Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #050098, is a deep, intense shade of blue. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the rare and precious mineral lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued pigment, particularly in Renaissance paintings. Its name literally means 'beyond the sea,' referring to its origin from overseas sources. In the RGB color model, #050098 consists of 2% red, 0% green, and 60% blue. This high blue component is what gives Ultramarine its characteristic deep blue hue. In the CMYK color model, it comprises 95% cyan, 100% magenta, 0% yellow, and 62% black. This color is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality. Its usage in art and design can evoke feelings of depth, sophistication, and tranquility. However, due to its dark nature, it requires careful consideration when used in design to ensure adequate contrast and accessibility.
The hex color #050098, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its extremely dark hue results in very low contrast against standard light backgrounds, such as white (#FFFFFF). This fails to meet the minimum contrast ratios recommended by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for text and interactive elements. Specifically, WCAG 2.1 level AA requires a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text and user interface components. Using #050098 for text on a white background would not provide sufficient contrast, making it difficult for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, to read the content. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to pair #050098 with a much lighter color, aiming for a contrast ratio that meets or exceeds WCAG guidelines. Tools like contrast checkers can help designers ensure their color choices are accessible to all users. Alternatively, avoid using #050098 for text or important UI elements unless paired with a highly contrasting color to ensure readability and usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web and Graphic Design
Ultramarine (#050098) can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication in website designs. Its deep, rich tone is ideal for backgrounds, headers, and accents, especially in designs aiming for a luxurious or professional feel. However, due to its darkness, it's best paired with lighter, contrasting colors to ensure readability and accessibility. In graphic design, Ultramarine is effective for branding materials like logos and brochures, conveying trust and stability. It can be used sparingly to highlight key information or as a complementary color to brighter, more energetic hues. When used in conjunction with a well-chosen palette, Ultramarine can elevate the overall aesthetic and make a lasting impression.
Fashion and Interior Design
Ultramarine, with its intense and captivating hue, can be a stunning choice in fashion, especially for evening wear or statement pieces. Imagine a flowing gown in this color, exuding elegance and sophistication. It can also be incorporated as an accent color in accessories like scarves, handbags, or shoes to add a touch of boldness to an outfit. In interior design, Ultramarine can create a dramatic focal point when used as a wall color in a living room or bedroom. It pairs beautifully with metallic accents like gold or silver, enhancing the luxurious feel. Alternatively, it can be used in smaller doses, such as in throw pillows or artwork, to add depth and richness to a space without overwhelming it. Ultramarine brings a sense of royalty and depth, making it a versatile option in fashion and interior design.
User Interface (UI) Design
In user interface (UI) design, Ultramarine can be employed strategically to draw attention to specific elements or to establish a distinct brand identity. Buttons, icons, or navigation bars in this color can stand out, guiding users through the interface. Given its intensity, it's crucial to use it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user or creating visual clutter. Moreover, adhering to accessibility guidelines by ensuring sufficient contrast against background colors is paramount. A lighter tint or shade of Ultramarine might be more suitable for extensive use in UI, balancing visual appeal with usability. This approach ensures the UI is both aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly, enhancing the overall user experience.