Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#000998)
The hex color code #000998 represents a shade of blue known as Ultramarine. Ultramarine is a deep, vivid blue color that has been prized since ancient times, originally derived from the gemstone lapis lazuli. In the RGB color model, #000998 is composed of 0% red, 3.53% green, and 59.61% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 100% cyan, 94% magenta, 0% yellow, and 40% black. This color falls under the category of cool colors and is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and trust. Due to its deep hue, it's often used in branding and design to convey sophistication and reliability. Its name is originated from the Latin 'ultramarinus', literally 'beyond the sea', as the pigment was imported from Asia by sea.
The color #000998, a deep ultramarine, presents considerable accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value means it offers very little contrast against light backgrounds, making text or interactive elements difficult to discern for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, it would fail most contrast ratio tests against standard white backgrounds, requiring careful consideration for foreground colors. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to pair this color with significantly lighter shades, such as yellows or whites, to achieve a sufficient contrast ratio (at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Avoid using #000998 for essential UI components or informative text without a high-contrast pairing. Providing alternative color schemes or allowing user customization can further improve accessibility for individuals with specific visual needs. Also consider that colorblind users may perceive this color differently, so test designs with simulations for various types of colorblindness.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #000998 can be used as a background color for headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It pairs well with lighter accent colors such as whites, yellows, or light blues for text and interactive elements. However, it should be used sparingly for large areas of text due to its low contrast. For instance, a website for a financial institution might use this color to evoke trust and stability. A sleek, modern design could incorporate #000998 as a subtle background for call-to-action buttons when paired with a bright, contrasting text color.
Interior Design
In interior design, ultramarine can be incorporated as an accent color in furniture, wall art, or decorative pillows. Because it's a cool tone, it is suitable to create a serene and calming atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It can be effectively combined with neutral colors such as gray, beige, or white to balance the depth of the blue. A single ultramarine wall in a room can serve as a focal point, while ultramarine-colored accessories can add pops of color without overwhelming the space. In children's rooms, consider using lighter shades to create a playful ambiance.
Fashion
Ultramarine in fashion adds an element of sophistication and elegance. It works beautifully in evening wear such as gowns and cocktail dresses, creating a striking and memorable look. It can be used in suits, jackets or trousers and combines well with neutral accessories. It can be used with silvers or gold jewelry and brown or black shoes. For casual wear, consider incorporating ultramarine in accessories such as scarves, hats, or handbags to add a touch of color to a neutral outfit.