Smalt

General Information about Smalt

Smalt, represented by the hexadecimal color code #073294, is a deep, dark shade of blue reminiscent of the pigment derived from crushed potassium cobaltosilicate glass, which historically gave the color its name. This color evokes feelings of stability, depth, and intelligence, making it suitable for various applications where a sense of trustworthiness and sophistication is desired. In color psychology, dark blues like Smalt are often associated with authority, knowledge, and security, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and professional designs. The limited saturation and low brightness of this hue contribute to its calming effect, which also lends itself to contemplative and introspective environments. Its relative obscurity compared to more common blues adds a touch of uniqueness and understated elegance to any design palette.

The color #073294, also known as Smalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its dark hue results in very low contrast against light backgrounds, making text and interactive elements difficult to perceive. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast ratios are crucial for readability and usability. To enhance accessibility, it's recommended to pair this color with much lighter shades, such as white or very light yellows, to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Additionally, avoid using this color as the sole indicator for interactive elements; supplement it with clear labels and visual cues. Consider providing alternative color schemes to accommodate users with specific visual needs or preferences, ensuring a more inclusive and user-friendly experience. Testing with accessibility tools is essential to validate the effectiveness of color choices.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Website Headers and Footers

  Smalt (#073294) can be utilized in website headers and footers to create a sense of depth and professionalism. Its dark, muted tone works well as a background color for displaying key navigation links and contact information. To ensure readability, pair it with light-colored text and icons. Furthermore, consider using subtle hover effects to provide visual feedback to users interacting with the elements. The deep blue hue can also be effectively used to highlight calls to action, drawing user attention to important functionalities on the page. Be mindful of contrast ratios to ensure accessibility for all users.

• Fashion and Interior Design

  In fashion, Smalt can be used as a base color for elegant evening wear or professional business attire. Its sophisticated tone pairs well with metallic accents like silver or gold, creating a luxurious and refined look. The color can also be incorporated into accessories such as scarves or handbags, adding a touch of depth to neutral outfits. For interior design, Smalt can be used in accent walls or furniture pieces to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It complements natural materials like wood and stone, and can be paired with lighter blues or greys for a harmonious color palette. Consider using Smalt in bedding and pillows to create a relaxing bedroom environment.

• Data Visualization

  Smalt can be used to generate visually striking data visualizations, offering a professional and authoritative feel. It is particularly well-suited for representing important metrics and trends in business reports, presentations, and dashboards. By using this color for charts, graphs, and infographics, you can create a sense of stability and trustworthiness. When using this color, ensure that contrasting colors such as white, yellow, or light green are used for labels, axes, and data points to ensure clarity and readability. This will enhance the overall impact and ensure that the information is effectively communicated to the audience.

Complementary color

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