Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #020599, is a deep blue color historically derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli. This pigment was highly valued and often reserved for important commissions, such as the robes of the Virgin Mary in religious paintings. In modern times, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, offering the same vibrant hue at a fraction of the cost. The color is characterized by its strong, saturated blue tone with a slight violet undertone. It sits firmly in the blue portion of the color spectrum and evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. Ultramarine is used across various industries, including art, textiles, and cosmetics, prized for its intense and lasting color.
The hex color #020599, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its very dark hue results in extremely low contrast against light backgrounds, making text or interactive elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for ensuring readability and usability. To improve accessibility, consider using #020599 sparingly, especially for large blocks of text. When using it for text or interactive elements, pair it with very light colors like white or very pale yellow to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Avoid using it as a background color with dark text, as this exacerbates readability issues. Additionally, providing alternative visual cues, such as icons or labels, can help users distinguish elements and navigate content more effectively. Testing with accessibility tools and user feedback is essential to ensure that content is usable for everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade of blue that maintains a blue tone but offers better contrast against light backgrounds.
- #343a40
A more neutral dark color that provides better readability when used with light text.
- #f8f9fa
A light gray color, which offers excellent contrast with darker text, is often used for backgrounds to improve readability.
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine, with its rich and deep hue, can be employed in website headers and footers to create a sense of sophistication and professionalism. It can also be used for call-to-action buttons to draw attention, but with a contrasting text color to ensure readability. Backgrounds for infographics can also benefit from this color, making data points stand out when paired with lighter shades. However, avoid using it for large blocks of text due to potential readability issues.
Beauty & Cosmetics
In the realm of beauty, Ultramarine can be utilized to create stunning eye makeup looks, especially for evening wear. It can be applied as an eyeshadow to add depth and intensity to the eyes. Moreover, it can serve as an accent color in nail art designs, providing a bold and dramatic touch. The color also works effectively as a hair dye, especially for creating highlights or ombre effects on darker hair.
Interior Design
Ultramarine can be incorporated into interior design as an accent color to bring a sense of luxury and depth to a room. It can be used for painting a feature wall in a living room or bedroom, creating a focal point. In furniture, it can be applied to upholstery, such as sofas or chairs, adding a touch of elegance. Decorative items like vases, cushions, and artwork can also feature this color to complement the overall aesthetic.