Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt
Cobalt, represented by the hexadecimal color code #084CA1, is a deep shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, authority, and sophistication. It is a color often associated with royalty, wisdom, and stability. In color psychology, blue is known to promote a sense of trust and security, making Cobalt a popular choice for corporate branding and professional environments. This particular shade of blue is relatively dark, and its intensity can vary depending on the lighting conditions. Cobalt is derived from the German word 'kobalt,' referring to subterranean spirits or goblins, due to the difficulty miners had in extracting useful metals from cobalt-containing ores. In the RGB color model, #084CA1 is composed of 3.14% red, 30.2% green, and 63.14% blue. Its use in design can create a strong visual impact, particularly when contrasted with complementary colors like yellow or orange.
The color #084CA1, also known as Cobalt, presents certain accessibility challenges. With a low luminance value, it may not provide sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds, potentially causing readability issues for users with visual impairments. When using this color for text, it's crucial to ensure a high contrast ratio with the background, ideally meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Consider using a color contrast checker to verify compliance. Pairing #084CA1 with very light shades like white or pale yellow can improve accessibility. Furthermore, avoid relying solely on color to convey important information; use alternative cues like text labels or icons to ensure inclusivity for all users, including those with color vision deficiencies. It's generally recommended to use this color sparingly as a background color, and never without considering its foreground counterpart. Larger fonts and thoughtful spacing can also make a difference in readability when using this strong color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Interactive Elements
Cobalt, #084CA1, can be effectively used to highlight key interactive elements such as buttons and links. Its vibrant hue draws the user's attention, indicating clickable or tappable areas. When designing user interfaces, utilizing this color for primary calls to action can improve the user experience by providing a clear visual cue. To enhance accessibility, ensure adequate contrast between the text and the background color when used for text or icons. It's suitable for modern and professional website design. For example, use it on a company website for their service buttons, drawing user attention to the key part of the page.
Interior Accent
In interior design, Cobalt, #084CA1, can add a touch of sophistication and depth to a space. Use it as an accent color in rooms with neutral color schemes. For example, you can paint a single wall in cobalt to create a focal point or use cobalt-colored accessories like cushions, throws, or artwork to introduce the color in a subtle manner. Combine it with lighter shades like white, gray, or beige to create a balanced and visually appealing room. This color is especially effective in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices where a calming yet stimulating atmosphere is desired. Its association with royalty and wisdom lends a touch of elegance to the design.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, this deep blue color can be employed to create striking and elegant looks. A cobalt blue dress can be a showstopper, making a statement at formal events or parties. Accessorizing with #084CA1 colored jewelry, such as earrings or necklaces, or using it in scarves or handbags, provides a vibrant pop of color against neutral outfits. Men can incorporate this shade with ties, pocket squares, or dress shirts to add a touch of sophistication to their attire. When using this color, complement it with neutral colors like black, white, or gray, or bolder complementary shades like orange or yellow, for a visually appealing ensemble.