Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0A1193, is a deep blue pigment originally derived from the mineral lapis lazuli. Its name literally means 'beyond the sea,' reflecting its historical import from overseas. Revered for its intense and vibrant hue, Ultramarine has been prized since the Middle Ages and Renaissance, often reserved for depicting the robes of the Virgin Mary in religious paintings due to its rarity and expense. Today, synthetic Ultramarine is widely available, making it accessible for various applications. This color evokes feelings of serenity, depth, and sophistication. It is often associated with intelligence, stability, and trust, making it a popular choice in branding and design for companies seeking to project a sense of reliability and professionalism.
The color #0A1193, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it's crucial to select text colors that provide sufficient contrast to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. White or very light shades of yellow and green are generally good choices, as they offer a high contrast ratio against this dark blue. Conversely, avoid using dark text colors like black or dark grays, as the contrast would be insufficient, making the text difficult to read. Adhering to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for color contrast is essential to provide an inclusive user experience. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the chosen color combination meets the minimum contrast ratio requirements. In addition, avoid using color as the sole means of conveying information. Always provide alternative cues such as text labels or icons to ensure that information is accessible to all users, regardless of their visual abilities.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e298f
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers improved contrast with dark text.
- #2563eb
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements on a page.
- #000080
A navy blue that provide a more neutral background with good contrast with lighter colours.
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine is a natural fit for website designs aiming for a sophisticated and trustworthy aesthetic. Its depth evokes feelings of stability and confidence, making it ideal for corporate websites, financial institutions, and educational platforms. Use it sparingly as an accent color to highlight key calls to action or as a background for important sections. When combined with lighter shades or contrasting colors, it can create a visually appealing and engaging user interface that enhances the overall brand image and user experience.
Beauty and Cosmetics
In the beauty industry, Ultramarine can be incorporated into eyeshadows, eyeliners, and mascaras to create bold and dramatic looks. Its intense blue hue can enhance the natural eye color and add a touch of sophistication to any makeup style. Furthermore, packaging designs utilizing Ultramarine can convey a sense of luxury and quality, attracting customers seeking high-end beauty products. The color's versatility allows it to be used in both daytime and evening makeup, making it a popular choice among makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts alike.
Interior Design
Ultramarine can be used as an accent color for walls or furniture to create a focal point in a room. It pairs well with neutral colors such as white, gray, and beige, as well as metallic accents like gold and silver. Consider using it for a statement wall in a living room or bedroom to add depth and character to the space. Alternatively, incorporate it into decorative accessories such as cushions, curtains, or rugs to inject a pop of color and personality into a room.