Graphite
General Information about #231308 (Graphite)
The hex color #231308, often referred to as Graphite, is a very dark shade of brown or gray, reminiscent of the mineral graphite used in pencils. It has low saturation and luminance, contributing to its muted, earthy appearance. In the RGB color model, it consists of 14.12% red, 7.45% green, and 3.14% blue. This color tends to evoke feelings of sophistication, subtlety, and understated elegance. Its neutrality makes it a versatile choice in design, often used as a background or accent color to create depth and contrast without overwhelming other elements. The color is frequently found in modern and minimalist designs, where its calming presence can help to ground bolder elements. Because of its association with natural materials, it can also give a sense of groundedness and practicality.
The hex color #231308, also known as Graphite, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its low luminance. Its dark nature results in a very low contrast ratio against standard white backgrounds, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to read text or distinguish elements using this color. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to pair this color with much lighter hues. Consider using white or very pale shades of gray or beige for text and interactive elements. Ensure that the contrast ratio meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, aiming for a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Providing sufficient contrast will greatly enhance the usability of websites and applications for all users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Furthermore, consider providing alternative visual cues, such as icons or text labels, to ensure that information is conveyed effectively to users who may have difficulty perceiving the color.
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Alternative colors
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Graphite (#231308) can be used in website headers or footers to provide a grounding visual element. Due to its dark nature, it's most effective when combined with lighter text and accent colors to maintain readability and visual interest. This color is also well-suited for backgrounds in sections of websites that require a subtle, sophisticated, and understated appearance, especially when you want to make content stand out.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Graphite can serve as an accent color in modern spaces, such as painting a feature wall or selecting furniture upholstery. It evokes a sense of understated elegance and works particularly well when contrasted with lighter wall colors and metallic accents. It can also be a sophisticated choice for decorative accessories like vases, picture frames, or lamps, adding depth and visual interest to the overall aesthetic of the room. When balanced with natural light and warmer tones, Graphite brings a touch of refinement to any space.
Branding for sophisticated businesses
Graphite is a good choice for branding materials that want to convey sophistication and reliability. It can be used for logos, stationery, and marketing collateral to create a refined and professional image. This color works best when paired with crisp, clean typography and minimalist designs to enhance its understated elegance. It can also be used in packaging design to create a sense of luxury and exclusivity.