Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine

Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #061692, is a deep, rich blue color historically derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli. The name "Ultramarine" literally means "beyond the sea," reflecting its origin as a pigment imported from overseas during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Its use was initially reserved for the most important commissions, such as the robes of the Virgin Mary in religious paintings, due to its high cost and rarity. Today, synthetic versions of Ultramarine provide an affordable alternative while maintaining its vibrant hue. This color evokes feelings of calmness, trust, and authority, making it a popular choice in various design applications, from corporate branding to web design. Its association with the sea and sky further contributes to its appeal and versatility.

The color #061692, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its very dark hue. When used as a background color, it requires extremely light foreground text to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Given Ultramarine's darkness, achieving this contrast may necessitate using nearly white text. Conversely, if used as a text color, the background must be exceptionally light to ensure readability. Designers should carefully consider these factors and use color contrast tools to verify compliance. Avoid pairing Ultramarine with mid-tone colors, as the resulting contrast will likely be insufficient for users with visual impairments. Thoughtful application is essential to provide an inclusive user experience.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design and Branding

  Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, serves as an excellent choice for website headers and footers, providing a sense of sophistication and professionalism. In branding, it can convey trust and stability, making it suitable for financial institutions or technology companies aiming to project reliability. When applied to interactive elements like buttons, ensure sufficient contrast with text to maintain accessibility. Furthermore, Ultramarine can be effective in data visualizations, setting it apart from lighter hues, particularly in charts and graphs where clear differentiation is paramount. This color can create a strong and lasting impression, particularly when used thoughtfully and strategically.

• Fashion, Interior Design, and Beauty

  In fashion, Ultramarine adds a touch of elegance and can be used in evening wear or formal attire. It complements neutral colors such as grey, beige, and white, creating a sophisticated and timeless look. For interior design, Ultramarine can be incorporated as an accent wall color to bring depth to a room or used in upholstery for a touch of luxury. In the beauty industry, Ultramarine is a popular choice for eye makeup, such as eyeshadow or eyeliner, to enhance eye color and create a striking effect. The color's versatility makes it a valuable asset in various creative fields.

• Data visualization

  In the field of data visualization, Ultramarine can be employed to highlight key data points or categories within charts and graphs. Its distinct hue allows for clear differentiation, especially when juxtaposed against lighter or more neutral color palettes. Moreover, this deep blue shade can be used to create visually appealing and informative infographics, conveying complex information in an accessible manner. Consider using Ultramarine to represent significant trends or patterns, thereby enhancing the overall clarity and impact of the visual representation.

Complementary color

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