Cobalt
General Information about Cobalt (#084CA4)
The hexadecimal color #084CA4, also known as Cobalt, is a dark shade of blue. It is composed of 0.3% red, 28.2% green, and 64.3% blue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 8 red, 76 green, and 164 blue. In the CMYK color model, if offers 95% cyan, 54% magenta, 0% yellow, and 36% black. Cobalt blue is often associated with qualities such as depth, stability, and expertise, and it is commonly used to represent knowledge, power, integrity, and seriousness. It is frequently used in corporate branding to convey trust and reliability. The color’s cool tone can also evoke a sense of calmness and composure.
The color #084CA4, also known as Cobalt, presents some accessibility challenges due to its dark hue. When used as a background color, it requires light-colored text (white or very light shades of yellow or gray) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Using a color contrast checker is essential to verify compliance. This dark blue can be problematic for users with low vision or color blindness if not paired with appropriate contrasting colors. Therefore, careful consideration should be given to text color and size to ensure optimal accessibility and a positive user experience. Avoid using it for crucial interactive elements if the contrast is not sufficient.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast when used as a background color with dark text.
- #1e90ff
A more saturated blue that can provide better visual impact while still being relatively accessible with appropriate text colors.
- #333333
A neutral dark grey that offers high contrast with light color fonts for optimal readability.
Applications
Web Design
Cobalt (#084CA4) is often employed in website headers and footers to create a sense of professionalism and trust. Its deep tone can provide a strong visual anchor for the top or bottom of a webpage, effectively framing the content. In UI design, it may be utilized for primary buttons or interactive elements to draw user attention, especially when paired with contrasting text. When used sparingly, it can also serve as an accent color to highlight specific sections or information on a website or application.
Interior Design
In the realm of interior design, Cobalt can be applied as an accent wall color to bring depth and sophistication to a room. It pairs well with neutral tones like beige, gray, and white. It is also suitable for furniture upholstery, such as sofas or chairs, to add a pop of color to a living space. Furthermore, cobalt blue accessories like vases, cushions, or artwork can serve as elegant finishing touches that complement various interior design styles, from modern to traditional.
Branding
Cobalt (#084CA4) is a popular choice in branding for companies seeking to convey trust, reliability, and intelligence. It's frequently used in logos, marketing materials, and website designs for financial institutions, tech companies, and educational organizations. The color evokes a sense of stability and professionalism, making it ideal for industries where these qualities are paramount. Cobalt can be combined with lighter blues or neutral colors to create a balanced and visually appealing brand identity.