Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine

Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0C019A, is a deep, rich shade of blue that evokes feelings of tranquility, depth, and sophistication. Historically, ultramarine was derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments of the Renaissance. Its name, meaning "beyond the sea" in Latin, reflects its origin, as lapis lazuli was primarily sourced from Afghanistan and transported to Europe by sea. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, but the color retains its association with artistry and luxury. In color psychology, ultramarine is often linked to intelligence, trust, and authority. It is frequently used in branding and design to convey stability, reliability, and knowledge, making it a popular choice for organizations seeking to project an image of competence and expertise.

The color #0C019A, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its dark hue results in low contrast when paired with lighter text, which can make content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast ratios are crucial for readability. For normal text (14 points or larger), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended, while for large text (18 points or larger), a ratio of 3:1 is considered acceptable. When using #0C019A for backgrounds or text, it is essential to choose a contrasting color carefully to meet these standards. Light yellows, greens, or even very light grays could be considered for text color to enhance readability against the dark ultramarine background. Testing with accessibility tools is highly recommended to ensure compliance and provide a better user experience.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design

  In web design, Ultramarine (#0C019A) can be used to create a sophisticated and trustworthy feel for websites, particularly those in the finance or technology sectors. It's often employed in navigation bars, headers, or as an accent color to draw attention to key elements. When used sparingly and combined with lighter complementary colors, it can establish a professional and reliable brand identity. However, it's important to consider accessibility guidelines to ensure readability, such as using high-contrast text colors. Ultramarine evokes a sense of depth, knowledge, and stability, making it ideal for organizations aiming to project an image of expertise and dependability.

• Fashion Design

  Ultramarine is a classic and timeless color that is used for creating a sense of sophistication and depth. For evening wear, a dark ultramarine gown can be stunning, especially when paired with silver or gold accessories. In casual wear, accents like scarves, hats, or sweaters in Ultramarine can add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral outfit. This color works especially well for garments made of velvet, silk, or wool, as the richness of the fabric enhances the depth of the color. The color should be carefully used, so it is not overpowering.

• Interior Design

  Ultramarine, with its deep and serene hue, is a compelling choice for interior design, especially when aiming to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works exceptionally well in bedrooms or studies where a sense of tranquility is desired. As an accent wall color, it can add depth and drama to a room, while lighter shades of blue can complement it in the form of textiles, artwork, or decorative items. Ultramarine pairs beautifully with metallic accents like gold or brass, as well as natural materials such as wood and stone, bringing a touch of elegance and earthiness to the space.

Complementary color

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