Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #051496, is a deep and intense shade of blue. It is named after the pigment originally derived from lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone. Historically, ultramarine was highly valued and expensive, making it a pigment reserved for important commissions, like the painting of the Virgin Mary's robes. In modern color theory, Ultramarine is considered a cool color, often associated with traits like calmness, depth, and stability. In digital applications, it can evoke feelings of trust and security. However, its darkness means it should be used thoughtfully to ensure readability and accessibility, especially in text or interface elements. Understanding its historical significance and psychological associations helps in effectively using Ultramarine in various design contexts.
The hex color #051496, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its very dark hue results in low contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text and 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 standard text and 3:1 for large text. Ultramarine often fails to meet these standards when paired with common background colors like white or light gray. To improve accessibility, consider using a much lighter color for text or interactive elements on an Ultramarine background. Alternatively, use Ultramarine sparingly, limiting its use to purely decorative elements where readability is not crucial. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate and improve the accessibility of color combinations.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Ultramarine, with its deep and rich tone, is ideally suited for creating a sense of sophistication and depth in website headers and footers. Its inherent formality makes it a good choice for professional websites in law, finance, or higher education. The color can be used to establish a sense of trust and competence. To keep your design modern, use ultramarine sparingly and balanced with lighter colors and white space. Also, this colour is useful for creating a button, but the colour of the text must be white or a light gray for better reading.
Accent Walls and Interior Design
Ultramarine's intensity makes it a suitable color for accent walls in interior design, particularly in studies or libraries where a sense of focus is desired. When paired with lighter furniture and wooden accents, it can create an elegant and calming environment. The colour also works well to make a room darker to facilitate sleep. In fashion it can also be used with light colors.
Eye shadow and nail polish
Ultramarine can be used as a base for eye shadow in beauty applications. Combining this colour with dark and bright shades for different effects. This color may also be useful as a nail polish to make the hands more interesting.