Ebony Clay
General Information
The hex color #22203D, also known as Ebony Clay, is a dark, muted shade residing in the blue-violet spectrum. In the RGB color model, it consists of 13.33% red, 12.55% green, and 23.92% blue. This composition gives it a subtle, sophisticated appearance. The color is often associated with feelings of mystery, depth, and understated elegance. It is frequently used in design contexts where a sense of refinement and subtle sophistication is desired. Its versatility allows it to be paired with various other colors, from bright accent hues to other muted tones, to create diverse aesthetic effects. In web design and graphic arts, understanding its properties is key to leveraging its visual impact effectively.
The color #22203D, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly regarding color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, ideally achieving a contrast ratio that meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14 points bold or 18 points regular). Using a color contrast checker is advisable to verify compliance. Avoid pairing it with other dark colors, as this will significantly reduce readability. Designers should also consider users with low vision or color blindness, providing alternative visual cues such as underlines or icons to convey information. Thoughtful application is crucial to ensure content is accessible to all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #33334d
A slightly lighter shade that provides better contrast against dark text.
- #333333
A neutral gray that works well as a background color, offering good contrast with both light and dark elements.
- #2e2d4a
Provides a similar dark, sophisticated feel while allowing for greater contrast with lighter elements.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Ebony Clay (#22203D) can create a sophisticated and mysterious aesthetic in web design. Its dark, muted tone works well for backgrounds, especially when paired with contrasting brighter colors for text and interactive elements. It’s particularly useful for creating a sense of depth and elegance, making it ideal for websites related to luxury brands, portfolios, or creative agencies. The color should be balanced with whitespace and careful typography to maintain readability and user engagement, ensuring the overall design remains user-friendly and visually appealing.
User Interface Elements
This color can serve as a sophisticated choice for user interface elements in software applications. Its dark tone is less harsh than pure black, providing a more comfortable viewing experience for extended use. Consider using it for sidebars, navigation menus, or settings panels, complementing it with lighter accent colors to highlight key interactive components and improve usability. The subdued nature of Ebony Clay allows for a focus on content without causing eye strain, ensuring an optimal user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ebony Clay serves as a grounding neutral that exudes elegance and sophistication. It can be used on walls to create a moody and intimate atmosphere, particularly in bedrooms or home theaters. When paired with metallic accents like gold or brass, it amplifies the luxurious feel. The color also works well in furniture upholstery, providing a versatile backdrop for decorative pillows and throws. To avoid making the space feel too dark, it’s crucial to balance it with ample natural light and lighter-colored accessories.