Smalt
General Information about Smalt
The hex color code #07349D, also known as Smalt, represents a deep, saturated shade of blue in the RGB color space. It is composed of 2.75% red, 20.39% green, and 61.57% blue. Smalt derives its name from a historical pigment made by grinding cobalt glass, which was widely used in paintings, ceramics, and textiles. As a color, Smalt evokes feelings of depth, stability, and calmness. It's often associated with royalty, intelligence, and trust. In color psychology, dark blues like Smalt are believed to promote relaxation and encourage introspection. In modern applications, this color can be found in various design contexts, ranging from web interfaces to branding materials, where its unique hue adds a touch of sophistication and elegance. However, due to its darkness, careful consideration should be given to its use in terms of accessibility and contrast.
The hex color #07349D, also known as Smalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for text-based content. Its very dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against standard light backgrounds (like white). This can make text difficult to read for individuals with visual impairments, including those with low vision, color blindness, or general readability issues. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to use #07349D sparingly and always pair it with a very light foreground color, such as white or a pale yellow (#FFFFE0), to achieve a contrast ratio that meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Avoid using this color for crucial information or interactive elements without careful contrast consideration. Furthermore, it's recommended to provide alternative styling options or high-contrast themes to cater to diverse user needs. For non-text elements, ensure sufficient contrast against adjacent colors to maintain discernibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #07349D can be used as an accent color for headers or decorative elements, provided it's paired with appropriate contrasting colors for readability. It could also be suitable for website navigation bars or footers, where the contrast with text and other elements is carefully managed. Consider using it for backgrounds of non-essential content to create a sense of depth. However, always prioritize accessibility by ensuring sufficient contrast ratios and providing alternative styling options when necessary.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #07349D could be used as a wall color in a study or home office to create a calming and focused atmosphere. Pair it with lighter neutral tones for furniture and accessories to balance the darkness and prevent the room from feeling too overwhelming. Alternatively, it can be incorporated as an accent color through upholstery, cushions, or artwork to add a touch of sophistication and depth to a space.
Fashion Industry
In the fashion industry, Smalt can be incorporated into a sophisticated and elegant wardrobe through dresses, jackets, or evening gowns. It can be paired with neutral colors like beige, cream, or gray, or with metallics like silver or gold for a more luxurious look. For accessories, consider using this color in handbags, belts, or shoes to add a touch of color and style to an outfit.