Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine is a deep blue color that derives its name from the Latin "ultramarinus," meaning "beyond the sea," as it was originally imported from overseas. Historically, ultramarine was made from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments. During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, it was reserved for use in paintings of religious figures, particularly the Virgin Mary, due to its rarity and expense. In modern times, synthetic ultramarine, also known as French ultramarine, is produced, making it more accessible and widely used. The color is known for its rich, intense hue and excellent lightfastness. It is a popular choice in art, design, and various other applications where a deep, vibrant blue is desired.
The hex color #080098, a deep shade of ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value means text rendered in white or very light colors is essential to achieve sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. When using #080098 as a background, careful consideration must be given to the text color and size to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate and adjust color combinations to meet accessibility standards. Avoiding its use for crucial interactive elements, such as buttons or links, is advisable unless accompanied by strong visual cues beyond color alone, such as labels or icons. Furthermore, it's important to test color combinations with assistive technologies to ensure compatibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e90ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white text.
- #4682b4
A more muted blue that is easier on the eyes and still conveys a sense of sophistication.
- #4b0082
A dark purple that offers a similar visual impact but with potentially better contrast depending on the context.
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, can be effectively used in website headers and footers to create a strong visual anchor. It is well-suited for backgrounds in sections where key information or calls to action are highlighted. In UI design, it can be used to indicate selected states or primary actions, but always paired with accessible contrast ratios for text and icons. It evokes feelings of trust and authority, making it suitable for finance or technology-related websites. However, overuse can overwhelm users, so it should be balanced with lighter or neutral colors. Its sophisticated aura lends well to luxury brands and can be used for infographics to differentiate data segments effectively.
Fashion & Beauty
Ultramarine is a color often seen in high fashion, especially in evening wear and formal attire. Its deep, saturated tone brings an air of elegance and sophistication, making it a popular choice for designers creating bold and memorable pieces. In beauty, ultramarine pigments have historically been used in eyeshadows and eyeliners to add depth and vibrancy to eye makeup looks. Its ability to create a striking visual impact makes it a favorable choice for creating looks that stand out. It may also be found in nail polishes, offering a dramatic and alluring finish.
Interior Design
Ultramarine can be incorporated in interior design as an accent color to add a touch of drama and sophistication to a space. It works well in rooms with a minimalist design or as a statement wall in a living room. When paired with neutral colors like white, beige, or gray, it adds depth and richness without overwhelming the space. It's also suitable for upholstery, such as sofas or accent chairs, creating a focal point. Accessories like decorative pillows, artwork, or vases in ultramarine can tie a room together, providing contrast and visual interest.