Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#09158F)
The color #09158F, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep, rich shade of blue that falls within the blue-violet spectrum. Its hexadecimal representation signifies a low red component (09), a moderate green component (15), and a high blue component (8F), resulting in its distinctive deep blue appearance. Historically, ultramarine was derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments. This historical significance lends it an air of prestige and sophistication. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, retaining the beauty of the original pigment at a fraction of the cost. It is known for its excellent lightfastness and stability, making it a reliable choice for various applications.
The color #09158F, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value of approximately 1% means that it provides very little contrast against a standard white background. According to WCAG guidelines, this fails all levels of contrast ratio requirements (AA and AAA) for both normal and large text. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to use this color sparingly, especially for text or interactive elements. When using #09158F, pair it with very light colors, such as white (#FFFFFF) or very light grays, to achieve sufficient contrast. Alternatively, consider using a lighter shade of blue or a completely different color palette that offers better contrast ratios. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Luxury Branding
Ultramarine, with its inherent depth and richness, evokes a sense of sophistication and elegance, making it ideally suited for branding materials associated with luxury goods and high-end services. The color can be effectively used in logos, packaging design, and website layouts to convey trust, stability, and a premium feel. Furthermore, its association with intellect and authority makes it a favorable choice for educational institutions and organizations seeking to establish credibility. Using ultramarine sparingly as an accent color can also add a touch of refinement to corporate communications and presentations.
Web Design Accents
In web design, ultramarine can serve as a powerful accent color to draw attention to key elements such as call-to-action buttons, headings, and navigation menus. Its deep hue provides a strong visual anchor, guiding users through the website's content and improving overall user experience. However, it's essential to use ultramarine judiciously, as excessive use can overwhelm the user and detract from readability. Pairing it with lighter, complementary colors like white or light gray can create a balanced and visually appealing design. Furthermore, incorporating ultramarine into illustrations or background patterns can add depth and character to the website's aesthetic.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine brings a sense of tranquility and depth to any space. Its profound hue can be used to create a calming atmosphere in bedrooms or studies, promoting relaxation and concentration. As a statement color on walls or furniture, Ultramarine adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to living rooms or dining areas. It pairs well with neutral tones, such as white or gray, to create a balanced and harmonious environment. Accents in complementary colors, like gold or yellow, can add warmth and visual interest, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the interior design scheme.