Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#051393)
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #051393, is a deep, vivid blue pigment that has been highly valued since antiquity. Originally derived from the precious stone lapis lazuli, its name literally means "beyond the sea," reflecting its historical importation to Europe from mines in Asia. In the realm of color theory, Ultramarine is considered a cool color, often associated with qualities like stability, trust, and intelligence. It is a popular choice in art, design, and branding, lending a sense of sophistication and depth to various applications. Chemically, modern Ultramarine is a complex sodium aluminosilicate with sulfur, giving it its characteristic blue hue. Its historical significance and aesthetic appeal have made it a beloved color across cultures and centuries.
The hex color #051393, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its extremely dark hue. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text (white or near-white) to achieve sufficient contrast for readability. 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, being a very dark shade of blue, often struggles to meet these ratios with moderately dark text colors. Developers must carefully select foreground text colors and thoroughly test the color combination with accessibility tools to ensure compliance. Furthermore, avoid using this color for interactive elements without clear visual cues, as users with visual impairments may struggle to identify them. It's crucial to provide alternative styling options or high-contrast modes to enhance usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web and App Design
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, lends itself beautifully to website headers and footers, providing a sophisticated and professional look. In branding, it can be utilized to evoke feelings of trust, security, and intelligence, making it suitable for businesses in the finance, technology, or education sectors. For mobile app development, it can serve as an accent color to highlight key features or as a background for loading screens. In interior design, Ultramarine can be incorporated into wall art, upholstery, or decorative accents to add a touch of elegance and drama to a space. When combined with lighter hues, it can create a visually striking and harmonious balance.
Fashion and Beauty
In the realm of fashion, Ultramarine serves as a powerful statement color. It can be used in evening gowns, suits, or accessories to create a bold and sophisticated look. As a makeup shade, it can be incorporated into eyeshadow palettes or eyeliners to add depth and intensity to the eyes. Ultramarine nail polish provides a sleek and modern finish. Moreover, it's frequently seen in athletic wear and swimwear, lending a sense of energy and dynamism. The color's versatility makes it a favorite for designers aiming to convey both confidence and timeless style.
Branding and Marketing
Ultramarine adds a touch of sophistication and depth when used in branding materials. It can be applied in logos, business cards, and marketing collateral to create a lasting impression. The color's association with intelligence and stability makes it an ideal choice for companies seeking to project credibility and trust. In print design, Ultramarine enhances the readability of text and imagery, especially when used as a background color for important information. For digital marketing campaigns, it can be used in call-to-action buttons to attract attention and drive conversions. Overall, Ultramarine effectively communicates a sense of professionalism and innovation.