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Cobalt Blue

Cobalt blue is a bright, eye-catching true blue created from the mineral cobalt. Sincere, calming, fascinating, and soothing, this stunning hue is perennially loved for interior decorating. Because of its bold appearance, it can easily overwhelm spaces. Therefore, it’s best distributed in smaller doses. Towels, pillows, blankets, and throws are great ways to enjoy this alluring hue in kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and living areas. Pair cobalt blue with white or cream and various shades of yellow for a comfortable, inviting feeling. Southwestern-inspired themes also use this hue, blending it with other adventurous colors such as terracotta, vibrant reds, and bright yellows and greens. Cobalt blue’s lovely demeanor works wonderfully as part of a monochromatic color theme. Blend it with other shades of blue and touches of soft purple then accent it with white and cream for a dreamy effect, perfect for a bedroom or meditation space. This effect also works well in offices to elicit a calming effect.

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More Information About Cobalt Blue


What is the hex code?

The hex code for cobalt blue is #385D8D. Similar hex codes include #0F00AB (neon blue) and #009DAB (blue Munsell).


What color is cobalt blue?

Cobalt blue is a vibrant, eye-catching true blue. A bit lighter than navy and darker than sky blue, it is a highly saturated hue that's a must in interior design.


What is the history?

Cobalt blue is a vibrant true blue created from the mineral cobalt. This pigment, a blend of cobalt oxide and alumina, is stable even in high temperatures. For that reason, it is favored for creating beautiful glazes for ceramics and paint. This stunning hue was notably used by painters such as Monet and Van Gogh.


What is the color meaning and symbolism of this hue?

Because of its connection with high art, cobalt blue is often associated with ingenuity and enlightenment. It is sincere, calming, fascinating, soothing, and, like all blues, is found to be inspiring, classic, and eternal.


What colors go best with cobalt blue?

Cobalt blue pairs nicely with light pink, mint green, and silver. It also pairs well with primary red and yellow.

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Cobalt Blue vs Faded Denim
Faded denim is a lighter shade of blue with soft gray undertones. As opposed to its bolder counterpart, this delicate hue works nicely in large doses. Paint an entire bedroom, bathroom, or kitchen this fetching hue for a cool and relaxing vibe.
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Cobalt Blue vs Blue Gray
Blue gray is a lighter shade of blue with subtle tints of gray. This gentle hue works well for spa-inspired spaces, bathrooms, and bedrooms.
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Cobalt Blue vs Sky Blue
Sky blue is a much paler, wispier shade of blue. Because of this airy effect, it works well in both interior and exterior spaces.

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