Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hex color #00129b, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep and intense shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0% red, 7.1% green, and 60.8% blue. This composition gives it a strong and commanding presence. Ultramarine derives its name from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally made from lapis lazuli imported from faraway lands. Historically, it was a highly prized pigment used in Renaissance paintings, often reserved for depicting the robes of the Virgin Mary due to its rarity and cost. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, making it an accessible and versatile color for various applications in design, art, and technology. Its rich and captivating nature makes it suitable for creating depth, drama, and a sense of sophistication.
The hex color #00129b, a deep shade of blue also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for text and interactive elements. Its very low luminance value means that it requires extremely light foreground colors to achieve sufficient contrast ratios as defined by WCAG guidelines. Using white text on this background generally meets the minimum contrast ratio for normal text (4.5:1), but may not meet the enhanced contrast ratio (7:1) recommended for users with low vision or other visual impairments. Therefore, it's crucial to meticulously test color combinations using accessibility evaluation tools. When employing #00129b, avoid pairing it with mid-tone colors, and ensure interactive elements have clear visual cues beyond color alone to aid users with color vision deficiencies. Consider providing alternative high-contrast themes to accommodate users with diverse visual needs, ensuring an inclusive digital experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Development
In web development, Ultramarine (#00129b) can serve as a powerful background color for headers or sidebars, creating a strong visual impact. Given its depth, it's best used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user. When incorporated, ensure sufficient contrast with foreground elements such as text and icons. Ultramarine can also be used to highlight specific sections or call-to-action buttons, drawing the user's attention to critical areas of the page. However, always prioritize accessibility by verifying color contrast ratios and providing alternative color schemes to accommodate users with visual impairments. Furthermore, consider using Ultramarine in conjunction with lighter shades of blue or complementary colors to create a balanced and visually appealing design.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine evokes feelings of tranquility and depth, making it suitable for accent walls in bedrooms or studies. When painting an entire room, it can create a dramatic and immersive environment. To balance the intensity, incorporate lighter-colored furniture and accessories, such as white or cream sofas, natural wood elements, and metallic accents. Ultramarine also complements textures like velvet and silk, adding a luxurious touch to the space. Consider using it in smaller doses for decorative items like vases, cushions, or artwork to add pops of color without overwhelming the space. Always consider the natural light available in the room, as Ultramarine can appear darker in poorly lit spaces.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be a striking choice for evening wear or statement pieces. A dress in this color exudes sophistication and elegance, while accessories like scarves or handbags add a touch of boldness to an outfit. It pairs well with neutral colors such as black, white, and gray, as well as metallic tones like silver and gold. Ultramarine can also be incorporated into casual wear through denim or knitwear, providing a refreshing alternative to traditional blues. When wearing Ultramarine, consider your skin tone and hair color to ensure it complements your overall look. Deeper shades of blue tend to work well for those with cool undertones.