Ultramarine
General Information About Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #060E95, is a deep blue color with historical roots tracing back to the use of lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone. In the past, extracting Ultramarine pigment from lapis lazuli was a complex and costly process, making it a highly valued color among artists. During the Renaissance, Ultramarine was often reserved for painting the robes of important figures, such as the Virgin Mary, due to its expense and symbolic significance. The color's name, Ultramarine, literally means 'beyond the sea,' reflecting its origin from stones imported into Europe from distant lands. Today, synthetic versions of Ultramarine are widely available, making the color more accessible for various applications. The color is used across art, design, and manufacturing.
The hex color #060E95, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely dark hue results in very low contrast against lighter backgrounds, which is a common default. This low contrast can make text or interactive elements difficult to read or discern for users with visual impairments, color blindness, or even those viewing the content in brightly lit environments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast ratios are crucial for ensuring content is accessible. For text, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using Ultramarine, designers must carefully select a foreground color that provides adequate contrast to meet these standards. Light shades of yellow or white are possibilities but must be tested rigorously. Also, avoid using this color for crucial interactive elements without clear visual cues, as users may struggle to identify them.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, making it more accessible for users with visual impairments.
A more vibrant blue that can be used to create eye-catching designs while still maintaining a reasonable level of accessibility.
A deep indigo color that provides a sophisticated look and feel, suitable for backgrounds or accents.
Applications
Web Design and Branding
In web design, Ultramarine can be employed sparingly as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements such as buttons or links. However, it should be used cautiously, avoiding large blocks of text or crucial interactive elements, as its dark nature can hinder readability. For branding, Ultramarine can convey a sense of trustworthiness and stability. Companies in the finance or technology sectors may find it suitable to represent their brand identity. In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It is often paired with lighter colors to balance the depth and prevent the space from feeling too dark. Consider using it for accent walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories.
Fine Art and Fashion
Ultramarine, with its historical significance in fine art, can be used in digital art to evoke a sense of classicism and sophistication. Its deep blue hue is ideal for creating depth and shadow in paintings, illustrations, and digital compositions. In fashion, Ultramarine can be incorporated into clothing and accessories to add a touch of elegance and luxury. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and black, as well as metallics like gold and silver. For beauty applications, Ultramarine can be used in eye shadows, eyeliners, and mascaras to create dramatic and captivating looks. Its intense pigment provides excellent color payoff, making it a popular choice for special occasions and editorial makeup.
Manufacturing and Cleaning Products
Ultramarine, rooted in historical pigment production with lapis lazuli, finds modern applications in various manufacturing processes. Its rich hue is utilized in pigment production for plastics, coatings, and inks. These materials are employed in various industries such as automotive, packaging and construction. Ultramarine serves as a colorant in the production of high-quality artist paints, pastels, and colored pencils. Its stability and vibrant color make it a favorite among artists for creating lasting works of art. Ultramarine is used in some laundry detergents and cleaning products to act as a bluing agent, counteracting any yellowing or discoloration of fabrics and surfaces. This helps to maintain the brightness and whiteness of materials over time.