Sapphire
General Information about Sapphire (#254CA5)
The hex color #254CA5, also known as Sapphire, is a deep, saturated shade of blue that falls within the range of blue colors in the color spectrum. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 14.5% red, 30.0% green, and 64.7% blue. This color is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and serenity. It evokes feelings of trust, loyalty, and stability, making it a popular choice for branding and design across various industries. Sapphire is a versatile color that can be used to create a wide range of moods and effects, from calming and peaceful to bold and sophisticated. Its depth and richness make it a standout color that can add a touch of elegance to any project.
The hex color #254CA5, also known as Sapphire, presents some accessibility challenges, especially regarding text contrast. When using this color as a background, it's crucial to select a foreground text color that provides sufficient contrast to ensure readability. White (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of gray are generally good choices, offering a contrast ratio that meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. Conversely, using darker colors like black (#000000) or dark grays as text on a #254CA5 background can result in a low contrast ratio, making the text difficult to read for users, especially those with visual impairments. To ensure optimal accessibility, it is recommended to utilize contrast checking tools to verify that the contrast ratio between the foreground and background colors meets or exceeds the minimum recommended levels outlined in the WCAG guidelines. Also, when using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links, ensure that the hover, focus, and active states have sufficient contrast to indicate their interactive nature.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic while potentially offering better contrast with darker text.
- #003399
A more saturated blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention without overwhelming the design.
- #4682b4
A muted, desaturated blue that provides a calming effect and works well as a background color.
Applications
Website Design
Sapphire (#254CA5) can be used as a primary color in website designs for tech companies or educational institutions. Its rich, deep hue conveys a sense of trust, authority, and sophistication. It works well for headings, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons. Consider pairing it with lighter shades of blue or neutral colors like white and gray to create a balanced and visually appealing design. It is not recommended as a background for large amounts of text, but it can be used as an accent color for highlighting important information.
Interior Design
In interior design, Sapphire can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It can be applied to accent walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories. The deep blue hue evokes a sense of tranquility and stability, making it suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. Pair it with warm neutrals like beige or cream to create a balanced and inviting space. Add metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance the luxurious feel of the color.
Fashion Design
Sapphire (#254CA5) can be used to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to fashion designs. It can be incorporated into evening gowns, suits, or accessories such as scarves and handbags. The deep blue hue complements a variety of skin tones and can be paired with other colors like black, white, or gold to create a striking and memorable look. When used in smaller doses, such as in jewelry or nail polish, sapphire can add a pop of color without being overwhelming.