Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine

Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #030898, is a deep and rich shade of blue. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the rare and expensive mineral lapis lazuli, making it highly valued in art and decoration. The name 'Ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' referring to its origin from overseas sources. In modern color theory, Ultramarine is classified as a cool color, associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and intelligence. It's often used to evoke a sense of trust and authority, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and website design. Its high saturation can be visually striking, but it requires careful consideration when used in large quantities, as it can also appear overwhelming. Due to its dark nature, it is very important to use it with highly contrasting colors when used as background or for text.

The hex color #030898, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely dark hue results in very low contrast against standard light backgrounds like white (#FFFFFF). This low contrast makes text and other visual elements difficult to read for users, particularly those with visual impairments such as low vision or color blindness. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to pair #030898 with very light colors that provide a contrast ratio meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Therefore, using a very light yellow (#FF0) or white (#FFFFFF) for text on a #030898 background, or vice versa, would be essential. It is equally important to avoid using this color in scenarios where color is the sole indicator of meaning, as this excludes users with color vision deficiencies. Consider providing redundant cues, such as text labels or icons, to convey information effectively to all users. Proper attention to color contrast and alternative cues will improve the usability of designs incorporating #030898.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Website Headers and Footers

  Ultramarine (#030898) can be used in website headers or footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It is important to pair it with white or light-colored text and interactive elements to ensure sufficient contrast. Navigation menus, particularly those that remain fixed during scrolling, can benefit from this color as it provides a clear visual separation between the main content and the navigation area. However, overuse in large blocks of text should be avoided due to readability concerns. The color is best suited for accent elements and graphical components rather than extensive textual content.

• Fashion and Apparel

  In the realm of fashion, Ultramarine can be incorporated in evening wear or formal attire to exude elegance and sophistication. Accessories such as scarves, handbags, or jewelry in this color can add a pop of color to neutral outfits. Because of its depth, ultramarine is often seen as a luxurious and timeless choice. Combining Ultramarine with metallics like gold or silver can further enhance its appeal, creating a striking and glamorous look. However, when using Ultramarine in large quantities, it's crucial to balance it with lighter or contrasting colors to avoid overwhelming the overall aesthetic.

• Interior Design Accent

  Ultramarine (#030898) in interior design serves best as an accent color. Imagine throw pillows, artwork, or a statement wall to evoke a feeling of calm and depth. Its best to use it sparingly, against lighter backgrounds to avoid making a room feel small. Use it with natural elements, such as wooden floors, or furniture, to achieve a luxurious, yet grounded feel. A touch of ultramarine can transform a space. The color is also frequently seen in office spaces to improve the mood of a room without causing distraction.

Complementary color

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