Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #0e0992, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep, rich blue hue that evokes feelings of sophistication, depth, and tranquility. Its name originates from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' referring to the pigment's origin, which was imported from Asia. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments used by Renaissance artists. Its chemical composition primarily consists of sodium aluminosilicate with trace amounts of sulfur, giving it its distinctive blue color. In the RGB color model, #0e0992 is composed of 5.5% red, 3.5% green, and 57.3% blue. Its use in art and design communicates a sense of elegance and timelessness.
The hex color #0e0992, also known as Ultramarine, presents accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color for text. Its dark hue requires very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, adhering to WCAG guidelines. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Insufficient contrast can cause eye strain and make content inaccessible to users with visual impairments. When using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links, it's essential to provide clear visual cues for focus states, such as outlines or changes in background color upon hover or selection, to aid users who navigate with keyboards or other assistive technologies. Thoughtful design considerations are needed to mitigate these potential accessibility barriers.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains the richness of Ultramarine while offering better contrast with darker text.
A more desaturated blue that provides a softer, less intense alternative, suitable for backgrounds where subtlety is desired.
A vibrant and lighter blue, good for accecnts.
Applications
Corporate Branding
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, is excellent for creating a sense of sophistication and trust in branding. It can be used in logos, website headers, and marketing materials to convey stability and professionalism. It pairs well with lighter colors like white, cream, or gold to create a visually appealing contrast. In user interfaces, it is effective for primary buttons or key navigation elements, guiding users through the desired actions with a touch of elegance.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used as an accent color to add a touch of luxury and depth to a space. It works well in living rooms, bedrooms, or studies, especially when paired with neutral tones. Use it for cushions, curtains, or even an accent wall to create a focal point. The color can be used to bring a sense of calmness and sophistication to the room, making it an ideal color for those seeking a more calming retreat.
Graphic Design and Digital Art
Ultramarine, inspired by the pigment derived from lapis lazuli, is deeply rooted in art history. It has been used by artists for centuries to depict the sky, water, and majestic figures. In modern graphic design, this color evokes a sense of classic beauty and artistic flair, making it suitable for projects aiming to convey sophistication and cultural richness. Digital artists can use this color to create compelling compositions.