Ebony Clay
General Information about Ebony Clay (#222244)
The hex color #222244, also known as Ebony Clay, is a dark, desaturated blue-violet hue. It belongs to the blue color family and has a subtle, understated quality. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 13.33% red, 13.33% green, and 26.67% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 50% cyan, 50% magenta, 0% yellow, and 73% black. This color is often associated with sophistication, calmness, and depth. Its muted tone makes it versatile for various design applications, where it can be used to create a sense of elegance or understated style. It is a relatively dark color, which affects its usability in terms of accessibility and contrast, requiring careful consideration of its context.
The hex color #222244, also known as Ebony Clay, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its low luminance value (dark shade) results in a low contrast ratio against standard white backgrounds. This can make text difficult to read for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to use this color with lighter backgrounds or text colors that provide sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Also, avoid using this color as the sole means of conveying important information, as color perception varies among individuals. Consider providing alternative cues, such as text labels or icons, to ensure that content is accessible to everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
A more saturated color adds vibrancy and can be used to draw attention to specific elements, while still complementing the original color.
A lighter and less saturated tone provides higher accesibility.
Applications
Website Background
Ebony Clay (#222244) can be used as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sophisticated and professional look. Its dark hue provides a strong visual anchor, allowing lighter content and navigational elements to stand out. When paired with a contrasting text color, such as white or light gray, it can improve readability and user experience. Additionally, it can be incorporated into the website's color scheme to reinforce brand identity and create a cohesive design. Its subtle, muted tone makes it suitable for various industries, including technology, finance, and consulting.
Interior Design Accent
This color can serve as an accent color in interior design, especially in modern or minimalist spaces. Imagine it on an accent wall in a living room or bedroom, adding depth without overwhelming the space. It pairs well with lighter neutrals like beige, cream, or gray, creating a balanced and serene atmosphere. The color can also be used for furniture upholstery or decorative accessories like cushions and throws, providing a subtle pop of color against a neutral backdrop. In this context, it evokes a sense of tranquility and sophistication.
Data Visualization
Ebony Clay can be utilized in data visualization to represent less significant data points or background elements. Its dark shade helps to differentiate it from brighter, more prominent data series, preventing visual clutter and allowing users to focus on key information. For example, it can be used for gridlines, axis labels, or secondary data sets in charts and graphs. The muted tone ensures that it does not compete with the primary data, while still providing visual structure and context. This approach is particularly useful in complex dashboards or reports where clarity and readability are essential.