Ebony
General Information about Ebony
The hex color #120A1C, also known as Ebony, is a very dark, muted shade that resides in the realm of near-black colors. It is composed of 7.1% red, 3.92% green, and 11% blue. In the RGB color space, its values are R:18, G:10, and B:28. The color is often associated with elegance, sophistication, and mystery. It is frequently used to convey a sense of luxury and exclusivity. In design applications, it is typically employed as a background color or as an accent to create contrast and depth. Due to its darkness, it is essential to pair it with lighter colors to ensure readability and visual balance. The color is often mistaken with black due to its closeness to the color.
The hex color #120A1C, also known as Ebony, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low luminance value. When used as a foreground color, it requires a very light background to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. 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. #120A1C often fails to meet these criteria with many common background colors. Designers must carefully select a contrasting color palette, use larger font sizes, or add visual cues to improve usability. It is also important to test the color combination with accessibility evaluation tools to ensure compliance with accessibility standards. Moreover, consider providing alternative color schemes to accommodate users with different visual needs. Avoid using this color for critical interactive elements or essential information without proper contrast adjustments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #221a2c
A slightly lighter shade that offers improved contrast while maintaining a similar dark, sophisticated feel.
- #333333
A dark gray that provides better readability against light backgrounds compared to the deeper ebony.
- #24163a
A dark purple color with a blue undertone which may give a modern feel to the user.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Ebony can be used sparingly as a background for specific sections or as an accent color to evoke a sense of luxury and sophistication. Due to its darkness, it should primarily be paired with very light text and UI elements to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it for headers, footers, or sidebars, and complement it with brighter accent colors to create visual interest. Avoid using it for large blocks of text or critical interactive components unless appropriate contrast ratios are met. Test the color scheme on various devices and screen sizes to ensure consistent visibility and usability. The color can be part of a dark theme.
Fashion Base Color
In fashion, Ebony can serve as a base color for creating elegant and minimalist outfits. It works well with both neutral and bold accent colors, allowing for versatile styling options. Consider using it for outerwear, trousers, or accessories, and combine it with lighter shades or contrasting textures to add depth and visual interest. It can also be incorporated into formal wear for a sophisticated and timeless look. When using Ebony in fashion, pay attention to the fabric and fit to ensure a flattering and comfortable silhouette. The color is mostly used in elegant garments.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ebony can be used to create a dramatic and luxurious atmosphere. It can be applied to walls, furniture, or decor elements to add depth and sophistication to a space. When using Ebony in interior design, it's important to balance it with lighter colors and ample lighting to prevent the room from feeling too dark or oppressive. Consider using it in accent walls, cabinetry, or flooring, and complement it with brighter shades in upholstery, artwork, and accessories. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can also enhance the sense of luxury and add visual interest. The color is used in modern designs.