Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine (#030197)

The color #030197, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a dark shade of blue with a strong presence. It is a color that evokes feelings of depth, intelligence, and authority. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 1.18% red, 0.39% green, and 59.22% blue. This combination results in a color that is heavily weighted towards the blue end of the spectrum, giving it its characteristic deep blue appearance. Ultramarine has a rich history, originally derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli. The color's association with rarity and value has contributed to its continued appeal in art, design, and fashion. Modern production methods have made the pigment more accessible, but its connection to luxury remains.

The hex color #030197, a deep ultramarine, presents considerable accessibility challenges. Its extremely low lightness value makes it unsuitable for body text, as the contrast against a standard white background would be far below the WCAG guidelines. At a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This color fails to meet even the large text requirement. To improve accessibility, it should primarily be used for decorative elements or backgrounds when paired with very light text. When used as a link color, sufficient contrast must be provided in its hover, focus, and active states, which can be achieved by adjusting the color's lightness or hue. Careful consideration should be given to users with visual impairments; providing alternative visual cues or text equivalents alongside this color will significantly improve their experience. Avoid using this color as a primary element for conveying information without sufficient supporting visual elements with high contrast.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design Accents

  In web design, #030197 can serve as a striking accent color to highlight specific elements, like call-to-action buttons or navigational cues, especially on sites with a minimalist design. It's crucial to use this color sparingly and pair it with lighter shades to maintain readability and prevent eye strain. It can be effective in creating a sense of depth and sophistication, particularly for brands aiming for a premium or authoritative image. Careful consideration should be given to its use in data visualizations, ensuring sufficient contrast between the color and the data being represented.

• Fashion Design

  In fashion, #030197 can be a bold choice for evening wear or statement accessories. Its depth and richness evoke a sense of luxury and can be used to create a dramatic effect. Consider using it in velvet or silk fabrics to enhance its visual impact. When incorporating this color into an outfit, balance it with neutral tones to avoid overwhelming the overall look. It can also be used as an accent color in patterns or prints to add a touch of sophistication.

• Interior Design Accents

  In interior design, #030197 works well as an accent color in a modern or minimalist space. Use it on a feature wall, a statement piece of furniture, or in decorative accessories like throw pillows or artwork. Pair it with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige to create a balanced and sophisticated look. It can also be effective in creating a sense of depth in a room. Avoid using it in large quantities, especially in smaller spaces, as it can make the room feel darker and smaller.

Complementary color

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