Psychology
Black is decisive — there's no other color where small shifts in saturation feel as loaded. It carries weight, formality, and a hint of mystery.
Meaning
Power, elegance, rebellion, and mourning — sometimes all at once. In fashion it signals confidence; in branding it telegraphs luxury or counter-culture.
Applications
Premium brands, editorial design, and high-contrast UI dark modes. Pair with white for timeless minimalism or with warm metallics for luxury.
Conversion
HEX
12101A
RGB
18, 16, 26
HSL
252, 24%, 8%
HSB
252, 38%, 10%
CMYK
31, 38, 0, 90
LAB
5, 3, -6
LCH
5, 7, 292
OKLCH
0.18, 0.02, 293
XYZ
1, 1, 1
LUV
5, 0, -3
HWB
252, 6%, 90%
Pantone
5395 C
Harmonies
Shades & tints
Similar named colors
Browse every named black on shades of black, or all families on colors.