Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#060398)
The hex color #060398, commonly referred to as Ultramarine, is a dark and intense shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its deep and rich pigment. In the RGB color model, #060398 consists of 2.4% red, 1.2% green, and 59.6% blue. This significant presence of blue gives it its characteristic deep hue. The color is often associated with qualities such as depth, stability, and sophistication. In color psychology, blue is often linked to trustworthiness, intelligence, and calm. Historically, ultramarine pigment was derived from the gemstone lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized and expensive color used primarily in fine art. Today, synthetic ultramarine is readily available and widely used in various applications.
The hex color #060398, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low luminance value of approximately 0.004 necessitates careful consideration of color contrast. When used as text against a white background, it fails WCAG's AAA and AA standards. To ensure accessibility, pair this color with very light hues like whites (#FFFFFF), very light grays (#F0F0F0), or even some pale yellows to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Avoid using it for crucial interactive elements without proper contrast, as it can render them invisible to many users. Non-text elements also require a minimum contrast ratio of 3:1 against adjacent colors. For purely decorative elements, contrast requirements may be relaxed, but it's still advisable to maintain reasonable visibility for optimal user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design and Branding
Ultramarine, like #060398, embodies a sense of depth and sophistication, making it ideal for creating a luxurious and high-end feel in website designs. Its use in headers and footers can impart a sense of importance and stability. In branding, this color is suitable for companies wanting to project an image of trustworthiness and expertise, commonly found in finance or technology sectors. For UI design, use it sparingly for accents and highlights to draw attention without overwhelming the user.
Beauty and Cosmetics
In the realm of beauty, deep blues like ultramarine can be incorporated into eyeshadow palettes to create dramatic and smoky eye looks. Nail polish in similar shades offers a bold and striking statement. Blue pigments can also be used to deepen the tones of other colors, offering beauty formulators new blending possibilities. The deep hue is often associated with elegance and boldness, making it a popular choice for evening wear and special occasions. It can be used as eyeliner to make light eyes pop.
Interior Design
Ultramarine is a striking color that can bring depth and richness to interior spaces. Consider using it as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a focal point. It pairs well with neutral tones like gray, beige, and white, allowing the blue to stand out without being overwhelming. In furniture, an ultramarine sofa or armchair can add a touch of elegance to any room. Incorporate this color in accessories such as pillows, curtains, and rugs to tie the room together.