Ultramarine
General Information
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #051096, is a deep blue color historically derived from the pigment lapis lazuli. This pigment was highly prized in ancient times and the Renaissance, making ultramarine one of the most expensive and sought-after colors for artists. Today, synthetic versions of ultramarine are widely available, making it accessible for various applications. The color is characterized by its intense and pure blue hue, often associated with depth, clarity, and sophistication. In color psychology, ultramarine can evoke feelings of calmness, trust, and stability. Its rich and saturated nature makes it suitable for both digital and print media, adding a touch of elegance and visual interest to designs.
The color #051096, Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low lightness value (very dark) means that text or interactive elements using this color as a background or foreground will require very light, contrasting colors to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Therefore, when using Ultramarine, ensure that adjacent colors are significantly lighter, such as shades of white, cream, or very light yellows. Without sufficient contrast, content may be unreadable for users with low vision or color blindness, and may also be difficult to read for users in brightly lit environments. Careful consideration is needed to provide an inclusive and accessible user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter blue that still evokes a sense of depth but offers better contrast when used with white text or other light elements. It is useful for creating a calming ambiance in design projects.
A dark indigo, providing a sophisticated and less intense alternative. Suitable for backgrounds or elements needing to convey stability and trustworthiness.
As a vibrant royal blue tone, this alternative delivers a pop of color while remaining versatile in use. Suited for highlighting key design elements and creating eye-catching focal points.
Applications
Cosmetic Packaging
Ultramarine, with its intense depth, is perfect for creating a sense of luxury and sophistication in cosmetic packaging. It can be used for boxes, bottles, and labels to convey a premium feel. Pairing it with gold or silver accents can further enhance this effect, making the product stand out on the shelf and attracting customers seeking high-quality beauty items. The rich blue color helps to associate the product with elegance and refinement.
Educational Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine is well-suited for creating a visually appealing and engaging interface for educational platforms. It can be used for headers, buttons, and navigation menus to provide a consistent and professional look. The deep blue color promotes a sense of trust and knowledge, making it ideal for online courses, e-learning platforms, and academic websites. It can be combined with lighter shades of blue or neutral colors to create a balanced and user-friendly design.
Fashion Design
Ultramarine can be used in fashion to create bold and sophisticated looks. This color works well in evening gowns, statement jackets, or accessories like scarves and handbags. The intensity of Ultramarine makes it a striking choice for formal wear, while its versatility allows it to be incorporated into more casual outfits as well. Pairing it with neutral tones or metallic accents can create a stylish and memorable impact.