Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine

Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #030998, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It is located in the blue spectral region. This color derives its name from the pigment historically made from lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone. Lapis lazuli was mined primarily in Afghanistan, and 'ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea', reflecting the pigment's origin and trade routes to Europe. In color theory, Ultramarine is associated with feelings of tranquility, depth, and stability. It is often used to convey trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. It is considered beneficial to the mind and body. It slows human metabolism and produces a calming effect. Ultramarine is used to portray water and sky. As a color, it is quite versatile and finds applications across various fields.

The hex color #030998, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its extremely dark hue. Its low lightness value means that it offers insufficient contrast when paired with lighter colors, particularly white or pale yellows, for text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA standards. Ultramarine is highly unlikely to meet these ratios with lighter colors, making content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. For improved accessibility, it's crucial to use Ultramarine sparingly, perhaps as an accent color in larger graphical elements. When it is used with text, it should be paired with very light shades to ensure adequate contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine appropriate color combinations to meet accessibility requirements. Thoughtful color selection ensures inclusivity and usability for all users.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design

  In web design, Ultramarine (#030998) can be used to create a sense of sophistication and depth in website headers or navigation bars. However, due to its dark nature, it should be paired with contrasting text colors like white or light yellow to ensure readability. It can also be effectively used for background accents, graphical elements, or as a highlight color, provided sufficient contrast is maintained. Overuse of such a dark color can make a website feel heavy and less accessible, so it's best used strategically to draw attention to specific areas or create visual interest without compromising usability. In branding, Ultramarine can evoke feelings of trust and reliability.

• Fashion Design

  In the fashion industry, Ultramarine (#030998) can be incorporated into clothing designs to create a bold and elegant statement. It works well in evening wear, formal attire, or as an accent color in accessories like scarves or handbags. The deep blue hue can add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. This color is a popular choice for brands that wish to project a premium image. Pairing it with metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can enhance its luxurious appeal. However, it's important to balance the dark hue with lighter colors or textures to prevent the outfit from appearing too somber.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Ultramarine (#030998) can be used to create a dramatic and luxurious atmosphere. It is particularly suitable for accent walls, upholstery, or decorative elements such as cushions or vases. The deep blue hue can add depth and richness to a room, creating a sense of calm and sophistication. When using Ultramarine in interior design, it's important to balance it with lighter colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Pairing it with warm neutrals, such as beige or cream, can create a harmonious and inviting environment. Metallic accents, such as gold or brass, can also enhance its elegance.

Complementary color

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