Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#0B409C)
Smalt, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0B409C, is a deep shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and intelligence. It is often associated with trust, authority, and professionalism. In terms of color theory, Smalt belongs to the blue color family and is relatively low in saturation, giving it a more muted and sophisticated appearance. The name 'Smalt' originates from a historical pigment made by grinding cobalt glass, which was used in paints and other colorants. Today, it is commonly used in digital design and art, offering a visually appealing alternative to brighter blues. Its hex code, #0B409C, indicates the specific combination of red, green, and blue light intensities that create this particular shade.
The color #0B409C, also known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it's crucial to pair it with text that offers sufficient contrast to ensure readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Given its dark hue, #0B409C requires very light text (ideally white or a very pale shade) to meet these standards. Using darker text colors can result in poor readability, especially for users with visual impairments. When incorporating this color in user interface elements, such as buttons or links, consider providing alternative visual cues, like borders or icons, to further enhance accessibility. Furthermore, ensure that interactive elements have a clear focus state to assist keyboard navigation.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2c64b3
A slightly lighter blue that maintains a similar feel but offers better contrast with darker text.
- #343a40
A more neutral dark gray-blue that works well as a background color with a wider range of text colors.
- #000080
A classic navy blue providing a more traditional and easily readable alternative in similar contexts.
Applications
Professional Website Design
In web design, Smalt (#0B409C) can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look for websites or applications, for example, in the header or navigation bars. It's especially effective for sites related to finance, technology, or education where a sense of trust and authority is needed. However, designers should be cautious about using it extensively as a background color due to its darkness. Instead, use it sparingly as an accent color to highlight important elements. This color provides a very nice professional look. Always balance it with lighter shades to prevent eye strain.
Elegant Interior Accents
In interior design, Smalt can be incorporated into spaces to create a calming and elegant atmosphere. Use it as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, or incorporate it into furniture and accessories. When using Smalt in interiors, complement it with lighter colors, such as creams, whites, or light grays, to brighten the space and create balance. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can further enhance the luxurious feel of Smalt. It can also be used in textiles and rugs.
Branding for Trust and Competence
Smalt can be used as a base color for branding that wants to convey trustworthiness and competence. Combining it with a bright accent color can make the branding more modern and approachable. Its deep hue makes it a great color for logos in tech companies or universities. Complementary colors can be used to highlight important sections or call to actions. The use of the color in branding can be complemented with matching colors on the company website.