Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine

Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #0A0B8B, is a deep blue pigment historically derived from the precious stone lapis lazuli. The name "ultramarine" literally means "beyond the sea," reflecting its origin from pigments imported into Europe from Asia. In color theory, Ultramarine is considered a primary color and is often associated with royalty, intelligence, and spirituality. This deep blue hue has been used for centuries in art, fashion, and design, prized for its rich and intense color. Modern ultramarine is typically produced synthetically, offering a more affordable and consistent alternative to the natural pigment. It remains a popular choice for artists and designers seeking a vibrant and evocative blue.

The hex color #0a0b8b, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its dark hue results in very low contrast against light backgrounds, making text and other elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Ultramarine often falls far short of these benchmarks when paired with common background colors like white or light gray. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter shades of blue or pairing Ultramarine with high-contrast colors like white or yellow for text and interactive elements. Providing alternative text descriptions for images and ensuring that interactive elements have sufficient visual cues are also crucial for enhancing usability for all users.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Website Headers and Footers

  Ultramarine can be used in website headers and footers to create a sense of depth and sophistication. Its rich, dark hue adds a touch of elegance, particularly when paired with clean, minimalist design elements. However, it is crucial to use sufficient contrast for text and interactive elements placed on an ultramarine background. White or light gray text works well, but avoid using darker colors that would reduce readability. Consider using Ultramarine as a background for call-to-action buttons to draw attention to them, but ensure the button text is highly legible.

• Branding in the Tech Industry

  Ultramarine is a popular choice for branding materials in the tech industry. Its association with intelligence and sophistication makes it a suitable color for logos, business cards, and website designs. Many tech companies use various shades of blue to convey trust, stability, and innovation. Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, helps brands establish a strong visual identity. In interface design, Ultramarine can be used for primary buttons and key interactive elements to guide users through the application or website. Ensure sufficient contrast with surrounding elements to maintain usability.

• Interior Design Accent

  In interior design, Ultramarine can be used as an accent color to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or living rooms, especially when paired with neutral tones like beige or gray. Ultramarine can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative elements such as cushions and curtains. To avoid overwhelming the space, use Ultramarine sparingly and balance it with lighter colors. The color can be incorporated with metallic tones such as gold and silver to create a feeling of luxury.

Complementary color

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