Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #030798, also known as Ultramarine, is a dark shade of blue. It falls under the blue color family and is characterized by its deep, rich hue. Ultramarine has historical significance, originating from the pigment derived from the gemstone lapis lazuli. This pigment was highly valued, and was often used in Renaissance paintings. The name "Ultramarine" literally means "beyond the sea," referring to its origin from across the sea. Modern ultramarine is now synthetically produced, making it more accessible. The color is often associated with royalty, intelligence, and stability. In color psychology, it can evoke feelings of trust, loyalty, and confidence. It is often used in corporate branding to convey a sense of professionalism and reliability.
The hex color #030798, a deep ultramarine, presents accessibility challenges. Its low lightness value (approximately 3%) results in very poor contrast against a standard white background. This severely impacts readability for users, especially those with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio is far below the minimum recommended level of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. To improve accessibility, consider using a much lighter text color, such as white or a very light gray, against the #030798 background. Alternatively, use #030798 sparingly, reserving it for decorative elements rather than essential text or interactive components. Ensure that any elements using this color are paired with sufficient visual cues to convey their meaning and purpose. Providing alternative color schemes or a user-adjustable contrast setting can further enhance accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine, with its regal and sophisticated feel, is often used in website headers and footers to create a sense of stability and trust. It can also be employed for background accents, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons. However, due to its dark nature, it's crucial to pair it with contrasting text colors (such as white or yellow) and ample spacing to ensure readability and avoid overwhelming the user. It should be tested on different screen sizes and resolutions.
Fashion Design
In fashion, ultramarine evokes feelings of elegance and confidence. It can be utilized in evening gowns, tailored suits, or as an accent color in accessories like scarves or handbags. When paired with gold or silver accents, ultramarine creates a luxurious and sophisticated look. For more casual outfits, it can be combined with denim or neutral tones to create a balanced and stylish ensemble. It is particularly flattering on individuals with cool undertones.
Interior Design
Ultramarine, when incorporated into interior design, brings a sense of depth and tranquility to a space. It can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a focal point and adding visual interest. Furthermore, ultramarine can serve as an accent color in smaller doses in furniture or decor. It can work beautifully in combination with white, gray or beige walls to create a dramatic effect.