Smalt
General Information about #083490 (Smalt)
The color #083490, also known as Smalt, is a dark shade of blue that falls within the broader indigo family. Smalt derives its name from a historical pigment made by grinding cobalt glass. This pigment was widely used in painting, ceramics, and dyeing, dating back to ancient Egypt and remaining popular through the Renaissance. Today, the color retains its connection to artistry and historical significance. It is often associated with depth, stability, and knowledge. In color psychology, dark blues are often seen as trustworthy, dependable, and calming, making them a popular choice for corporate branding and designs aiming to convey professionalism.
The hex color #083490, a deep shade of blue, presents certain accessibility challenges, particularly when used as a background or text color. Its low luminance value means it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial. For normal text (14 points or 18 pixels and above), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against its background is recommended, while large text requires a 3:1 ratio. When using #083490, lighter colors like whites, yellows, or very light grays should be used as text colors to meet these standards. Tools like contrast checkers can help assess the compliance. Also avoid using this color for interactive elements like links without additional visual cues, as color alone should not convey meaning.
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Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #083490 can be utilized to create a sense of trustworthiness and stability. It is often found in the headers or footers of corporate websites, educational platforms, or financial institutions. As a background color, it evokes a feeling of professionalism and reliability. When paired with lighter shades of gray or white, it can enhance the readability of content. However, care should be taken to ensure sufficient contrast ratios for accessibility. It is also often used to call to actions to give the user a feel of importance and trust.
Fashion
Within the realm of fashion, #083490 manifests as a classic and refined choice, often seen in formal wear, business attire, and sophisticated casual wear. This deep blue conveys a sense of authority and understated elegance. It is a versatile color that complements both warm and cool skin tones, making it a popular choice for suits, dresses, and outerwear. It also makes a very good option to use in patterns and accessoiries like shoes and bags to give the customer a feeling of luxury.
Interior Design
In interior design, smalt (#083490) can be employed to create a calming and sophisticated ambiance. It works well in bedrooms, studies, or living rooms where a sense of tranquility is desired. This deep blue can be used as an accent wall, upholstery for furniture, or even as the primary color for decorative elements such as rugs and curtains. When combined with natural wood tones or metallic accents, it adds depth and richness to the space, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere that promotes relaxation and focus.