Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #000098, is a deep, rich shade of blue. Its name originates from the Latin "ultramarinus," meaning "beyond the sea," as it was originally derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli, which was imported to Europe from distant lands. Chemically, ultramarine is a complex sodium aluminum silicate with sulfur, giving it its distinctive hue. Historically, ultramarine pigment was highly valued and expensive, often reserved for important artistic commissions, such as depicting the robes of the Virgin Mary in religious paintings. Modern synthetic ultramarine is more affordable and widely used in paints, cosmetics, and plastics. The color is associated with depth, stability, and sophistication, and is often used to evoke feelings of tranquility and trust.
The hex color #000098, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based contexts. Its very low luminance of approximately 0.0007 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds, including the standard white (#FFFFFF). According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Ultramarine often fails to meet these criteria, especially for smaller text sizes. To enhance accessibility, consider using Ultramarine sparingly, primarily for decorative elements or backgrounds where text is not overlaid. If text is necessary, pair it with a very light color, such as white or a pale yellow, and meticulously test the contrast ratio using online tools to confirm compliance with accessibility standards. Alternative, brighter shades of blue or other colors might be more suitable for text elements in many user interfaces.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #0033cc
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds.
- #3366ff
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements.
- #4b0082
A deep indigo alternative that maintains a sense of sophistication while improving readability compared to pure Ultramarine.
Applications
Website Design Accent
Ultramarine can be used as an accent color in website design to create a sense of depth and sophistication, especially in headers, navigation bars, or interactive elements. Given its dark nature, ensure sufficient contrast with text and other UI components for accessibility. When used as a background, it effectively highlights lighter text or graphic elements, creating visual interest and drawing attention to key areas of the page. Furthermore, Ultramarine is suitable for creating a professional and trustworthy ambiance for corporate websites or portfolio designs, conveying stability and reliability.
Fashion Design
In fashion design, Ultramarine offers a versatile option for creating both bold and subtle looks. It can be used as a primary color for evening gowns or formal wear, exuding elegance and refinement. When paired with neutral colors like white, grey, or black, it creates a sophisticated and balanced ensemble. As an accent color, Ultramarine can enhance accessories, such as scarves, handbags, or jewelry, adding a pop of color to a more subdued outfit. Its association with royalty and luxury makes it suitable for high-end fashion collections and statement pieces.
Interior Design
Ultramarine is a popular choice for interior design, especially in spaces where a sense of calm and tranquility is desired. It can be used as a wall color in bedrooms or living rooms to create a soothing and relaxing atmosphere. Paired with lighter shades of blue or white, it evokes a coastal or nautical theme. Ultramarine also works well as an accent color in furniture, such as sofas or armchairs, adding a touch of elegance to a room. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can complement Ultramarine, creating a luxurious and sophisticated interior.