Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#051593)
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #051593, is a deep, rich blue hue. It derives its name from the pigment originally made from lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone mined in Afghanistan. Historically, ultramarine was highly prized and expensive, reserved for important artworks. Synthetic ultramarine was developed in the 19th century, making it more accessible. In the RGB color model, #051593 is composed of 2% red, 8.2% green, and 57.6% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 99% cyan, 86% magenta, 0% yellow, and 42% black. Ultramarine's deep tone evokes feelings of tranquility and sophistication, making it suitable for various applications, though careful consideration must be given to accessibility due to its low luminance.
The color #051593, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its extremely low luminance value means that text rendered in this color requires a very light foreground color to achieve sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is necessary for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using #051593 for text on a white background, or with insufficiently light backgrounds, will likely fail these criteria, making content difficult or impossible for users with visual impairments to read. Designers should carefully consider color contrast and provide options for users to adjust color schemes as needed to ensure accessibility. Furthermore, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of interactive elements or important information, as users with color blindness may not be able to distinguish it.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e3a8a
A slightly lighter shade of blue that still retains a sense of depth and sophistication while offering better contrast against light backgrounds.
- #3b82f6
A brighter, more vibrant blue that provides greater visibility and can be used to draw attention to key elements.
- #1e3a8a
A muted navy that is a good substitute with better readability on white backgrounds.
Applications
Web Design Accent
Ultramarine (#051593) can be used as an accent color in website designs to create a sense of sophistication and trust. It's best suited for backgrounds or as a highlight for specific elements, paired with lighter text for readability. It should not dominate the design, but be used thoughtfully to guide the user's eye and reinforce branding.
Interior Design Accent Wall
In interior design, Ultramarine can be employed to create a bold statement wall in a living room or bedroom. It pairs well with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white to balance the intensity of the blue. The color creates an atmosphere of calm and serenity, making it well suited for these relaxing spaces. Accessorize with metallic or natural wood tones to further enhance the effect.
Fashion - Evening Wear
In the realm of fashion, ultramarine can add a touch of elegance to evening wear or formal attire. A dress or suit in this hue makes a sophisticated statement. When used as an accent color, such as in accessories like scarves or handbags, it can add depth to a more neutral outfit. Coordinate with silver or gold jewelry to create a stunning visual impact.