Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#043097)
The color #043097, also known as Smalt, is a deep, saturated blue hue that evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and intelligence. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its relatively low brightness and high chroma. In the RGB color model, #043097 is composed of 1.57% red, 18.82% green, and 59.22% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 97% cyan, 67% magenta, 0% yellow, and 41% black. Smalt is often associated with trust, authority, and professionalism, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and design. Its rich, dark shade also lends itself well to creating a sense of depth and sophistication in various applications. Its name originates from a blue pigment made by grinding cobalt glass.
The hex color #043097, also known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against a white background, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read text or distinguish elements. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. For optimal accessibility, it is recommended to pair Smalt with lighter colors such as white, light gray, or yellow to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using color contrast analyzers can help verify compliance with accessibility standards and improve the user experience for everyone, including those with disabilities. Additionally, avoid relying solely on color to convey information, as colorblind users may not be able to perceive the distinction.
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Digital Color Formats
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Applications
Website Design
Smalt (#043097) can be effectively utilized in creating a sophisticated and professional website design. Its deep blue hue evokes feelings of trust, stability, and intelligence, making it ideal for industries such as finance, technology, and education. Incorporating Smalt as a primary color in website headers, footers, and navigation menus can establish a strong brand identity. When used sparingly in conjunction with lighter accent colors, Smalt can provide visual interest without overwhelming the user. Furthermore, it can be applied to buttons, icons, and interactive elements to guide the user's attention and enhance the overall user experience. Combining it with a clean, minimalist layout can further amplify the sense of professionalism and modernity.
Interior Design
In the realm of interior design, Smalt (#043097) can be employed to create a calming and refined atmosphere in residential or commercial spaces. Its rich, dark blue shade adds depth and sophistication to walls, furniture, or accent pieces. When paired with neutral tones such as beige, gray, or white, Smalt can serve as a focal point in a room, drawing the eye and establishing a sense of elegance. Moreover, it can be combined with metallic accents like gold or silver to create a luxurious and opulent feel. The color also works well in bedrooms and studies, promoting relaxation and focus. Consider using it for upholstery, curtains, or decorative items to inject a touch of understated grandeur into any space.
Branding Materials
Smalt, with its deep and calming tones, is well-suited for creating professional and trustworthy branding materials. It works particularly well for companies in the tech, finance, and healthcare sectors. Use it in logos, letterheads, and marketing collateral to convey stability and expertise. Combine it with clean typography and minimalist design elements to enhance its sophistication.