Smalt
General Information about #052C96
The hexadecimal color code #052C96 represents a dark shade of blue, often referred to as Smalt. In the RGB color model, it consists of 2.0% red, 17.3% green, and 58.8% blue. Smalt derives its name from a historical pigment made by grinding blue glass containing cobalt. Historically, it was used in paintings and other artistic applications. Today, the color finds its applications in digital design, branding, and visual communication. Its deep, saturated hue conveys feelings of trust, authority, and stability. It is frequently employed by financial institutions and technology companies to evoke a sense of professionalism and reliability.
The color #052C96, also known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background or text color. Due to its low lightness value (a dark shade of blue), it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios. When used as a background color, it's crucial to pair it with a light text color to ensure readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards. For optimal accessibility and adherence to AAA standards, a contrast ratio of 7:1 is preferable. Using color contrast checkers is highly recommended to test the combination of #052C96 with other colors. Ensure your content is still accessible to users with visual impairments or color blindness. Providing alternative cues, such as underlines or bolding, for links and important elements can further improve accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white text, improving readability and accessibility.
- #f0f0f0
A neutral gray that can serve as a background color, offering a more subtle and accessible alternative to dark blue.
- #ffa500
A vibrant color that provides a good contrast with the original color, making the website visually appealing.
Applications
Web Design
Smalt (#052C96) can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look for websites, especially in sectors like finance or technology. As a background color for banners or headers, it gives a sense of seriousness and importance. To maintain readability, it is crucial to pair it with a light-colored font, such as white or a very pale yellow. This color can also be effective for highlighting important navigation items or call-to-action buttons, but in those cases, accessibility must be checked with sufficient contrast.
Interior Design
Smalt (#052C96) can be used as an accent color in interior design. It provides a touch of elegance and depth when used on walls, furniture, or decorative items. It pairs well with neutral colors such as gray, white, and beige, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. Use it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the space; a statement wall or a few carefully chosen accessories can make a big impact.
Nail Art
Smalt (#052C96) can be used to create striking and elegant nail art designs. It is an excellent choice for creating geometric patterns, accent nails, or even as a base color for more elaborate designs. Its rich hue adds a touch of sophistication to any look and complements a variety of skin tones. Combine it with silver or gold accents for a glamorous effect, or matte topcoat for a modern twist.