Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #05019A, is a deep, vivid shade of blue that evokes a sense of sophistication and depth. This color is historically significant, having been derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued pigment in art for centuries. In the RGB color model, Ultramarine is composed of 2% red, 0.4% green, and 60.4% blue. Its CMYK values are 99% cyan, 100% magenta, 0% yellow, and 39.6% black. Ultramarine's unique properties make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from fine art to digital design. It is often associated with qualities such as trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven.
The hex color #05019a, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its very dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against standard light backgrounds, making text or interactive elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. 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 typically fails to meet these standards when paired with white or light-colored backgrounds. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to use Ultramarine sparingly, especially for text. When it is necessary to use the color, it should always be paired with a very light color to ensure sufficient contrast. It's important to test the color combination with accessibility tools to verify compliance with WCAG standards and ensure readability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that still conveys depth but provides better contrast against light backgrounds.
A desaturated blue that offers a softer visual impact and improved readability when used as text.
A vibrant blue with a slight green tint that provides a more playful and accessible alternative.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Ultramarine, with its deep and rich tone, serves as an excellent choice for creating a sense of depth and sophistication in website headers. It can be used as a background color to make the website feel more premium and engaging. When combined with lighter text, it creates a visually appealing contrast that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Furthermore, in website footers, ultramarine can provide a grounding visual element, making the footer stand out while contributing to the overall balance and professionalism of the site design. Its use in headers and footers contributes to a unified and memorable user experience, ensuring that the design leaves a lasting impression.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, ultramarine can be used to create elegant and dramatic evening wear. A flowing gown in this deep shade of blue can evoke a sense of sophistication and luxury, perfect for formal events. Ultramarine also works exceptionally well as an accent color in everyday wear. A scarf, handbag, or pair of shoes in this hue can add a pop of color to an outfit, elevating it from simple to stylish. The versatility of ultramarine makes it a valuable asset in any wardrobe, allowing for both bold statements and subtle enhancements.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, ultramarine can be utilized to create a focal point in a room, such as an accent wall in a living room or bedroom, injecting a sense of depth and luxury into the space. When complemented by lighter, neutral colors, it can create a balanced and harmonious environment. Additionally, ultramarine can be used in smaller decorative elements like cushions, rugs, or artwork to add a subtle touch of sophistication. The careful integration of ultramarine can transform a room from ordinary to extraordinary, creating a space that is both inviting and visually stunning.