produced pigments, discovered in the early 18th century. It's a color often associated with sophistication, intelligence, and authority. In color psychology, dark blues like Prussian Blue are known to evoke feelings of trust, security, and stability. This makes it a popular choice for corporate branding and professional settings. The color is composed of 1.6% red, 18% green and 35.3% blue. In the RGB system, #042E5A has a hue of 207 degrees, a saturation of 95.5% and a lightness of 18.4%.
The color #042E5A, also known as Prussian Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as text on a white background or vice versa. Its low lightness value results in a low contrast ratio, potentially failing WCAG AA standards. For text, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. #042E5A falls short here, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. To improve accessibility, consider using it with lighter shades of yellow, orange or green to meet minimum contrast ratios, ensuring readability for a wider audience. Tools like contrast checkers can help to determine the right color pairings to ensure accessibility is met. Using this color as background with white text is not advised.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
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Applications
Corporate Branding
Prussian Blue, with its depth and sophistication, can serve as a primary brand color for businesses seeking to convey trust, stability, and professionalism. Its association with the ocean and vastness of space makes it suitable for companies in the technology, finance, or consulting industries. A dark blue color conveys seriousness and depth.
Web Design
In web design, Prussian Blue can be used for headers, navigation bars, or as a background color for sections needing emphasis. Its dark hue provides a strong visual anchor, guiding users through the website's content. It pairs well with light grays and whites to create a clean, professional interface.
Interior Design
In interior design, Prussian Blue can be applied as an accent wall color or incorporated through furniture and décor to add a touch of elegance and depth to a room. Its calming effect makes it ideal for bedrooms and living rooms, creating a serene atmosphere. Pair with white, beige or neutral colors to balance its darkness. Combine with wood furniture to get a warmer apperance.