Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #09118E, is a deep blue pigment known for its rich and intense color. It derives its name from the Latin 'ultramarinus', meaning 'beyond the sea', as the original pigment was imported from regions beyond the sea, primarily from Afghanistan. Historically, it was made by grinding lapis lazuli into a powder. Due to its labor-intensive production process and the rarity of lapis lazuli, ultramarine was a highly prized and expensive pigment, often reserved for the most important figures and elements in paintings, such as the robes of the Virgin Mary. Nowadays, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, offering the same vibrant color at a fraction of the cost.
The accessibility of #09118E (Ultramarine) for text depends heavily on the background color it's paired with. Due to its dark nature and low luminance, it requires very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text, and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can help verify compliance with WCAG guidelines. When using Ultramarine for interactive elements, ensure that hover, focus, and active states have distinct visual changes to aid users with visual impairments and those who rely on keyboard navigation. It's generally not advisable to use Ultramarine for large blocks of text, but it may work as a background color behind white text.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter, more accessible blue that still retains some of the depth of Ultramarine. Good for backgrounds where readability is a concern.
- #f0f8ff
A neutral color that pairs well with Ultramarine without competing for attention. It works for text or interface elements.
- #1e90ff
A vibrant, more saturated blue that offers a brighter alternative while staying within a similar color family. Useful for highlights and accents.
Applications
Web Design Accent
Ultramarine can serve as a powerful accent color in web design, particularly for buttons, links, or headings, drawing the user's eye to important interactive elements. Its sophisticated and elegant hue provides a sense of depth and professionalism, making it suitable for websites in the finance, technology, or education sectors. Combining Ultramarine with a clean, minimalist layout can create a visually appealing and engaging user experience, promoting clarity and usability. Using it sparingly can make it a powerful tool.
Interior Design Accent Wall
In interior design, Ultramarine is excellent for creating a focal point in a room, such as an accent wall or a statement piece of furniture. Its rich, saturated color evokes feelings of tranquility and sophistication, making it ideal for spaces intended for relaxation, such as bedrooms or living rooms. Paired with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white, Ultramarine can add a touch of drama and personality without overwhelming the space, creating a balanced and harmonious atmosphere.
Fashion Design
Ultramarine, with its deep and captivating hue, lends itself well to fashion design, particularly for evening wear or statement pieces. The intense pigment of the color makes it ideal for creating eye-catching designs that demand attention. From flowing gowns to tailored suits, Ultramarine can add a touch of sophistication and intrigue to any outfit. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to make a bold yet refined statement in their clothing. Its versatility allows it to be paired with a range of colors, from neutral tones to vibrant hues, opening up a world of creative possibilities.