Sapphire
General Information about Sapphire Blue
The hexadecimal color #214693, commonly known as Sapphire, is a dark and saturated shade of blue. It is composed of 12.9% red, 27.5% green, and 57.6% blue. In the RGB color space, it represents a relatively low red and green value compared to a significantly higher blue value, resulting in its characteristic deep blue hue. Sapphire blue is often associated with qualities such as loyalty, trust, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. In color psychology, it is considered a calming and soothing color, often used to promote relaxation and mental clarity. It is frequently employed in branding and design contexts where these attributes are desired. The color is also widely used in creative fields to represent a sense of elegance and depth.
The color #214693, a deep sapphire, presents some accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value of approximately 7% means that it requires careful consideration when used as a background or text color. According to WCAG guidelines, to ensure readability, text using this color should be paired with a very light color for sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools are available online to calculate contrast ratios, ensuring compliance. Avoid using #214693 for small text or essential UI elements without proper contrast, as it can be difficult for users with visual impairments to discern. When used for interactive elements like buttons, ensure there are clear visual cues beyond color alone to indicate state changes, such as borders or icons. Furthermore, consider providing alternative color schemes that offer better contrast for users with specific needs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic while providing better contrast for text.
- #e0e0e0
A neutral gray that pairs well with sapphire blue and offers a safe option for text and backgrounds.
- #4169e1
A brighter blue with increased luminace that can be used to highlight elements and improve visibility.
Applications
Web Design for Tech Companies
In web design, sapphire blue can be utilized as a primary color for a company specializing in technology or security, conveying trust and sophistication. It can be used for website headers, call-to-action buttons, and background accents, provided sufficient contrast is maintained for readability. When designing for mobile applications, the color can be used in moderation for icons and navigation bars to avoid overwhelming the user. It is crucial to conduct user testing to ensure the color scheme does not negatively impact usability, particularly for users with visual impairments. Pair it with lighter accent colors to create a balanced and visually appealing interface.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, sapphire blue can serve as an accent color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a calming and elegant atmosphere. It can be used for throw pillows, wall art, or decorative vases. When used in bedrooms, it promotes relaxation and is often paired with neutral colors like gray or beige. It also can be a main color in a bathroom to provide feelings of cleaniness and sophistication. In larger spaces, sapphire blue can be used as a feature wall color, providing depth and visual interest to the room. The key is to balance the intensity of the color with lighter tones to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming.
Fashion Design
In the fashion industry, sapphire blue is a versatile color that can be used in both casual and formal wear. It is a popular choice for evening gowns and suits, exuding elegance and sophistication. When used in casual wear, such as jeans or sweaters, it adds a touch of refinement. This color complements a variety of skin tones and can be paired with various accessories, such as gold or silver jewelry. Sapphire blue is often associated with royalty and is suitable for designers looking to create a luxurious and timeless aesthetic. It is important to consider the fabric type when using sapphire blue, as it can appear different on different materials.