Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#083390)
The hexadecimal color #083390, commonly referred to as Smalt, is a dark shade of blue, evoking a sense of depth, sophistication, and tranquility. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.14% red, 20% green, and 56.47% blue. Its specific hue makes it suitable for creating a calming and professional visual experience. Historically, Smalt refers to a deep blue pigment made by grinding cobalt glass. The color's low red and green values, combined with a high blue value, contribute to its distinctive, cool tone. Because of its dark nature, it is often used sparingly to create accents and highlights or combined with lighter hues to ensure visibility and readability. When used with neutral colors, it can add a touch of understated elegance to designs. Its application across multiple industries signifies its versatility and timeless appeal.
The color #083390, also known as Smalt, presents specific accessibility challenges, especially concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text colors to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This dark shade of blue can cause issues if paired with mid-tone grays or blues. Ensuring sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments. Using tools to check contrast ratios during design is highly recommended. Moreover, avoid using this color alone to convey critical information; supplement it with text or icons to accommodate users with color blindness. When using this color, the lightness of the text color has to be at least #D3D3D3 (LightGray) or lighter to meet the WCAG AAA guidelines.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Development
In web development, the color can be used as a background color for headers or footers to create a professional and sophisticated look. However, ensure that the text on top of it has adequate contrast for readability. It can also be used for decorative elements like borders or dividers, but sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user interface. When used in combination with lighter blues or whites, it can create a visually appealing contrast, drawing attention to specific sections of a webpage. Consider using it in data visualization to highlight key data points, but always ensure that it's accessible to all users, including those with visual impairments or color blindness.
Interior Design
In interior design, Smalt (#083390) can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, studies, or libraries. The color can be applied to walls, furniture, or accent pieces. When used on walls, it's best to balance it with lighter colors to prevent the room from feeling too dark or closed in. Complementary colors like gold or mustard yellow can be used to add warmth and contrast to the space. It is important to consider the amount of natural light in the room when incorporating such a dark color, and adjusting the intensity of other colors accordingly.
Beauty & Fashion
Smalt offers possibilities in the beauty and fashion industry. It is particularly suitable for products such as eyeliners or eyeshadows, as it creates a classic and elegant look. The color is also applicable in nail polish products, for example. When used in clothing, the color makes a subtle yet confident statement. Be aware of the combination of colors used in an outfit to create an aesthetic and stylish look. Furthermore, it is possible to use the color as a base for various accessories such as bags or scarves.