Smalt
General Information about Smalt
The hexadecimal color code #043394 represents a dark shade of blue, often referred to as Smalt. It is composed of 1.57% red, 20% green, and 58.04% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to 4 red, 51 green, and 148 blue. Smalt falls within the blue color family and evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and trust. Historically, smalt was a pigment made by grinding cobalt glass and was used in paintings and ceramics. Today, the term is used to describe a similar deep blue hue. The color is often associated with corporate branding, technology, and professional services due to its association with reliability and competence. Its darkness suggests authority and elegance.
The color #043394, also known as Smalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low lightness value creates insufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text or interactive elements difficult to discern. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Smalt often fails to meet these ratios when paired with common background colors like white or light gray. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter shades of yellow, orange or green for text or interactive elements on a Smalt background. Alternatively, avoid using Smalt for critical information or interactive elements altogether and opt for more accessible color choices with higher contrast ratios. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate color combinations and ensure compliance with accessibility standards, fostering a more inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, Smalt can be used sparingly for accent elements such as borders, dividers, or non-essential icons. Due to its dark nature, it is not recommended for large blocks of text or as a primary background color. When used, ensure sufficient contrast with foreground elements to maintain readability and accessibility. Consider using it in combination with lighter, complementary colors to create a visually appealing and balanced design. Smalt can also be effective in creating a sense of depth or sophistication in website layouts.
Interior Design
In interior design, Smalt can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, studies, or living rooms. Pair it with lighter neutrals, such as creams or grays, to prevent the space from feeling too dark. Use it for accent walls, upholstery, or decorative accessories. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can also complement Smalt beautifully, adding a touch of luxury and elegance to the overall design scheme. The color also blends very well with wooden furniture.
Logo Design
When designing a logo, you have to make sure, that the color is not too dominant, to not distract the user. A dark blue like Smalt (#043394) can cause a lot of contrast to lighter colors. Therefore it is important to think about the surrounding. In general, the color is useable, but keep in mind, that you should use another color with it, that has a light tone.