Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #10148B, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It derives its name from the historical pigment made from ground lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone. This pigment was highly valued for its intense color and was extensively used by Renaissance painters. In the RGB color model, #10148B is composed of 6.27% red, 7.84% green, and 54.51% blue. The color's intensity is primarily driven by the high blue component, resulting in its characteristic deep blue appearance. Ultramarine is often associated with qualities such as depth, stability, and sophistication, and can be used to evoke feelings of trust and authority.
The color #10148B, also known as Ultramarine, presents certain accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it's crucial to pair it with text that is sufficiently light to ensure readability. White and very light shades of yellow or green are preferable. Avoid using dark or similarly toned colors for text or interactive elements, as the contrast ratio would likely fall below the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) recommended levels. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for standard text and 3:1 for large text is recommended to ensure compliance with accessibility standards. When utilizing this color, consider providing alternative visual cues, such as icons or patterns, alongside color to ensure that users with visual impairments can still understand the information being presented. Proper testing with accessibility tools is essential to validate the color choices.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast when used with dark text.
A darker shade of blue, almost black, can be used for text that needs to be seen by people with low vision.
A neutral gray that serves as a safe and accessible background color for various text colors.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine (#10148B) can be utilized to create a sophisticated and professional atmosphere, particularly for websites related to finance, technology, or education. It can be incorporated into the header, navigation bar, or as an accent color to highlight important elements. The key is to balance the boldness of the color with sufficient white space and legible typography to prevent overwhelming the user. Further applications are possible as background for buttons or icons.
Fashion and Beauty
In fashion, Ultramarine offers a sense of depth and drama. It works exceptionally well in evening wear, statement pieces, or as a bold accent color in accessories. Ultramarine can be paired with neutral colors like gray, black, or white for a classic look, or contrasted with brighter colors like yellow or orange for a more adventurous style. The rich color can also translate into cosmetics, especially for eyeshadow and eyeliner, adding a touch of elegance and mystery to the overall appearance.
Interior Design
Ultramarine can be employed in interior design to create a focal point in a room or to add a touch of sophistication. It is especially effective in spaces where you want to evoke a sense of calm and tranquility. It can be used as an accent wall color, in upholstery for furniture, or in decorative accessories such as cushions and artwork. When used sparingly, Ultramarine can elevate the look and feel of a room without making it feel overpowering.