Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0D118E, is a deep, rich blue pigment originally derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli. Its name literally means "beyond the sea" because it was imported to Europe from Asia by sea during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Because of its origin, it was an expensive pigment, used by the Renaissance painters for only the most important figures in their paintings, especially for the robes of the Virgin Mary. The synthetic version of ultramarine is much more affordable today and is widely used in various applications, including paints, plastics, and cosmetics. Its unique hue results from the presence of polysulfide ions within the aluminosilicate lattice structure.
The color #0D118E, a deep shade of ultramarine, presents certain accessibility challenges, especially when used as a text color. Due to its low luminance value, it offers insufficient contrast against light backgrounds, potentially making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to pair #0D118E with a background color that provides a high contrast ratio, ideally exceeding the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) recommended contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using lighter shades of yellow, white, or even light grays as background colors can significantly improve readability. Additionally, when using #0D118E for interactive elements like buttons or links, providing sufficient visual cues, such as underlines or borders, can enhance usability for all users, including those with color vision deficiencies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter, more accessible shade of blue that still evokes a sense of depth and sophistication.
A dark gray-blue that offers a more neutral and versatile alternative, providing better contrast against light text.
A vibrant, attention-grabbing color that can be used as an accent to draw attention to specific elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, ultramarine can be employed to create a sense of depth and sophistication in website headers, navigation menus, or as an accent color to highlight important information. Its association with trust and stability makes it particularly suitable for websites in the finance, education, or healthcare sectors. However, it's important to use it sparingly and balance it with lighter, more neutral colors to avoid overwhelming the user. Additionally, ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements to maintain accessibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, ultramarine can serve as a bold accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative accessories. It can create a dramatic and luxurious atmosphere in living rooms, bedrooms, or even home offices. When using ultramarine in interior spaces, consider incorporating natural light and lighter neutral colors to balance the intensity of the blue and prevent the space from feeling too dark or enclosed. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can also complement ultramarine beautifully, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, ultramarine serves as a captivating hue for garments and accessories, exuding an air of sophistication and confidence. Its versatility allows for integration into both casual and formal ensembles, lending a touch of elegance to everyday wear or making a bold statement at special events. When incorporating ultramarine into fashion designs, it's essential to consider the interplay with other colors and textures to achieve a harmonious and visually appealing look.