Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #051293, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep and intense shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its strong, saturated hue. In the RGB color model, #051293 consists of 2% red, 7.1% green, and 57.6% blue. This composition gives it a dominant blue appearance with subtle hints of red and green. Ultramarine is often associated with qualities like depth, stability, and sophistication. Historically, it was derived from the mineral lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized pigment. Today, it is synthetically produced and widely used in various applications, ranging from art and design to industrial purposes. It's a strong and recognizable color.
The hex color #051293, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its very low luminance value of 0.009 makes it difficult to read text when used as a foreground color against a white or light background. According to WCAG guidelines, this color fails all contrast ratio tests for normal text (4.5:1) and large text (3:1). To ensure accessibility, it is strongly recommended to avoid using #051293 for text or interactive elements. If this color is crucial for branding, consider pairing it with very light colors like #FFFFFF or #F0F0F0 to achieve an acceptable contrast ratio. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can assist in verifying contrast ratios and ensuring compliance with accessibility standards, creating a more inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1a237e
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #283593
A brighter blue that can be used for accents and highlights, offering improved visibility.
- #333333
A dark grey that pairs well with ultramarine in a website design and can be used in multiple places.
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, #051293 can be used sparingly for background accents or decorative elements. However, due to its dark nature, it's best to avoid using it for large areas or text. Instead, consider using it as a subtle highlight in a navigation bar or as a border color for a call-to-action button. Ensure that any text placed on this color has sufficient contrast to meet accessibility standards. For example, white text on a #051293 background requires careful consideration and testing. This color works effectively in combination with lighter shades of blue or neutral colors to create a balanced and visually appealing design. It's a great addition to a dark themed site.
Interior Design Accents
In interior design, Ultramarine (#051293) can be employed as an accent color to add depth and sophistication to a room. It works particularly well in spaces with natural light, where its richness can be fully appreciated. Consider using it on a feature wall or as a color for decorative accessories such as cushions, throws, or artwork. This color pairs beautifully with neutral tones like gray, beige, and white, creating a calming and elegant atmosphere. It can also be combined with metallic accents like gold or silver for a touch of luxury. Ultramarine is also a great alternative for a wall design or for furniture.
Fashion Accents
In fashion, #051293 can be incorporated into outfits to add a touch of elegance and mystery. It works well as a color for evening wear or formal attire, where its deep hue can make a statement. Consider using it in accessories such as scarves, handbags, or jewelry to add a pop of color to a more neutral ensemble. In cosmetic products it may be used for eyeshadow and nail polish. Ultramarine can be paired with other bold colors like red or yellow for a more adventurous look, or with classic neutrals like black or white for a timeless and sophisticated style. It’s also a great choice for formal office wear.