Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #020B91, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep and intense shade of blue. It sits within the blue color family, possessing a rich and vibrant quality. Historically, ultramarine pigment was derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued and expensive pigment, especially during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Its name originates from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as the pigment was imported to Europe from Asia. Today, ultramarine is synthetically produced, making it more accessible and affordable. This color is often associated with royalty, trust, and wisdom, evoking a sense of depth and sophistication.
The hex color #020B91, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color for text. Its extremely low luminance makes it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to perceive text clearly. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast between text and background is crucial. For small text (less than 18pt), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended, while for large text (18pt or larger), a ratio of 3:1 is required. Ultramarine falls far short of these recommendations when paired with standard light-colored text like white. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter shade of blue or pairing it with a very light or bright contrasting color for text. Avoid using it as a primary background color for large blocks of text. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the color combination meets accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white text, enhancing readability and accessibility for a wider range of users.
A more muted blue tone that still offers a sense of depth but is easier on the eyes when used extensively in user interfaces.
A brighter, vibrant blue that adds energy while remaining relatively accessible for interactive elements and accents.
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication in website designs, particularly for header backgrounds and call-to-action buttons. Its association with trust and authority makes it suitable for financial or corporate websites aiming to project stability and credibility. However, it should be used sparingly and with careful consideration of contrast to ensure readability and accessibility. Consider pairing it with lighter shades of blue or complementary colors like yellow for visual balance.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be incorporated as an accent color to add a pop of vibrancy to a room. It works well in small doses, such as in decorative pillows, artwork, or a feature wall. When used in larger quantities, it can create a bold and dramatic effect. Given its intensity, it's often balanced with neutral tones like white, gray, or beige to prevent the space from feeling overwhelming. It is suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, and studies where a touch of sophistication is desired.
Fashion
Ultramarine, while bold, can be used in fashion as an accent color in accessories like scarves, handbags, or shoes. It can also be featured prominently in evening wear, creating a dramatic and elegant look. When incorporating Ultramarine into an outfit, it's important to consider the overall color palette and choose complementary colors or neutrals to create a balanced ensemble. For everyday wear, it can be paired with denim or khaki for a more casual yet stylish effect.