Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #041494, is a deep and intense shade of blue. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive pigments during the medieval and Renaissance periods. Its name literally means "beyond the sea," referring to its origin as a pigment imported into Europe from Asia. Today, synthetic versions of Ultramarine are widely available, offering the same vibrant color at a fraction of the cost. In color psychology, deep blues like Ultramarine are often associated with feelings of trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. It is considered beneficial to the mind and body, slowing human metabolism and producing a calming effect. Ultramarine is used extensively in various fields, including art, design, and printing, for its rich and stable color properties.
The color #041494, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its very dark hue. When used as a background color, it necessitates extremely light text (ideally white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Ultramarine's darkness means careful attention must be paid to achieve these ratios. In practical terms, it limits the range of foreground colors that can be effectively used. Conversely, as a text color, Ultramarine requires a very light background. Designers should use contrast checking tools to validate the color combinations for compliance. Overlooking contrast can exclude users with visual impairments, making content inaccessible. Appropriate use of ARIA attributes can also help improve accessibility by programmatically indicating the relationship between elements and providing additional context for assistive technologies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1424a4
Slightly lighter than Ultramarine, this alternative offers better contrast when used with darker text, improving readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #2434b4
A brighter shade of blue, this alternative is useful for highlighting elements and drawing attention without being too overwhelming.
- #000080
If you want a similar color but a litte more neutral, #000080 is a good option.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be used to create a sophisticated and trustworthy feel for financial or corporate websites. It works well for headers, navigation bars, and backgrounds, especially when paired with clean, white text and minimalist design elements. The deep blue evokes stability and professionalism, making it suitable for brands that want to project an image of reliability.
Eye Makeup
In the beauty industry, Ultramarine is a popular shade for eye makeup, particularly eyeshadow and eyeliner. Its rich, deep color can enhance the eyes and add a dramatic touch to any look. It is often used in smoky eye makeup or as a bold statement color for special occasions. The color complements a variety of skin tones and can be paired with other shades to create unique and eye-catching designs. It can also be used for nail polish, adding sophistication to the overall look.
Interior Accent Color
Ultramarine can serve as an accent wall color in interior design, bringing depth and a sense of calmness to a room. It complements neutral furniture and decor, creating a balanced and inviting space. This dark shade works well in bedrooms or living rooms, providing a relaxing ambiance. When used as an accent, Ultramarine adds a touch of luxury and elegance without overwhelming the overall design.