Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #080C93, is a deep, rich blue pigment historically derived from the precious stone lapis lazuli. Its name literally means 'beyond the sea,' reflecting its origins as a pigment imported into Europe from across the sea, primarily from mines in Afghanistan. In the realm of color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, evoking feelings of calmness, serenity, and sophistication. It is often associated with royalty, intellect, and spirituality. The color's high saturation and depth make it visually striking, but it can also appear somber in certain contexts. In modern usage, synthetic ultramarine pigments are widely available, offering a more affordable alternative to the original, natural pigment. This deep blue hue remains a popular choice in art, design, and various other applications, valued for its timeless appeal and visual impact.
The color #080C93, a deep shade of ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its very low lightness value means that text rendered in this color on a white background, or vice versa, would likely fail WCAG contrast ratio guidelines. To ensure readability for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, it is crucial to use this color with lighter shades. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. Alternatives include pairing this color with a light yellow, beige, or even a very pale blue. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance with accessibility standards and assist in choosing suitable color combinations to enhance the user experience. Employing this color requires careful consideration of its impact on readability and overall accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
Ultramarine, such as #080C93, can be used as an accent color in website designs, particularly for headers, buttons, and navigation menus. Its depth and richness evoke feelings of trust and stability, making it suitable for businesses in the finance or technology sectors. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with lighter colors to ensure readability and accessibility. For example, white or light yellow text on an ultramarine background can create a striking visual contrast. In user interfaces, ultramarine can also be used to highlight active elements or to indicate important information, guiding the user's attention to key areas of the page. This color would also work well in a gradient.
Interior Design
In interior design, ultramarine can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It's often used as a wall color in bedrooms or studies, providing a sense of tranquility and focus. When paired with neutral colors like white or gray, it adds a touch of elegance without overwhelming the space. Ultramarine can also be used in furniture or accessories, such as sofas, cushions, or artwork, to add pops of color and visual interest. However, it's important to balance the darkness of ultramarine with sufficient lighting and brighter accents to prevent the room from feeling too somber. The color can be paired with gold and silver.
Fashion and Beauty
Ultramarine is a classic and versatile color that can be used in many ways. Use it as an eyeshadow, eyeliner, in clothing, or even as a dye for your hair! The color can be paired with many different colors, but looks its best with lighter colors to contrast the dark hue. Darker colors can also be paired with ultramarine, but ensure the balance of light and dark are equal so one color does not take away from the other. Be sure to carefully consider what image you want to portray, as the dark and cold hue can be percieved differently!