Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine (#060296)
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #060296, is a deep, saturated blue color reminiscent of the precious pigment derived from lapis lazuli. Historically, ultramarine pigment was highly valued and expensive, making it a color associated with royalty and important works of art. In modern color theory, ultramarine is often used to evoke feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. The color is created by specific ratios of red, green and blue light. #060296 is composed of 2.4% red, 0.8% green and 58.8% blue. In the RGB (red, green, blue) color space, it is commonly used in digital displays and web design. Its unique hue makes it a popular choice for creating visually appealing designs, though its darkness requires careful consideration of contrast and accessibility when used in text or interface elements.
The color #060296, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely dark hue results in very low contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text and interactive elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast ratios are essential for ensuring readability. To improve accessibility, it is strongly recommended to pair this color with very light colors, such as white or very pale yellows. Using larger font sizes and bolder text weights can also mitigate some of the contrast issues. Avoid using #060296 for critical interface elements or important information without careful consideration of contrast ratios. When incorporating this color into designs, prioritize accessibility by conducting thorough contrast checks using online tools or accessibility evaluation software. Ensure compliance with WCAG standards to provide an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability and accessibility.
- #1e90ff
A vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color without overwhelming the design or causing contrast issues.
- #000080
A deep blue that maintains some of the richness of Ultramarine while offering slightly better contrast than #060296.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Ultramarine (#060296) can be employed sparingly as a background for headers or decorative elements to evoke a sense of sophistication and depth. Due to its low contrast, it should not be used for body text or interactive components. Instead, consider using it for non-essential graphical elements to add visual interest without sacrificing usability. For example, it can be used in website footers, or within a company logo. To ensure accessibility, always pair it with high-contrast text and elements. Careful consideration of its impact on user experience is paramount in a good website design.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine (#060296) can serve as a dramatic accent color in spaces intended to evoke a sense of calm and sophistication, such as home libraries or studies. It can be used on walls, in artwork, or for select furniture pieces. This deep blue works best in well-lit rooms or when paired with lighter, contrasting colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. When used in fabrics, such as velvet or silk, Ultramarine can add a touch of luxury and depth. Balance is important, so use ultramarine as an accent instead of the main color.
Cosmetics
In the beauty industry, Ultramarine (#060296) can be used in cosmetics, particularly in eyeshadows and eyeliners, to create a bold and dramatic look. This deep blue shade can enhance eye color and add a sense of mystery and sophistication. It is particularly effective when used in smoky eye looks or as a statement eyeliner. When formulating cosmetics with Ultramarine, it is essential to ensure the pigment is skin-safe and does not cause irritation. It is a color that can be matched well with other dark and/or bright colors to give off a radiant shine.