Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine

Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0D0398, is a deep and vibrant blue with a rich history. The term "ultramarine" originates from the Latin "ultramarinus," meaning "beyond the sea," as the pigment was originally imported from mines in Afghanistan by sea to Europe. Historically, it was derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments used by Renaissance artists. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, offering the same brilliant hue at a more affordable price. In color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, evoking feelings of serenity, depth, and sophistication. It is often associated with qualities like trust, loyalty, and wisdom.

The color #0D0398, a deep Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text, it requires a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended to ensure usability for individuals with visual impairments. If using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links, sufficient contrast is crucial. Consider pairing it with colors like #FFFFFF or #F0F0F0 to achieve adequate contrast. Avoid using it with dark or similarly saturated colors, as this will make the text difficult to read. Testing with accessibility tools is highly recommended to validate the color combinations. Also, remember to consider users with color vision deficiencies when selecting your color palette.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design Accents

  In web design, Ultramarine can serve as a striking accent color to draw attention to key elements or highlight specific sections of a webpage. Its depth and richness make it suitable for creating a sense of luxury and sophistication. For instance, it can be used for headers, call-to-action buttons, or background accents, especially when aiming for a modern and professional aesthetic. However, it's crucial to balance its intensity by pairing it with neutral colors like white, gray, or light beige to ensure readability and prevent visual fatigue. It is less applicable for large-scale designs.

• Interior Design Accents

  In interior design, Ultramarine can be employed to add a touch of drama and elegance to a space. It works well as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom, creating a focal point that exudes sophistication. It can also be incorporated through furniture pieces such as sofas, armchairs, or decorative cushions to inject a pop of color into a neutral setting. Ultramarine pairs beautifully with metallic accents like gold or silver, as well as natural materials like wood and stone. Be mindful of lighting to truly capture the essence of this color.

• Fashion Design

  In the fashion industry, Ultramarine can be used as a bold and eye-catching color for clothing items or accessories. A dress or suit in this hue makes a strong statement, conveying confidence and style. Ultramarine accessories such as handbags, shoes, or scarves can add a pop of color to a neutral outfit. It's especially effective in evening wear or formal attire, where its richness and depth can create a sense of opulence. The color is best used for people with a darker skin tone.

Complementary color

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