The color navy is often described as a dark shade of blue. But is it technically the same color as dark blue, or is navy considered a separate and distinct color on the color wheel? To answer this question, we need to take a closer look at how color is classified and the subtle differences between shades like navy and dark blue.
Defining navy blue
Navy blue refers to a very dark shade of the color blue. It is considered a deeper, richer shade than basic dark blue. Navy gets its name from the dark blue uniforms and dress coats worn by officers in the British Royal Navy. This deep blue color became associated with the navy and maritime activities. Over time, the name “navy blue” emerged to describe this particular dark shade of blue.
On the basic color wheel used by artists and designers, navy blue sits between basic blue and dark blue. It is darker than primary blue, brighter than midnight blue, and bluer than indigo. When visualizing navy blue, think of the dark blue-black color of deep ocean waters far from shore. The RGB values for navy blue are:
- R = 0
- G = 31
- B = 63
This dark blue shade got its name from a specific use and cultural context, but navy remains fundamentally a shade of blue. It sits squarely on the blue side of the color spectrum.
Defining dark blue
Dark blue is a broader term. It refers to any shade of blue that is darker than primary blue. On the artist’s color wheel, dark blues span the range between basic blue and midnight blue. This encompasses many shades of rich, deep blues.
There are no fixed RGB values for dark blue since it describes a range of shades. But in general, dark blues have higher blue values and lower red and green values. They fall around:
- R = 0 – 20
- G = 0 – 50
- B = 100 – 255
Navy blue fits squarely within the scope of “dark blue.” It is a darker, bluer shade compared to primary blue. So navy is always considered a type of dark blue. But not all dark blues are navy blue.
Comparing navy and dark blue
Looking at a color wheel makes it easier to compare navy blue to the wider range of dark blues.
| Dark blue shades | RGB values |
|---|---|
| Navy blue | R = 0, G = 31, B = 63 |
| Dark blue | R = 0, G = 0, B = 139 |
| Sapphire blue | R = 15, G = 82, B = 186 |
| Midnight blue | R = 25, G = 25, B = 112 |
As this table shows, navy blue is significantly darker and bluer than basic dark blue. Sapphire blue is brighter and slightly purpler than navy, while midnight blue is the darkest shade bordering on black.
Navy blue fits on the darker end of the blue spectrum. It is not quite as dark as midnight. But it is significantly darker and deeper than primary dark blue.
Using navy vs. dark blue
Is there any meaningful difference between navy and dark blue when using them in design? The two terms are sometimes used interchangeably in fashion and decor. But there are subtle contextual implications.
Navy suggests a richer, deeper shade of blue. It evokes thoughts of the ocean depths or a military officer’s uniform. Dark blue is a more general color and can encompass a wider range of shades. Many graphic designers and artists prefer referring to specific shades like navy rather than using generic terms like dark blue.
When choosing a color for branding or visual identity, navy implies heritage, trustworthiness, authority, and stability. Dark blue is calmer and more subtle. Both shades are versatile for branding, but navy makes a stronger statement.
Conclusion
Navy blue is technically a type of dark blue. But it refers to a specific shade on the darker end of the blue spectrum. Navy has unique cultural associations with naval history. It also conveys richer depth and color than basic dark blue.
There is some subjectivity and overlap in color definitions. Not everyone will agree on the exact boundary between navy and dark blue. But in general, navy is considered a deeper, richer shade of blue associated with maritime and military contexts. This sets it apart from the broader category of general dark blues.
So in summary, navy blue is a distinct shade of dark blue with its own unique style implications. The two colors are closely related. But navy has enough special characteristics to be considered more than just generic “dark blue.” Next time you come across navy blue, you can feel confident in describing it as a rich, deep dark blue with its own sense of style.
