Blue Gem
General Information about Blue Gem
The hexadecimal color #280D8B, often referred to as Blue Gem, is a deep, rich shade of blue-purple. It resides in the blue-violet hue range and exhibits a relatively low lightness value, contributing to its dark and intense appearance. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 15.7% red, 5.1% green, and 54.5% blue. This composition gives it a distinct cool tone. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 71% cyan, 91% magenta, 0% yellow, and 45% black. Due to its depth and saturation, it is often associated with feelings of sophistication, mystery, and luxury. This color is commonly used to evoke a sense of elegance and can be found in various design applications.
The hex color #280D8B, also known as Blue Gem, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its low lightness value. Its contrast ratio against white is relatively poor, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to distinguish text or elements using this color. When using this color, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with the background, ideally adhering to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA or AAA standards. Consider pairing it with very light colors like whites, creams, or pale yellows to improve readability. Avoid using it for essential interactive elements or large blocks of text without careful contrast adjustments. Providing alternative styling options, such as high-contrast themes, can greatly improve the user experience for everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4c35ac
A lighter shade of purple that still retains some of the original color's depth but offers better contrast.
- #5d40a3
A more desaturated purple that can be easier on the eyes when used extensively.
- #5f30e2
A brighter shade of blue-purple that provides a more vivid alternative while improving contrast.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Blue Gem can be used sparingly as an accent color for headers, buttons, or borders to add a touch of sophistication and depth. However, it's important to use it judiciously and ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements. It is well-suited for themes evoking luxury, mystery, or creativity, such as sites for artists, musicians, or high-end products. Avoid using it as a primary background color due to its darkness and potential strain on the eyes. When used strategically, it can greatly enhance the visual appeal of a website.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, Blue Gem is reminiscent of precious stones and can be used in evening wear or accessories to create a sense of elegance and luxury. It pairs well with metallic accents like silver or gold and can be used in velvet, satin, or silk fabrics for a rich, opulent look. It can also be used as an accent color in jewelry or handbags, adding a pop of color to an outfit. This color is suitable for creating bold, confident, and sophisticated style statements.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Blue Gem can be employed to add a touch of drama and depth to a space. It is best used as an accent color in small doses, such as in throw pillows, artwork, or decorative accessories. It works well in spaces where a feeling of calm sophistication is desired, like home offices or bedrooms. When using this color, pair it with lighter, more neutral colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Materials like velvet, silk, or polished wood can amplify the luxuriousness of this color.