Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #0F0D8A, is a deep blue pigment derived from lapis lazuli. Historically, it was one of the most expensive and highly prized colors, often reserved for painting the robes of the Virgin Mary in religious art. The name "ultramarine" comes from the Latin "ultramarinus," meaning "beyond the sea," as the pigment was imported to Europe from mines in Afghanistan. In modern times, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, offering the same vibrant hue at a fraction of the cost. It is known for its excellent lightfastness and stability, making it a reliable choice for artists and designers alike. This color evokes feelings of calm, trust, and authority.
The color #0f0d8a, a deep ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations for web development. Its low luminance requires careful attention to contrast ratios. When used as text, it's crucial to pair it with a light background to ensure readability, adhering to WCAG guidelines for contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. If used for interactive elements like buttons or links, sufficient contrast is essential for users with visual impairments to perceive the interactive affordance. Avoid using this color for crucial information without providing alternative cues, such as icons or text labels, for users who may have difficulty distinguishing it due to color vision deficiencies. Careful consideration of colorblindness simulations can further enhance the inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against dark text, improving readability and overall accessibility for a wider range of users.
- #808080
A neutral gray that can be used for backgrounds or borders, offering a subtle contrast without overpowering other elements on the page.
- #4682b4
A vibrant royal blue, offering a brighter alternative while maintaining a sense of sophistication and depth, suitable for highlights and accents.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, ultramarine can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It's often used in headers, footers, and sidebars to provide visual anchors on a page. Because of its calming and trustworthy qualities, this color is used in the finance and health industry. It should be used sparingly as its darkness can overwhelm a design if overused. Its best for use in combination with lighter colors to create balance and avoid a heavy, somber feel. Consider using it for call-to-action buttons to make them stand out, ensuring sufficient contrast with the background.
Beauty
In the beauty industry, ultramarine is a popular color for eye makeup, such as eyeshadow and eyeliner, providing a bold and dramatic look. It can be used to create a smoky eye effect or add a pop of color to the eyes. The deep blue shade also has applications in nail polish, offering a luxurious and striking finish. It's often paired with metallic shades to enhance its vibrancy and create a sophisticated aesthetic. Furthermore, hair dyes are available in ultramarine shades for those seeking a bold and alternative hair color.
Fashion
Ultramarine is a bold choice for fashion, best suited for statement pieces or accents. A striking ultramarine dress can command attention, while accessories like scarves or jewelry can add a touch of elegance. This color pairs well with neutrals like white, gray, and black, as well as metallics such as gold and silver. For a bolder statement, consider color blocking with complementary colors like orange or yellow. Ultramarine also works well in patterned fabrics, adding depth and richness to the design, it is best used in formal wear to show elegance.