Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0A0D8E, is a deep, rich blue pigment originally derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli. The name itself, derived from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' literally means 'beyond the sea,' reflecting its origin from regions beyond the European seas. Throughout history, ultramarine has been highly valued for its intense color and was often used in religious art, particularly during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, to depict the robes of the Virgin Mary. Due to its costly production, it was often reserved for the most important figures and elements in paintings. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, making the color more accessible for various applications in art, design, and industry. The color evokes feelings of depth, tranquility, and sophistication.
The color #0A0D8E, a deep ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of approximately 1% means that text rendered in this color on a white background, or vice versa, would likely fail WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for standard text and 3:1 for large text is recommended to ensure readability. To improve accessibility, consider pairing #0A0D8E with much lighter colors such as whites, yellows, or very light grays. Testing with accessibility evaluation tools is essential to validate color combinations. Using this color for decorative elements or larger graphical elements might be acceptable, but its use for crucial information or interactive components should be carefully evaluated and adjusted to meet accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, ultramarine can be utilized as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sophisticated and professional aesthetic. It can also be incorporated into button designs or call-to-action elements to draw the user's attention, provided that sufficient contrast is maintained with the text. For data visualizations, it can represent distinct categories or highlight key trends, contributing to a visually engaging and informative user experience. Its use in branding elements, such as logos and icons, can evoke feelings of trust, intelligence, and stability.
Interior Design
In interior design, ultramarine can serve as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative accessories, bringing a sense of depth and sophistication to a room. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige, creating a balanced and harmonious living space. The color can be used in textiles, such as curtains, rugs, or upholstery, to add visual interest and create a focal point. In smaller doses, it can be used for artwork or decorative objects to inject personality and character.
Fashion and Beauty
In fashion, ultramarine can be incorporated into clothing designs as a statement color for dresses, skirts, or tops, adding a touch of elegance and refinement. It can also be used as an accent color for accessories, such as scarves, handbags, or jewelry, to complement a more subdued outfit. In the realm of beauty, ultramarine eyeshadow or eyeliner can be used to create a bold and dramatic look, enhancing the eyes and adding a pop of color. It can be combined with other complementary colors to create unique looks.