Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0912AB, is a deep and intense shade of blue. Historically, ultramarine was derived from the rare and expensive mineral lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized pigment, especially during the Renaissance period for paintings and other artistic creations. Its rich and vibrant hue quickly made it a favorite among artists. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, retaining the color's characteristic depth and brilliance without the exorbitant cost. In color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, often associated with feelings of tranquility, stability, and wisdom. Its position on the color wheel places it between blue and violet, exhibiting qualities of both.
The color #0912AB, a deep ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations. Due to its low luminance, it requires careful pairing with contrasting colors to ensure readability, especially for text. A light text color, such as white or a pale yellow, is necessary to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. Using this color as a background for extensive text blocks may strain the eyes of some users. When using it for interactive elements like buttons or links, ensure sufficient size and clear visual cues, such as hover effects, to aid users with visual or motor impairments. Consider providing alternative themes or color choices to cater to users with specific visual needs, like those with color blindness or low vision. Thorough testing with accessibility tools is recommended to validate the color's usability across different user groups and platforms. The color should not be used as the sole indicator for important information or actions.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, lends itself beautifully to website headers and navigation bars, especially for sites aiming for a professional or sophisticated feel. It can serve as a striking background color, drawing the user's eye and establishing a strong brand identity. When paired with lighter text and well-chosen accent colors, it creates an engaging and user-friendly browsing experience. Furthermore, it can be incorporated into graphical elements such as icons and illustrations, adding depth and visual interest to the overall design. This deep blue can effectively communicate trust and stability, making it a great choice for businesses in finance, technology, or education.
Fashion Design
Ultramarine's regal quality makes it suitable for fashion design, especially for evening wear or statement pieces. As a bold color choice for garments such as dresses or suits, it can exude confidence and elegance. Moreover, it pairs well with both neutral colors like black and gray, as well as complementary hues like gold and orange, offering versatility in styling. In accessories, such as scarves or handbags, it can provide a pop of color and sophistication. From luxurious fabrics to everyday wear, ultramarine is a versatile choice that elevates any wardrobe.
Interior Design
Ultramarine can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. Use it as an accent wall color in a bedroom or living room to add depth and visual interest. Pair it with neutral furniture and decor to balance the boldness of the color. It can also be incorporated through accessories such as throw pillows, rugs, and artwork to add a touch of elegance. Consider using it in home offices to promote focus and productivity. Overall, ultramarine can be used effectively to enhance the aesthetic and mood of interior spaces.