What Color is Cracked Slate
Cracked Slate is a sophisticated medium-dark gray characterized by subtle violet undertones. It evokes the weathered texture of ancient metamorphic rock found in historical architecture. This versatile neutral bridges the gap between industrial coolness and organic warmth, offering a grounding presence without the harshness of pure black.
What color is opposite Cracked Slate?
The opposite color to Cracked Slate is Ironside Gray (#676b66).
Additional Information
- Color Family: Gray
- Temperature: Cool
- Associated Season: Autumn
- Complementary Color: #676B66
- Brightness: 103/255
- Saturation: 5%
Colors That Pair Well With Cracked Slate
Complementary
Pair with Ironside Gray for a harmonious, balanced look. Great for backgrounds and accents.
High Contrast
Use Star Dust for maximum readability. Ideal for text or critical UI elements.
Harmonious Depth
Use lighter and darker shades for a sophisticated, cohesive design. Great for backgrounds, text, and subtle accents.
Color Variations
Tints (add white)
Tones (add grey)
Cracked Slate History
Historically, gray pigments were derived from carbon black mixed with lime or lead white, a technique utilized since antiquity to depict shadows and depth. The specific variation of Cracked Slate mimics the hues found in slate quarries, a material exploited by the Romans for roofing and infrastructure due to its cleavage and durability.
In art history, this complex gray gained prominence during the Realism movement of the 19th century, where artists sought to capture the gritty truth of urban environments and industrialization. Later, it became a staple in Brutalism, an architectural style emphasizing raw concrete and honest materials, relying on the interplay of light and shadow on textured surfaces.
Meaning & Psychology
Psychologically, this shade represents stability and solid foundations, mirroring the stone for which it is named. It encourages a sense of composure and practicality, acting as a visual anchor that reduces chaotic energy in a space.
Unlike pure black, which can feel oppressive, Cracked Slate suggests compromise and diplomacy through its balanced composition. The violet undertone adds a layer of mystery and introspection, preventing the color from feeling purely utilitarian or emotionally flat.
In Nature
In the natural world, this hue is predominantly found in geological formations, specifically metamorphic rock created under intense heat and pressure. It also appears in the protective plumage of urban birds like pigeons and mourning doves, as well as the underside of heavy storm clouds promising imminent rain.
How To Use Cracked Slate
Designers utilize Cracked Slate as a softer alternative to black, providing high contrast for typography while reducing eye strain on digital interfaces. It serves as an excellent anchor in interior spaces, grounding airy palettes or adding depth to monochrome schemes.
When pairing materials, this shade complements warm metals like brass and copper, creating a juxtaposition between industrial cool and metallic warmth. For accessibility, it maintains sufficient contrast ratios against white or pastel backgrounds, ensuring readability in web and print design.
Related Words
Curated Palettes
Industrial Lavender
A soft, moody palette mixing the hardness of slate with the softness of floral purples.
Gilded Stone
High contrast luxury featuring cracked slate against rich metallic gold and cream.
Stormy Coast
A natural, muted palette inspired by wet rocks, sand, and ocean mist.
Color Conversions
Color Blindness Simulation
CSS Snippets
color: #69656A;
color: rgb(105, 101, 106);
background-color: #69656A;
border: 3px solid #69656A;
box-shadow: 0 4px 12px #69656A66;
background: linear-gradient(135deg, #69656A 0%, #ffffff 100%);
Shop Premium Products in Cracked Slate
This isn't just a mockup. We'll custom make high-quality home decor in this exact shade, just for you.
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Product Details
Add a touch of luxury to your home with our premium Eco Velvet cushions. Soft to the touch, these cushions are perfect for adding comfort and style to any room.
- Material: Soft Eco Velvet.
- Feel: Velvety soft finish.
- Print: Double-sided, all-over vibrant color using water-based inks.
- Care: Machine washable at 30°C.
- Construction: Handmade to order with a concealed zipper.
Eco Credentials
We believe in sustainable style. Our cushions are crafted with the planet in mind.
- Made to Order: Produced only when you order, eliminating overproduction and waste.
- Water-Based Inks: Printed using neo-pigment, water-based inks that are non-hazardous, toxin-free, and vegan-friendly.
- Local Fulfilment: Produced locally where possible to reduce carbon emissions from transport.
- Vegan Friendly: No animal products are used in the production of these cushions.
What Goes With Cracked Slate?
Explore color palettes containing Cracked Slate and discover harmonious combinations for your designs.
Analogous
Complementary
Split-complementary
Monochromatic
Accessibility
Contrast with Black and White
Contrast with Black
UI Examples
"Color is a power which directly influences the soul."
Contrast Ratio
Contrast with White
UI Examples
"Color is a power which directly influences the soul."
Contrast Ratio
Closest Color Matches
Prismacolor
70 % Warm Grey
#PC1056 • #6D6262
Caran d'ache Luminance 6901
French Grey
#808 • #685C57
Similar Colors
View all Gray colors →Colors with similar hex values and appearance to Cracked Slate
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hex code for Cracked Slate?
What colors go with Cracked Slate?
Is Cracked Slate accessible for text?
How do I use Cracked Slate in CSS?
You can use Cracked Slate in CSS with its hex code. Here is an example class:
.cracked-slate {
background-color: #69656A;
color: #FFFFFF;
}For more snippets including gradients, see the CSS snippets section.