Sapphire
General Information about Sapphire (#2F4B9B)
The hex color #2F4B9B, commonly referred to as Sapphire, is a deep, rich shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 18.43% red, 29.41% green, and 60.78% blue. The color's name is derived from the precious gemstone, sapphire, known for its intense blue hue. Sapphire is often associated with qualities such as wisdom, loyalty, and trustworthiness. It evokes feelings of calmness, serenity, and sophistication. In color psychology, blue shades are often used to represent stability, confidence, and intelligence. Due to its deep tone, Sapphire can add a touch of elegance and professionalism to various design applications, making it a popular choice in branding, web design, and fashion.
The hex color #2F4B9B, also known as Sapphire, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires light-colored text to ensure readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text to comply with WCAG guidelines. Using tools to check contrast ratios is essential. Also, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of important information. Supplement it with text labels or icons to accommodate users with color vision deficiencies. When using Sapphire for links, ensure there is sufficient contrast between the link color, the surrounding text, and the background, and provide additional cues like underlines or icons on hover or focus states. Consider the overall design and target audience to ensure the color choice is inclusive and accessible.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4f75bc
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast against both light and dark text.
- #5f7a9d
A more muted, desaturated blue that is less visually intense and can be easier on the eyes for extended viewing.
- #536895
A lighter alternative that provides more visual clarity and brightness while retaining a similar aesthetic.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
Sapphire (#2F4B9B) can be used in website design to create a sense of trust, stability, and professionalism. It's well-suited for headers, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons, especially for businesses in finance, technology, or consulting. The color evokes a feeling of reliability and sophistication, making it ideal for brands that want to project a trustworthy image. To avoid overwhelming the user, balance the Sapphire color with neutral backgrounds and lighter accent colors to create a visually appealing and engaging user experience. The color is often used in combination with white and gray, as well as lighter shades of blue.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Sapphire can be used as an accent color in rooms where a calming and sophisticated atmosphere is desired. It works well for accent walls, decorative pillows, or statement furniture pieces. Pair it with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white to create a balanced and harmonious space. For example, Sapphire-colored velvet cushions on a light gray sofa can add a touch of elegance. The color is also often used in combination with wooden elements and metallic accents, which adds an additional layer of sophistication and luxury.
Mobile App Interface
Sapphire can be effectively used in mobile app design to create a modern and professional look. It's suitable for various elements such as navigation bars, buttons, and status bars. This color helps to establish a sense of trust and reliability, making it ideal for apps related to finance, education, and productivity. When designing with Sapphire, ensure there's sufficient contrast between the text and background for optimal readability. Light text on a Sapphire background can work well for important notifications or section headers, while maintaining visual clarity and a cohesive user interface.