Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine (#081493)

Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #081493, is a deep and intense shade of blue. It is named after the pigment originally derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli. In the RGB color model, #081493 is composed of 3.14% red, 7.84% green, and 57.65% blue. This significant presence of blue gives ultramarine its distinctive, saturated hue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 95% cyan, 85% magenta, 0% yellow, and 42% black. The color is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality. Historically, ultramarine was highly valued and expensive due to the laborious process of extracting it from lapis lazuli. Nowadays, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, making it more accessible for various applications, including art, design, and manufacturing. Its strong blue tone makes it a popular choice for creating depth and visual interest.

The color #081493, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low lightness value (very dark) means that it requires very light text (ideally white or a very pale yellow) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This dark blue will likely fail these ratios with many common text colors. When using this color for backgrounds, web developers must meticulously test contrast ratios with foreground text. Using online contrast checkers is highly recommended. Additionally, avoid using this color to convey crucial information without any other visual cues, as users with low vision may struggle to differentiate it from black or other dark shades. Consider using icons or labels in addition to color to ensure accessibility for all users. For users with cognitive disabilities, be mindful of the color's intensity, as it might be overstimulating for some. Adequate spacing and clear typography can help improve the overall accessibility.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design

  In web design, ultramarine can be used as a background color for headers or banners to create a sophisticated and professional look. However, careful consideration must be given to text color choices to ensure sufficient contrast. White or light yellow text can work well against this dark background. Additionally, it can be used for subtle accents or call-to-action buttons, provided the contrast meets accessibility standards. It's also suitable for data visualization, representing specific categories or data points in charts and graphs, making sure that legends and labels are easily readable. Due to its intensity, use sparingly and strategically to avoid overwhelming the user.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, ultramarine can be applied as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a sense of depth and tranquility. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. The color can also be incorporated through furniture upholstery, decorative pillows, or artwork, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. However, it's best to balance the intensity of the color with ample natural light and lighter-colored elements to prevent the space from feeling too dark or closed in.

• Fashion

  In fashion, ultramarine can be used in evening wear or formal attire to create a bold and striking statement. It works well for dresses, suits, or accessories like scarves and jewelry. The color can be paired with other jewel tones like emerald green or ruby red for a luxurious look, or with neutral colors for a more understated effect. It can also be incorporated into casual wear through denim, sweaters, or t-shirts, adding a touch of sophistication to everyday outfits. However, the depth of the hue is best when used in smaller amounts, such as in patterns or smaller accessories.

Complementary color

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