Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #00059F, is a deep blue hue with a rich history. Derived from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' it was originally made from ground lapis lazuli, a rare and expensive stone imported from Afghanistan. Because of the origins and the production of the pigment, it was historically prized by artists and often reserved for depicting the robes of the Virgin Mary in religious paintings. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, making it an accessible color for various applications. In the RGB color model, #00059F is composed of 0% red, 0.2% green, and 62.4% blue. This color evokes feelings of calmness, depth, and sophistication. It is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality.
The hex color #00059F, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low luminance value makes it a very dark color, providing insufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds, particularly white. Text rendered in this color on a white background, or vice versa, will be difficult to read for users with normal vision and even more problematic for individuals with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to use this color sparingly and always pair it with a background color that provides a high contrast ratio, ideally exceeding the WCAG AA standards of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Careful consideration should also be given to users with color blindness, as this deep blue may not be easily distinguishable from other dark shades. Tools that check color contrast and simulate color blindness can be invaluable in this assessment process. Also, consider using alternative colors or adding borders/outlines to create more separation between elements.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design, Branding, Interior Design, and Fashion
Ultramarine (#00059F) can serve as an accent color in web design, lending a touch of sophistication and depth. However, due to its darkness, it's best suited for backgrounds in limited areas or as a subtle highlight rather than for extensive text. In branding, it evokes feelings of trust, stability, and intelligence, making it suitable for financial institutions or educational organizations. In interior design, ultramarine can be used as a bold statement wall color or in accessories like cushions and artwork to add a pop of color to a neutral space. Because it is a dark color, it is best if used in large rooms with access to natural light. In fashion, ultramarine makes a striking statement as an evening gown or a blazer, projecting confidence and style. However, it may not be the best option for everyday wear because the shade can appear very dark under several artificial lighting conditions.
Data Visualization and Digital Arts
In data visualization, #00059F can effectively highlight key data points or represent a specific category. Its strong presence ensures the highlighted data stands out. It works well in charts and graphs where a distinct visual cue is needed. When creating digital art, designers often use this color to create depth and shadow, especially in illustrations or digital paintings. It is often used in the creation of fantasy themed designs. Its rich hue can bring a sense of mystery and intrigue to the artwork. Also, #00059F provides a bold alternative to lighter blues. It's suitable for backgrounds, borders, or other key elements that need to draw attention. However, it's important to use it in moderation to maintain a balanced and visually appealing design.
UI/UX Design, Print Media, Video Games
In UI/UX design, using #00059F for interactive elements such as buttons, links, or navigation bars can help guide users through an application. However, careful consideration must be given to contrast to ensure readability and accessibility for all users. Also, in print media #00059F can be used for branding, logos, or text. It provides a professional and reliable appearance. Since this color is dark, it is best used on a white or light-colored background to ensure good contrast. In video games, #00059F may be employed to indicate important characters, items, or locations. The color's richness can add depth and visual interest to the game's environment. However, care should be taken to use it judiciously, as overusing the color may reduce the contrast and make it difficult to see what is important.