Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #06009B, is a deep, saturated blue color that evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. Historically, ultramarine was derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments during the Renaissance. Its name literally means 'beyond the sea,' reflecting its origin from stones imported into Europe from Asia. In modern color theory, ultramarine is considered a primary color in subtractive color models (CMYK), and it plays a vital role in color mixing and achieving accurate color reproduction. In digital design, understanding the RGB values (6, 0, 155) is crucial for ensuring consistency across different displays and devices. The color carries cultural significance, often associated with royalty, religious iconography, and artistic expression. Its intense hue can create a sense of drama or serenity depending on its application.
The hex color #06009b, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low luminance. When used as a background color, it demands very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Given the darkness of #06009b, achieving these ratios requires careful selection of text colors, leaning towards white or very light shades of yellow or green. It is crucial to test color combinations with accessibility tools to verify compliance. Moreover, avoid using this color for crucial UI elements like buttons or links without providing clear visual cues, such as borders or icons, to aid users with visual impairments. Considering alternative, lighter shades of blue or using color combinations that naturally offer higher contrast can improve the overall accessibility of a design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, ultramarine can be utilized as a background accent for headers or footers to establish a strong brand identity. The deep hue evokes feelings of trust and stability, suitable for businesses in finance or technology. However, it should be used sparingly and combined with lighter elements to maintain balance and readability. Consider implementing ultramarine as a hover effect for interactive elements to guide user engagement.
Fashion and Beauty
Within the beauty and fashion industry, ultramarine serves as a captivating color for eyeshadows, eyeliners, or nail polish. The rich pigment offers a bold, dramatic look, perfect for evening wear or special occasions. When selecting fabrics, ultramarine can create a statement piece. To prevent overwhelming the ensemble, it’s best paired with neutral tones like gray, beige, or white. Ultramarine can also be combined with gold or silver accessories to achieve a luxurious aesthetic.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, ultramarine can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a space. It can be used as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom to create a calming atmosphere. Pairing it with crisp white trim and natural wood elements can achieve a modern, balanced look. Ultramarine can also be introduced through textiles like throw pillows, curtains, or rugs to complement existing neutral furniture.