Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #000598, also known as Ultramarine, is a very dark shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family, which is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and trust. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0% red, 0.31% green, and 59.61% blue. Its CMYK values are 100% cyan, 99% magenta, 0% yellow, and 63% black. This dark shade of blue can evoke feelings of depth, sophistication, and mystery. Ultramarine's historical significance lies in its origin as a pigment derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli. This made it highly valued and expensive, often used in medieval and Renaissance paintings, particularly for depicting the robes of the Virgin Mary. Because of its origins it was most often associated with royalty and piety.
The hex color #000598, a very dark shade of blue known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Due to its extremely low luminance, text rendered in this color requires very light foreground colors to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements. A sufficient contrast ratio is crucial for users with visual impairments to distinguish text from the background. Using lighter shades of yellow, white, or even pale blues or greens as foreground colors would be necessary to ensure readability. Web developers must meticulously test color combinations using tools that measure contrast ratios to comply with accessibility standards. In cases where this color is essential for branding, offering alternative high-contrast themes becomes a practical approach to accommodate users with diverse visual needs. Therefore, while the aesthetic appeal of #000598 might be considerable, its application demands careful consideration of accessibility implications.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast and readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #007bff
A more vibrant blue that provides better visibility and is more accessible for users with visual impairments.
- #001f3f
A darker, but more accessible shade of blue that improves readability.
Applications
Corporate Branding
In branding, #000598 can be used to evoke feelings of trust, security, and professionalism. It's suitable for financial institutions, tech companies, or any business aiming to project stability. When incorporating this color into a brand identity, it is essential to complement it with lighter, contrasting colors to ensure readability and visual appeal. For example, using #000598 as a background color with white or yellow text can create a sophisticated and trustworthy image. However, its usage should be carefully balanced to avoid overwhelming users with excessive darkness. Consider using it sparingly in logos or website headers, paired with more neutral tones for the body content, to maintain a professional and accessible design.
Web Design
In web design, #000598 can serve as an accent color for buttons, navigation bars, or headings. Its dark hue works well to draw attention to specific elements on a page. However, due to its low contrast, it is crucial to use it with appropriate foreground colors, such as white or light yellow, to ensure readability. Additionally, it can be used in website footers or sidebars to create depth and visual interest. When using #000598 in web design, it is vital to adhere to accessibility standards to provide a seamless user experience for individuals with visual impairments. Tools like contrast checkers can help ensure that text and interactive elements meet the necessary contrast ratios.
Interior Design
In interior design, #000598 can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It can be incorporated into walls, furniture, or accent pieces to add depth and richness to a room. When using this color in interior spaces, it is essential to balance it with lighter hues to prevent the space from feeling too dark or enclosed. Consider pairing it with soft whites, creams, or light grays to create a harmonious and inviting environment. Additionally, incorporating metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can add a touch of luxury and elegance to the space. Its a great color for studies, libraries and bedrooms where a sense of serenity is important.