Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0C098F, is a deep, rich blue color. Derived from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' it historically referred to the pigment made from lapis lazuli imported from Asia. Lapis lazuli is a semi-precious stone known for its intense blue color. Natural ultramarine is one of the most expensive pigments ever made. During the Renaissance, it was highly prized by artists and was often reserved for depicting the robes of the Virgin Mary. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, offering the same vibrant color at a much lower cost. The color #0C098F has a red value of 12, a green value of 9, and a blue value of 143. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 4.71% red, 3.53% green, and 56.08% blue.
The color #0C098F, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of 0.029 makes it a very dark color. When used as a text color against a white background, it fails all WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) compliance levels (AAA, AA, and A) because the contrast ratio is only 2.42:1, far below the minimum requirement of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. To improve accessibility, consider using a much lighter color for the background or using #0C098F as a background color with a very light text color like white or light gray. Tools like contrast checkers can help ensure compliance with accessibility standards, fostering inclusive design practices.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability.
- #1e90ff
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to key elements on a website.
- #191970
Midnight Blue is a dark shade of blue and is a good alternative if you want a dark, but more neutral color.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It is particularly suitable for websites related to finance, technology, or education, where trust and reliability are essential. It can be used for headers, footers, or as an accent color to highlight important elements. However, due to its dark nature, it should be paired with lighter colors to ensure readability and accessibility.
Beauty and Cosmetics
Ultramarine is a popular color in the beauty industry, often used in eyeshadows, eyeliners, and nail polishes. Its deep blue hue can create a dramatic and alluring look. It is often associated with sophistication and elegance, making it a favorite choice for evening wear and special occasions. When used in makeup, it can enhance the natural color of the eyes and create a striking contrast with skin tones.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to add a touch of luxury and sophistication to a space. It works well in bedrooms, living rooms, and studies, creating a calming and relaxing atmosphere. It can be used as an accent color on walls, furniture, or accessories. When paired with lighter colors like white or beige, it can create a balanced and harmonious look. Ultramarine is also a popular choice for nautical-themed interiors.