Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #050492, is a deep, rich blue color known for its historical significance and association with luxury. Derived originally from the pigment made by grinding lapis lazuli, it was highly prized in Renaissance painting. The name 'ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' reflecting the origin of the pigment which was imported into Europe from mines in Asia. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, providing a more affordable and consistent color. In color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, evoking feelings of calmness and serenity. It is often used to represent stability, trust, and authority. Its deep hue makes it suitable for applications where a sense of depth and sophistication is desired.
The hex color #050492, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its dark nature results in very low contrast against standard light backgrounds, failing to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) requirements for readability. Specifically, the contrast ratio is far below the recommended 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. To ensure accessibility, it is imperative to pair this color with very light shades for text or graphical elements. Utilizing tools to check contrast ratios is essential. Additionally, consider providing alternative color schemes that offer better contrast for users with visual impairments. Be mindful of users with color blindness, and test color combinations to ensure that information is not lost due to color confusions. For improved accessibility, lighter tints of blues or analogous hues can be explored, but diligent contrast checking is always crucial.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability and accessibility.
- #4682b4
A more muted blue that offers a sophisticated look while maintaining sufficient contrast for most users.
- #add8e6
A bright, vibrant color that provides enough contrast against dark backgrounds
Applications
Interior Design Accent
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, is an excellent choice for creating a luxurious and sophisticated ambiance in interior design. It can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, paired with neutral tones to create a balanced and calming atmosphere. This color also works well in studies or home offices, promoting focus and concentration. Furthermore, ultramarine can be incorporated through accessories such as cushions, curtains, or rugs to add a touch of elegance and depth to a space.
Web Design Call-to-Action
In web design, Ultramarine can be used strategically to draw attention to key elements and create a sense of trust and reliability. It is suitable for headers, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons, providing a professional and authoritative feel. However, due to its low contrast on light backgrounds, it should be paired carefully with lighter text colors or used sparingly in larger design elements. Consider using it in combination with complementary colors to create visual interest and enhance the overall user experience.
Fashion and Beauty
Ultramarine offers a sense of elegance and sophistication to the wearer. It works as a fantastic color for evening gowns, suits and formal wear. In beauty, it can be used in eyeshadow to make brown eyes stand out. In accesories, it makes a statement, like an expensive watch or bag.