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#79787B

Brightness
120.6
HSL (°,%,%)
260°, 1%, 48%
HSV V %
48%
Lab
50.6, 1.0, -1.5
PNG size
6.0 KB
Tone / Feel
mid, muted cool hue
Black text 4.79:1 AA (normal) · AAA (large) (large)
White text 4.39:1 Fail (normal) · AA (large) (large)

Recommended text: Black (4.79:1 — AA / AAA (large))

Color Profile: #79787B

Common Name: Steel Wool

RGB: (121, 120, 123)

HSL: (240, 2%, 48%)

Contrast vs White: 8.9:1 (AA Pass)

Contrast vs Black: 5.5:1 (AA Pass)

Mood: Steel Wool is a muted, sophisticated color with a subtle blend of gray and purple hues. It evokes a sense of quiet elegance and durability. Often associated with modern design, it strikes a balance between neutral tones and refined warmth.

Close Matches:

  • Benjamin Moore - Steel Wool #797C7E (ΔE=2.09)
  • Behr - Rising Smoke #787A7E (ΔE=1.43)
  • Hempel - Ocean Frigate #77757B (ΔE=2.08)
  • PPG Pittsburgh Paints - Magic Dust #817C85 (ΔE=4.36)

Why Designers Use It:

  • Neutral, Versatile Palette: Steel Wool's subtle gray tones make it a versatile color that complements a variety of design styles, from minimalist to industrial chic. It acts as an anchor color, allowing brighter accents to shine without overwhelming the design.
  • Modern Appeal: It’s frequently used in contemporary settings for interiors, particularly in urban, sleek designs. Steel Wool fits into the current trend for cool, understated colors that still exude sophistication.
  • Industrious and Resilient: As its name suggests, Steel Wool evokes an industrial, almost mechanical aesthetic. It’s often chosen for designs that want to reflect strength, resilience, or a “working class” aesthetic. This makes it a favorite in tech, automotive, and machinery branding.
  • Popular in Technology & Machinery: Steel Wool is often seen in product designs and branding within industries that emphasize precision and durability, such as electronics, automotive, and hardware.
  • Regional Influence: While the color may not have a direct regional connection, its use in industrial design connects it to countries with strong manufacturing sectors, such as Germany, the United States, and Japan.

Palette neighbours