Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #0e1a8d, is a deep blue color historically derived from the pigment of ground lapis lazuli stone. The name 'ultramarine' comes from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as the pigment was originally imported to Europe from Asia. In color theory, ultramarine is considered a primary color, forming a base for mixing a wide range of other hues. It is often associated with depth, stability, and sophistication. The color's rich tone has been used extensively throughout art history, prized for its vibrancy and permanence. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, offering the same hue at a more accessible cost, making it a popular choice across various applications.
The hex color #0e1a8d, a deep ultramarine, presents accessibility challenges due to its low luminance. When used as a foreground color, it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios against background colors to ensure readability, especially for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. To enhance accessibility, pairing #0e1a8d with light colors such as whites, creams, or very light yellows is advisable. Using darker background colors may make text and interface elements illegible. Developers should use contrast checking tools to verify compliance and prioritize inclusive design practices. Furthermore, provide alternative text descriptions for images and interactive elements that utilize this color to support screen reader users. When used for non-text elements, a contrast ratio of 3:1 with adjacent colors is advised.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains depth while improving contrast against darker backgrounds.
A more vibrant blue alternative that provides better visibility, especially on screens with lower color gamut.
A dark blue, almost indigo color. This color maintains the dark feel of ultramarine, but may be a better choice if you are looking for a more modern look.
Applications
Web and UI Design
Ultramarine (#0e1a8d) is ideal for creating a sophisticated and calming atmosphere in web design. It can be used for headers, navigation bars, and backgrounds to evoke trust and reliability. In user interface design, this color is suitable for highlighting primary actions and interactive elements, providing a clear visual cue to users. Its depth makes it an excellent choice for data visualization, where it can represent significant data points or trends. However, its use should be balanced with sufficient contrast to ensure readability and accessibility.
Beauty and Fashion
In the beauty industry, ultramarine is often associated with eyeshadows, eyeliners, and nail polishes. The color adds a touch of elegance and mystery to the makeup look. In fashion, ultramarine can be used for evening gowns, accessories, and statement pieces to make the wearer stand out. It can also be used for swimwear to create a calming, sea-inspired look. When using ultramarine in fashion or beauty, consider the undertones of the skin and pair it with complementary colors to create a harmonious balance.
Interior Design
In interior design, ultramarine is a powerful choice for accent walls, furniture upholstery, and decorative accessories. Its depth can add a sense of luxury and sophistication to a room, making it suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, and studies. When using ultramarine, it's important to balance it with lighter, neutral colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Incorporating metallic accents like gold or silver can also enhance the richness of the color and create a visually appealing contrast.