Smalt
General Information about Smalt
The hex color #043A97, also known as Smalt, is a deep and rich shade of blue that belongs to the blue color family. It is often associated with qualities such as calmness, stability, and trust. Smalt derives its name from a historical pigment made by grinding blue glass containing cobalt. In the RGB color model, #043A97 is composed of 0.78% red, 22.75% green, and 59.22% blue. In the CMYK color model, which is used for printing, it is composed of 99% cyan, 61% magenta, 0% yellow, and 41% black. This combination of color properties gives Smalt its distinctive and intense blue appearance, making it suitable for various applications where a sense of depth and reliability is desired.
The hex color #043A97, a deep shade of blue known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when it comes to text and interactive elements. Due to its low lightness value, it requires careful consideration of color contrast to ensure readability and usability. When using this color as a background, it is imperative to pair it with a light color for text or foreground elements. White (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of yellow or green would provide adequate contrast, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for level AA and ideally level AAA compliance. Avoid using darker colors or shades of gray, as they will likely result in insufficient contrast, making content difficult or impossible to read for users with visual impairments. Also, consider providing alternative visual cues, such as underlines or icons, alongside color to convey meaning, especially for links or interactive controls.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design for Tech/Finance
Smalt, with its sophisticated and calming presence, lends itself beautifully to website designs within the tech and finance sectors. Its depth evokes feelings of trust and security, crucial for industries dealing with sensitive information and financial transactions. Employed strategically as a background for headings or call-to-action buttons, it draws the user's eye and encourages engagement. When combined with a clean, minimalist layout and ample white space, Smalt contributes to a professional and authoritative online experience, reinforcing brand credibility and instilling confidence in visitors.
Fashion and Apparel
In the realm of fashion, Smalt offers a versatile and elegant option, particularly for evening wear and formal attire. Its rich hue adds a touch of understated luxury and sophistication. Consider using Smalt in silk or velvet fabrics for dresses or suits. It can also be incorporated as an accent color in accessories like scarves, ties, or handbags. When paired with metallic accents like gold or silver, Smalt creates a visually stunning and memorable look, perfect for special occasions and red-carpet events.
Interior Design
Smalt serves as an excellent choice for creating a serene and inviting atmosphere in interior design, especially within bedrooms or living spaces. Its calming influence promotes relaxation and tranquility, making it ideal for areas dedicated to rest and rejuvenation. Employ Smalt as a wall color to establish a focal point, or utilize it in furniture upholstery, curtains, or decorative pillows to add depth and character to the room. Complement it with warm neutral tones like beige or cream to create a balanced and harmonious living environment.