Blue Gem
General Information About Blue Gem (#280C8C)
#280C8C, also referred to as Blue Gem, is a dark shade of blue-purple, belonging to the broader family of blue colors. This hex code represents a specific point in the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color space, where it is composed of 16.1% red, 4.7% green, and 54.9% blue. The color is often associated with royalty, sophistication, and mystery due to its depth and richness. In color theory, understanding the composition of a color like #280C8C is crucial for creating harmonious color palettes. It's important to consider its context and how it interacts with other colors to achieve the desired visual effect. Its CMYK values are C:0.71, M:0.91, Y:0.00, K:0.45.
The hex color #280C8C, also known as Blue Gem, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text or interactive elements. Its low lightness value (approximately 7%) results in poor contrast against common background colors like white. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Blue Gem often falls short of these requirements when paired with light backgrounds. To improve accessibility, consider using Blue Gem sparingly for purely decorative purposes or pair it with very light colors like #FFFFFF (white) or #F0F0F0 (light gray) to ensure an adequate contrast ratio. Tools like contrast checkers can help assess the compliance of color combinations.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4c2882
A lighter shade of purple that provides better contrast against light backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic feel.
- #1e0077
A deeper indigo that may offer a slightly improved contrast ratio while still evoking a sense of richness and depth.
- #382070
A similar but less saturated color is good for backgrounds.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #280C8C can be used sparingly for accent elements or call-to-action buttons. Its dark hue makes it suitable for creating a sense of depth and sophistication. However, due to its low contrast, it should be paired with very light text or used against a very light background to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it in website headers or footers to add a touch of elegance without compromising usability. Its evocative nature can contribute to a memorable user experience when used judiciously.
Fashion Accent Color
In fashion, #280C8C can be used in garments as a primary color for evening wear or as an accent color in accessories. Its rich, jewel-toned quality makes it a great option for adding depth and sophistication to an outfit. It pairs well with metallic accents like gold or silver, creating a luxurious and elegant aesthetic. It's also a versatile color that can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for a variety of occasions.
Interior Design
In interior design, #280C8C is useful for accent walls in a bedroom or lounge. The color is elegant when used in velvet cushions or lampshades. Avoid using the color in small rooms as it can make them feel smaller.