Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #041594, is a deep and rich shade of blue with historical significance. Derived from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' this pigment was originally made from ground lapis lazuli, a rare and expensive gemstone imported from Afghanistan. In the realm of color theory, Ultramarine is often associated with qualities such as depth, stability, and trustworthiness. Its intensity evokes feelings of serenity and composure. It is often linked to the ocean and the night sky. As a color with very little green and red influence, it is considered a very pure shade of blue. This makes the color very expressive and can be used to create a powerful and striking visual impact.
The color #041594, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it's essential to ensure that any foreground text or interactive elements have sufficient contrast to be easily readable. A general guideline is to aim for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text, as specified by WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines). Lighter colors such as white or bright yellow work best as foreground colors. Using this color for text on a white background would require very large text to meet accessibility standards. When incorporating #041594 into user interface elements such as buttons or links, thoughtful consideration is vital to ensure usability for individuals with visual impairments. Providing alternative visual cues, such as borders or icons, can further enhance accessibility. Tools like contrast checkers can help assess and improve color combinations.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design and Branding
Ultramarine (#041594) can serve as a striking accent color in web design, adding depth and visual interest to layouts. It's particularly effective for highlighting key elements such as call-to-action buttons, navigation menus, or section headings. In branding, this color can convey a sense of trustworthiness, stability, and sophistication, making it suitable for businesses in finance, technology, or education. In fashion, this deep blue works well in evening wear, adding an aura of mystery and elegance. When used sparingly, it can elevate the overall aesthetic of a website or brand identity. Additionally it can be used to create gradient effects.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be incorporated as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a focal point and adding depth to the space. It pairs well with neutral tones like white, gray, or beige, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. It can also be used in furniture upholstery or decorative accessories such as throw pillows, rugs, or artwork. Furthermore, Ultramarine can be incorporated in textiles such as carpets, bedsheets or curtains. This can create a nautical or coastal atmosphere.
Fashion and Beauty
Ultramarine blue makes a powerful impression when used for eye makeup. It can be applied as eyeliner for a striking contrast, or as eyeshadow to make eyes appear brighter. Ultramarine nail polish adds a touch of luxury to any outfit. For clothing, ultramarine is a beautiful and expressive option for dresses, skirts or sweaters. It conveys confidence and sophistication. It is also suitable for evening wear.