Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0C08AC, is a deep, rich blue hue historically derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli. The name 'Ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' reflecting its origin as a pigment imported from distant lands. In the RGB color model, it consists of 4.7% red, 3.14% green, and 67.45% blue. It falls under the category of dark blue colors and evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. Due to its low brightness, it is generally not recommended as a primary background color for large blocks of text but can be highly effective as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements within a design. The color is often associated with trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven.
The color #0C08AC, also known as Ultramarine, presents accessibility challenges due to its dark hue. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. This color might not be suitable for users with low vision or color blindness if used improperly. Also, be cautious using it for essential UI elements; consider that some users could use assistive technologies that change color schemes. Always test color combinations using accessibility tools to verify compliance. If using this color for interactive elements, ensure sufficient visual cues beyond color alone are present to indicate state changes (e.g., hover, focus).
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine (#0C08AC) can be utilized for creating visually striking headers or calls to action, particularly when a bold and authoritative feel is desired. However, due to its low luminance, it should be paired thoughtfully with contrasting elements. It can also be effective for branding elements where the brand identity emphasizes sophistication and a sense of depth. For example, in the design of a financial technology website, Ultramarine can evoke trust and stability. Use it sparingly in dashboards or data visualization to highlight key metrics, and always ensure sufficient contrast with text and interactive elements to maintain accessibility.
Beauty and Fashion
In the realm of beauty and fashion, Ultramarine can be incorporated into eye shadow palettes or nail polish collections to offer a dramatic and intense pop of color. It resonates well with evening wear or special occasion makeup, providing a touch of mystery and elegance. Fashion designers might integrate it into garment designs, using it as an accent color for linings or embellishments to add a sense of luxury. The depth of the color makes it a versatile choice for highlighting specific areas, whether in makeup or clothing.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be employed as an accent color to introduce depth and sophistication to a space. It works well in creating feature walls or in the selection of upholstery for statement furniture pieces. However, due to its intense nature, it should be used judiciously to avoid overwhelming the room. Consider using it in combination with lighter, neutral tones to create a balanced and harmonious environment. Ultramarine can also be incorporated through artwork or decorative accessories like vases or cushions to add a pop of color without making drastic changes.