Sapphire
General Information about Sapphire (#2E49A8)
The hexadecimal color #2E49A8 is a shade of blue, specifically classified as Sapphire. It is a deep, rich color that evokes feelings of trust, loyalty, and wisdom. In the RGB color model, #2E49A8 is composed of 18.04% red, 28.63% green, and 65.88% blue. In the CMYK color model, which is commonly used for printing, it consists of 73% cyan, 56% magenta, 0% yellow, and 34% black. This color is often associated with precious gemstones and royalty, giving it a sense of elegance and sophistication. Its cooler tone makes it suitable for designs that aim to create a calming and reliable atmosphere.
The color #2E49A8, also known as Sapphire, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text on a white background, the contrast ratio might not meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for normal text (AA compliance). This means users with moderate visual impairments may struggle to read the text comfortably. To improve accessibility, consider using #2E49A8 for larger text sizes (18pt or 14pt bold) where the contrast requirements are less stringent, or pair it with a very light color such as #F0F0F0, #FFFFFF or #E0E0E0 as a background. Alternatively, use a darker background color such as #000000, #111111 or #222222 to ensure sufficient contrast. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can help verify if a specific color combination meets accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A slightly lighter shade provides better contrast on white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #1e3a8a
A darker shade maintains the sapphire feel while offering better contrast as a background color.
- #4b0082
If the goal is to evoke a similar sense of depth and richness but with greater versatility across designs, consider Indigo which offers better contrast with lighter hues.
Applications
Corporate Branding
Sapphire (#2E49A8) can be used to create a sophisticated and trustworthy aesthetic, communicating stability and authority. It is well-suited for websites or applications in the finance or technology industries. This hue can also be incorporated into user interface elements such as buttons or navigation bars to draw attention and create a sense of importance. It is often paired with silver, white, or light gray to create a professional color palette.
Interior Design
In interior design, Sapphire (#2E49A8) is appropriate for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms. It creates a focal point and adds an element of tranquility. The hue pairs beautifully with neutral colors such as beige, gray, and white, or with natural wood tones to create a balanced and inviting space. Using it in small doses, like decorative pillows or art frames, avoids overwhelming the room.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Sapphire (#2E49A8) can be incorporated into garments and accessories for a refined and elegant look. A sapphire dress or blouse communicates confidence and style, while accessories like scarves or handbags can add a pop of color to an outfit. This color is well-suited for both casual and formal wear, and pairs well with silver or gold jewelry for a polished finish.