Shadows in Dark Mode: Tonal Elevation vs. Opacity

Against a dark charcoal or black canvas, dark drop shadows become invisible. Applying black shadows to dark mode surfaces provides zero perceived elevation.

Dark Mode Elevation Rules

1. Lighten Surface Tones: The higher an element's elevation, the closer it is to the virtual light source. Therefore, higher elevation surfaces must use progressively lighter shades of gray or charcoal.
2. Subtle 1px Border Highlights: Add a delicate 1px border stroke (rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.08)) around elevated dark cards to define physical edges.
3. Deep Ambient Shadows: When dark cards overlap other dark cards, use subtle black ambient occlusion with a larger spread to prevent visual blending.