Ebony
General Information About Ebony
The hex color #0A0E1C, also known as Ebony, is a very dark shade of gray-black. It belongs to the family of near-black colors and is often associated with elegance, sophistication, and mystery. In the RGB color model, #0A0E1C is composed of 3.92% red, 5.49% green, and 11% blue. Its CMYK values are 0% cyan, 50% magenta, 64% yellow, and 89% black. This color is frequently used in design to evoke a sense of depth, seriousness, or exclusivity. Its muted nature makes it a versatile backdrop for brighter, more vibrant colors. The color is named after the ebony wood, which is very dark and heavy.
The hex color #0A0E1C, also known as Ebony, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Due to its very low luminance, using this color as text or as a primary background can create contrast issues for users, particularly those with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast between text and background is crucial for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Ebony, being a dark shade, often fails to meet these ratios when paired with many other colors. Therefore, web developers need to carefully choose foreground colors that offer substantial luminance differences. Alternatives include lighter shades of gray, cream, or even pastel colors. Tools for checking color contrast ratios are readily available and should be part of the design process when incorporating such dark colors to ensure inclusivity and optimal user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Ebony (#0A0E1C) can be utilized sparingly to create a sophisticated and modern feel. It's best suited for backgrounds in limited sections or as an accent color in UI elements, paired with lighter text for readability. For example, it could serve as the background for a website's header or footer, providing a strong visual anchor. It is also good to use as the main color on a one-page portfolio website to give a very modern and stylish look. However, it should never be used for large blocks of text or interactive elements where contrast is paramount. Careful attention to color contrast ratios is essential to ensure accessibility.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ebony can be applied to create a luxurious and intimate atmosphere. Think accent walls in a home theater or a study, where the darkness can enhance the feeling of enclosure and focus. It also works well in furniture, such as a sleek, modern coffee table or shelving unit. When using Ebony in interiors, balance it with lighter colors and textures to prevent the space from feeling too small or oppressive. Metallic accents, such as gold or copper, can add a touch of glamour and prevent the space from feeling drab. Lighting also plays a crucial role; strategic placement of lamps and overhead fixtures can help brighten the room and highlight key features.
Fashion Design
In the fashion sector, Ebony is used to create sleek, sophisticated, and mysterious clothing. Consider little black dresses, formal suits, or leather jackets. A black outfit can be very effective and modern. This color works best in high-quality materials like silk, leather, or cashmere, which highlight its depth and richness. Combining ebony with lighter or brighter colors creates a striking contrast, whereas pairing it with other dark hues creates a more subdued look. To give an outfit a luxurious look, add metallic accessories like silver or gold jewelry.