Ebony Clay
General Information about Ebony Clay
The hexadecimal color code #1F293B, commonly referred to as Ebony Clay, is a dark, desaturated shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 12.16% red, 16.08% green, and 23.14% blue. Its representation in the HSL (Hue, Saturation, Lightness) model is a hue of 221.1 degrees, a saturation of 30.7%, and a lightness of 17.6%. The color is often associated with feelings of calmness, sophistication, and stability. It is commonly used in designs aiming for a professional or understated aesthetic. Its versatility allows it to be paired with a range of colors, including both vibrant and muted tones, to create various moods and effects. The color is part of the cool color palette.
The hex color #1F293B, also known as Ebony Clay, presents specific accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its low luminance value (relatively dark) requires careful consideration of color contrast ratios to ensure readability for users, especially those with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast between text and background is crucial. For normal text (size 12-14), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended, while larger text requires a ratio of 3:1. When using #1F293B as a background, designers must choose foreground text colors that meet these standards. Light shades of yellow, orange, or cyan can be good options. It is highly advised to use color contrast checkers during the design process to validate accessibility and adjust color schemes if necessary. Ignoring these principles leads to exclusion and a poor user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #333333
A slightly lighter shade of gray that provides better contrast with white text.
- #000000
A darker shade for backgrounds where you need to have the darkest color possible, for example, for accessibility reasons if you have bright text.
- #2c3e50
A desaturated blue provides a similar aesthetic but may offer better contrast in some contexts.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Ebony Clay is a sophisticated and understated color choice for website backgrounds, particularly in the tech and finance industries. Its dark, muted tone provides a professional feel and helps content stand out. When used for website headers or footers, it creates a strong visual anchor. It pairs well with brighter accent colors like teal or gold for a touch of elegance. In data visualizations, Ebony Clay can serve as a neutral backdrop to highlight key data points, ensuring clarity and impact. Careful attention to contrast ratios is essential to maintain readability.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ebony Clay creates a sense of calmness and sophistication. It works well in bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices, providing a neutral backdrop for artwork and furniture. This color is frequently used for accent walls or statement pieces, and when combined with natural materials like wood and stone, it creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Lighter colors like cream or beige can be incorporated to balance the darkness. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can add a touch of luxury.
Fashion Design
Ebony Clay is a very popular color for modern fashion. It is a grounding neutral that can be paired with nearly any other color. It works particularly well with bright saturated colors that pop. It can also work well within a monochromatic color palette. Given its darker nature, it is typically used for cooler weather clothing, though it also makes a sophisticated choice for evening wear during the warmer months.