Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #020496, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep and intense shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its high saturation and low brightness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.78% red, 1.57% green, and 58.82% blue. Ultramarine derives its name from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally made from lapis lazuli, a precious stone imported from faraway lands. Historically, ultramarine pigment was highly valued and expensive, often reserved for important works of art, especially paintings of the Virgin Mary. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, making it a more accessible and affordable color for various applications. Its rich, deep tone evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication.
The hex color #020496, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text applications. Its very low luminance value of 0.002 necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Due to its darkness, #020496 demands extremely light foreground colors to meet these standards. White (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of gray are practically mandatory to ensure readability. When used for interactive elements like buttons or links, sufficient visual cues beyond color alone are crucial to aid users who have color vision deficiencies. Thoughtful design practices, such as incorporating borders, icons, or text labels, can greatly improve the usability of content that utilizes this color. Furthermore, providing options for users to adjust color schemes can enhance accessibility for individuals with specific visual needs.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar tone but offers better contrast against dark backgrounds.
- #1e90ff
A vibrant blue that provides a more accessible option while still capturing a sense of depth.
- #0000ff
A classic blue hue that is universally recognized and easy to integrate into various designs.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #020496 can be employed sparingly for background accents or decorative elements to create a sense of depth and sophistication. However, it's crucial to pair it with light, contrasting colors for text and interactive elements to maintain readability and usability. Consider using it for subtle hover effects or as a secondary color in a larger palette, ensuring that primary elements are more accessible. Employing it thoughtfully can add a touch of elegance without compromising the user experience.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine (#020496) can be used to create a bold and dramatic statement. It works well in accent walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories. When using it in a room, balance it with lighter colors like white, cream, or light gray to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Metallic accents such as gold or silver can complement the richness of Ultramarine, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to the overall design.
Fashion Statement
In fashion, #020496 can be used for statement pieces or as an accent color in outfits. A dress or blazer in this hue can make a bold impression, while accessories like scarves or handbags can add a pop of color to a more neutral ensemble. Pair it with contrasting colors like yellow or orange for a vibrant look, or with classic neutrals like black, white, or gray for a more sophisticated and timeless style. The deep, rich tone of Ultramarine evokes a sense of confidence and style.