Smalt
General Information about #063992 (Smalt)
The hexadecimal color #063992, also known as Smalt, is a dark shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its deep, rich tone. In the RGB color model, #063992 is composed of 2.4% red, 22.4% green, and 57.3% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 96% cyan, 61% magenta, 0% yellow, and 43% black. This color is often associated with feelings of stability, trust, and intelligence. Smalt is historically significant as a pigment made from potassium glass colored with cobalt, used in ceramics, painting, and other decorative arts. Due to its dark nature, it's less commonly used as a primary color but is effective as an accent or background color, especially when paired with lighter, contrasting shades.
The hex color #063992, also known as Smalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially when used for text or interactive elements. Its very low luminance value (dark blue) means that it requires extremely light text (white or near-white) to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is needed for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using #063992 with darker text colors will likely fail these criteria, making content difficult or impossible for users with visual impairments to read. When using this color, it is crucial to perform thorough contrast checks with foreground elements. Additionally, consider providing alternative color schemes or user controls to adjust contrast, ensuring that all users can access the content effectively. Furthermore, interactive elements using this color should have clear visual cues beyond just color to aid users who are colorblind.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue, #4682B4 (Steel Blue), provides better contrast with dark text while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #0077cc
#0077cc (a slightly brighter blue) is commonly used in user interfaces and provides better readability against white backgrounds.
- #2962ff
For improved accessibility and a modern look, consider #2962ff (a vibrant blue) with appropriate text color choices.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #063992 can be used for header backgrounds or decorative elements where high contrast is not essential. It should be paired with very light text for readability. The color can add a sense of depth and sophistication to a website's overall aesthetic, but careful consideration should be given to its placement and usage to ensure accessibility for all users. Furthermore, you can use this color for buttons only if the text color meets the needed contrast ratio.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #063992 can serve as an accent wall color in a room with natural light or as a color for upholstered furniture. Its dark and cool tone can create a calming atmosphere. Combining it with lighter, warmer colors can balance the overall feel of the space. However, it's best to use this color sparingly in smaller spaces, as it can make them appear even smaller and darker. Instead, it can be combined with lighter colors to brighten the space.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, #063992 is suitable for evening wear or accessories like scarves or handbags. It conveys a sense of elegance and formality. The color can be paired with metallics or lighter shades to create a striking contrast. Using it as the primary color for an outfit creates a strong and confident statement, while using it as an accent color adds a touch of refinement.