Ebony
General Information about Ebony (#100A1B)
The hexadecimal color code #100A1B represents a very dark shade of blue-purple, often referred to as Ebony. It's composed of 6.27% red, 3.92% green, and 10.59% blue. In the RGB color space, it's characterized by low values, indicating its darkness. This color resides in the cool spectrum and evokes feelings of sophistication, mystery, and elegance. It's often associated with high-end products and can be used to convey a sense of luxury or exclusivity. Due to its darkness, it is not a commonly used color, but instead, it can be effective as an accent color when paired with brighter, contrasting hues. The color is from the X11 color set, originally developed at MIT in 1987 for the X Window System.
The hex color #100A1B, also known as Ebony, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its extremely low lightness value (very dark) results in poor contrast when paired with similarly dark colors. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast between foreground and background elements is crucial for users with visual impairments. Using #100A1B as a background color requires very light text (ideally white or near-white) to meet minimum contrast ratios. Even then, careful evaluation with accessibility tools is necessary to ensure readability. It is advisable to avoid using this color for essential information or interactive elements unless contrast is meticulously addressed. The lack of contrast can also pose problems for users viewing the content on devices with poor screen calibration or in environments with high ambient lighting.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
Ebony (#100A1B) can be effectively used in website footers or headers to create a sophisticated and grounding effect. Paired with lighter text and subtle design elements, it can establish a sense of understated elegance and professionalism. However, care must be taken to ensure sufficient contrast with text and interactive elements for accessibility. The color's darkness lends itself well to minimalist designs where it can act as a strong visual anchor. In addition, it can be used sparingly in backgrounds to highlight sections of a website and draw user attention.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ebony (#100A1B) can serve as a dramatic accent color. It can be used for furniture, wall art, or even a feature wall to add depth and sophistication to a room. When used in larger spaces, it's essential to balance it with lighter colors to prevent the room from feeling too dark or oppressive. The color works particularly well in modern or minimalist interiors, where its understated nature can complement clean lines and simple forms. It can also be used to highlight architectural features or create a sense of contrast against lighter backgrounds.
Makeup Design
Ebony (#100A1B) can be incorporated as a deep, mysterious eyeshadow or eyeliner to add depth and definition to the eyes. It's particularly flattering on individuals with cool undertones. This color can also be used for nail polish, creating a chic and edgy look. When used in makeup, it's important to balance it with lighter shades to prevent the overall look from appearing too harsh. Consider pairing it with shimmering highlights or softer blush tones to create a harmonious and balanced makeup look. This color is suitable for creating gothic or alternative looks.