Ultramarine
About Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #0E118A, is a deep blue pigment that has been prized since antiquity. Originally derived from the gemstone lapis lazuli, it was incredibly expensive and reserved for the most important commissions, such as depictions of the Virgin Mary in religious art. The name 'ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' referring to its origin from lands far east of Europe. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, making it more accessible. Its rich, intense hue continues to be valued in various applications, including paints, plastics, cosmetics, and textiles. The color is known for its excellent lightfastness and resistance to fading, ensuring its vibrancy over time.
The color #0E118A, a deep, saturated blue often referred to as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text (white or very light shades of yellow or green) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, ideally meeting WCAG AA standards. Conversely, as a text color, it needs to be paired with a very light background. The intensity of the blue can be overwhelming for large blocks of text, potentially causing eye strain. Therefore, it is advisable to use this color sparingly, focusing on visual elements like buttons, icons, or highlights rather than extensive textual content. Furthermore, always test the color combination with accessibility evaluation tools to confirm adequate contrast ratios for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Financial Website Design
Ultramarine is often associated with trust, security, and authority, making it an excellent choice for financial institutions or governmental websites. Its deep hue conveys a sense of stability and reliability, which can instill confidence in users interacting with the site. However, it is important to use the color judiciously and balance it with lighter, more open elements to avoid overwhelming the visitor. Employing it in key calls to action or navigation elements can guide users effectively and reinforce the brand's message of trustworthiness.
Beauty Products
In the beauty industry, Ultramarine can be used to create striking eyeshadow looks or as a bold eyeliner color. Its rich pigment can add depth and drama to the eyes, making them appear more intense and captivating. When used in packaging design, it can convey a sense of luxury and sophistication, appealing to consumers who seek high-end products. Paired with metallic accents like gold or silver, Ultramarine can enhance the perceived value of the product and create a visually appealing aesthetic.
Interior Design Accent Color
Ultramarine, with its captivating depth and association with the sea and sky, is an excellent choice for creating a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in interior design. It can be used as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom to add a touch of elegance and tranquility. When paired with neutral tones such as beige or gray, it can create a balanced and harmonious space. Furthermore, ultramarine can be incorporated into furniture upholstery or decorative accessories to add pops of color and visual interest to a room.