Smalt

General Information about Smalt (#043197)

The hex color #043197, also known as Smalt, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its richness and depth. In the RGB color model, #043197 is composed of 1.57% red, 19.22% green, and 59.22% blue. In the CMYK color model, which is often used in printing, it consists of 97% cyan, 67% magenta, 0% yellow, and 41% black. This color is frequently associated with qualities like stability, trust, and intelligence. Its deep tone can evoke feelings of serenity and sophistication, making it a popular choice in various design applications. The color is named after smalt, a blue pigment made by grinding cobalt glass.

The hex color #043197, also known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its dark hue means that careful consideration must be given to text and interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is essential for readability. When using #043197 as a background, ensure that any foreground text meets at least a 4.5:1 contrast ratio for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Lighter shades of yellows, greens, or whites usually work well. Avoid pairing this color with darker shades, as the lack of contrast can make content difficult to perceive, particularly for users with visual impairments. Also, using it for interactive elements means you need to test hover and focus states to ensure the contrast remains compliant and accessible. For graphical elements and user interface components, ensure that their contrast ratio with the adjacent background is 3:1 or greater.

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Alternative colors

Applications

• Website Headers and Navigation Bars

  Smalt (#043197) offers a refined, elegant choice for website headers and navigation bars. Its deep, sophisticated hue provides a professional look, particularly for sites in the finance or technology sectors. When paired with a clean, minimalist design, this color evokes trust and reliability. It can also be effectively used to highlight key calls to action, drawing the user's attention to important interactive elements. Make sure to use contrasting colors for text and buttons to ensure readability and accessibility.

• Interior Design Accent Color

  In interior design, Smalt can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It works well as an accent wall color, providing a focal point in the room without being too overwhelming. Pairing it with lighter neutrals like gray or beige can balance the deep blue and create a harmonious space. For furniture, consider using this color for upholstery on sofas or armchairs to add a touch of luxury.

• Cosmetic Packaging and Makeup

  Smalt provides a rich, dark base for creating eye-catching and luxurious cosmetic packaging. This color can evoke a sense of sophistication and quality, enhancing the perceived value of the product. When used in makeup palettes, it works well for creating smokey eye looks or adding depth to evening makeup styles. Consider this color for eyeliner, mascara, or even dark eyeshadows, offering a classic alternative to black.

Complementary color

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