Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #100794, is a deep blue color known for its rich and intense hue. Historically, it was derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive pigments used in Renaissance painting. The name 'ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' referring to its origin as a pigment imported from overseas. Modern ultramarine is synthetically produced, making it more accessible and affordable. It is valued for its non-toxic properties and excellent lightfastness. Its chemical composition typically includes sodium aluminosilicate with small amounts of sulfur, which gives it its characteristic blue color. This color evokes feelings of tranquility, depth, and sophistication.
The color #100794, a deep ultramarine, presents certain accessibility challenges, particularly in text applications. Its low luminance of 3.6 cd/m² necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios to ensure readability. When used as a text color, it demands a light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Insufficient contrast can hinder users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, from perceiving content effectively. Therefore, designers must prioritize sufficient contrast and provide alternative color schemes or adjustments to accommodate diverse user needs and ensure inclusive access to information.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design for Tech Companies
Ultramarine (#100794) can be used as a primary color in website designs for technology companies, evoking feelings of trust, security, and innovation. It can be paired with lighter shades of blue or white to create a clean and professional look. Furthermore, it's suitable for interactive elements, backgrounds, and data visualization, enhancing user experience through a calm, reliable interface. The depth of ultramarine also makes it a strong choice for highlighting critical information and calls to action, ensuring important elements stand out.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, ultramarine can be used as an accent color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well with neutral colors like gray, beige, or white, adding a pop of color without being overwhelming. Use it for cushions, throws, or wall art to achieve a balanced and aesthetically pleasing space. Moreover, it is a great choice for a feature wall in a home office to inspire creativity and focus.
Fashion and Beauty
In fashion, ultramarine can be used as a base color for dresses, suits, or pants. It can be paired with white or beige for a classic and elegant look, or with brighter colors like yellow or red for a more daring and avant-garde look. In the beauty space, ultramarine can be used in eyeshadows, eyeliners, and mascaras, and it is commonly used in nail polish colors. It can be worn on its own or blended with other colors to create a unique and personalized look.