Sapphire
General Information about Sapphire
The hexadecimal color #284B99, commonly referred to as Sapphire, is a deep, saturated blue hue. It's composed of 15.7% red, 29.4% green, and 60% blue. In the RGB color space, it signifies a dominance of blue, contributing to its calming and sophisticated characteristics. Sapphire is often associated with qualities such as trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth and heaven. It carries historical and cultural significance, frequently linked to royalty and noble status. The color's depth and richness lend themselves to a wide range of applications in both digital and physical design, from creating elegant user interfaces to adding a touch of luxury to branding and decor.
The color #284B99, also known as Sapphire, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly regarding color contrast. When used as a background color, it necessitates light-colored text for readability, ideally with a contrast ratio meeting WCAG guidelines (minimum 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Insufficient contrast can hinder users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, from perceiving content effectively. Ensure that any text or interactive elements on a Sapphire background are tested with accessibility tools to verify compliance. When used for text itself, consider pairing it with a very light background, like white or a very light gray, to ensure enough contrast. Thoughtful color choices are crucial for creating inclusive and accessible digital experiences.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3462b4
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers better contrast against darker text.
- #5d7cb1
A more desaturated blue that can serve as a neutral background, making foreground elements stand out more effectively.
- #4169e1
A brighter blue alternative that provides a visually engaging option while potentially improving contrast ratios depending on its usage.
Applications
Website Design
Sapphire (#284B99) can be used in website design for headers, navigation bars, or call-to-action buttons to convey trust, stability, and professionalism. Its deep blue hue evokes a sense of security and reliability, making it suitable for finance, technology, or corporate websites. When using Sapphire, designers should ensure sufficient contrast with text and other interactive elements to maintain accessibility. The color can also be incorporated into branding materials such as logos and brochures to create a consistent and recognizable brand identity.
Interior Design
In interior design, Sapphire can serve as an accent color in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices to introduce a touch of elegance and sophistication. It works well when paired with neutral colors like gray, white, or beige to create a balanced and harmonious atmosphere. Sapphire can be incorporated through decorative pillows, wall art, or area rugs to add visual interest without overwhelming the space. The color can also be used in furniture pieces such as sofas or armchairs to make a bold statement.
Fashion
Sapphire is a captivating choice in fashion, lending an air of sophistication and depth to various garments and accessories. It's often used in evening wear, such as dresses and gowns, to exude elegance and grace. Sapphire also finds its place in casual wear, like sweaters and blouses, offering a rich, refined touch. Accessories like scarves, handbags, and jewelry in Sapphire can punctuate an outfit with a striking visual accent, enhancing the overall style with its luxurious and versatile appeal.