Smalt

General Information About Smalt (#043494)

The hexadecimal color #043494, also known as Smalt, is a dark shade of blue, characterized by its depth and richness. In the RGB (red, green, blue) color model, it consists of 0 red, 52 green, and 148 blue. Converting it to the CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, key/black) model yields approximately 100% cyan, 65% magenta, 0% yellow, and 42% black. This composition indicates that Smalt is a cool-toned color with a strong emphasis on blue and a notable presence of green. Historically, smalt refers to a pigment made by grinding blue glass containing cobalt, often used in paints, ceramics, and other artistic applications. The digital representation, #043494, preserves the essence of this historical pigment, offering designers and artists a deep and intriguing blue option.

The color #043494, a deep smalt blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web design. Its low lightness value means it requires careful pairing with contrasting colors to ensure readability, especially for text. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast ratios are essential for users with visual impairments. For normal text (14 points), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against the background is needed. For large text (18 points), a ratio of 3:1 is sufficient. When using #043494 for backgrounds, ensure that text is white or a very light shade to meet these standards. Furthermore, avoid using this color as the sole indicator for interactive elements, such as links or buttons. Supplement the color with clear text labels or icons to accommodate users with color blindness or those using assistive technologies.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Development

  In web development, #043494 can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or call-to-action sections. Its depth evokes trust and professionalism, making it suitable for finance or technology websites. However, due to its darkness, pair it with light, high-contrast text to maintain readability and accessibility. It can also be used for subtle accents, such as borders or icons, especially when aiming for a consistent and branded color palette. Consider using it in conjunction with lighter blues or complementary colors like yellows and oranges to create visual interest and a balanced user interface.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Smalt (#043494) brings a sense of calm and sophistication to a space. It works well in bedrooms or studies, creating a relaxing and focused atmosphere. This deep blue can be used as an accent wall color, complemented by lighter neutrals like beige or gray to prevent the room from feeling too dark. Alternatively, it can be incorporated through furniture pieces, such as a velvet sofa or upholstered chairs. When using Smalt in a room, ensure there is ample lighting, either natural or artificial, to enhance the color's richness and avoid a gloomy ambiance. Metallic accents like gold or brass can add a touch of luxury and warmth.

• Fashion

  In fashion, Smalt (#043494) presents a versatile and elegant choice. It can be used as a base color for formal wear, such as suits or dresses, projecting confidence and poise. The color also works well in accessories, like scarves or handbags, adding a pop of color to an outfit without being too overpowering. When incorporating Smalt into your wardrobe, consider pairing it with complementary colors such as mustard yellow or burnt orange to create a striking contrast. Neutral tones like gray, cream, or white also work well with Smalt, providing a balanced and refined look. The depth of the color makes it suitable for both warm and cool seasons, adapting well to different fabrics and textures.

Complementary color

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