Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #10178B, is a deep, vibrant blue hue. It derives its name from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally imported from overseas, particularly from Afghanistan, where the precious mineral lapis lazuli was mined. This mineral was ground to create the pigment, making Ultramarine one of the most expensive and highly prized colors during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Historically, it was favored by artists for painting the robes of the Virgin Mary and other important figures, symbolizing holiness and royalty. Its chemical composition primarily consists of a complex sodium aluminum silicate with sulfur, giving it its distinctive color.
The color #10178B, Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against light backgrounds like white. This can make text difficult to read for users with visual impairments. To improve accessibility, it's recommended to use Ultramarine with very light text colors such as white (#FFFFFF) or very bright yellows. Additionally, using larger font sizes or adding a text shadow can enhance readability. In design, consider using this color sparingly for decorative elements rather than essential information. When using Ultramarine as a background, ensure that all interactive elements have clear visual cues and sufficient contrast to be easily identifiable. Providing alternative color schemes for users who require them can also improve accessibility and inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against both light and dark backgrounds, making it more versatile for text and UI elements.
A more neutral blue that works well in various design contexts and offers good readability for text.
A vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color and provides a brighter alternative while maintaining a similar tone.
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine, with its rich and deep blue tone, brings a sense of sophistication and depth to web design. It's suitable for website backgrounds, call-to-action buttons, and headings, especially for sites aiming to convey trust and reliability, such as financial institutions or educational platforms. Using Ultramarine for interactive elements can draw user attention effectively, creating a visually appealing and engaging experience.
Beauty and Cosmetics
In the beauty industry, Ultramarine is a striking choice for eyeshadows, eyeliners, and nail polishes. Its intense pigmentation creates dramatic looks, making it ideal for evening wear or special occasions. This color evokes a sense of elegance and can be incorporated into makeup palettes for creating bold and captivating styles. It also lends itself well to packaging designs, adding a luxurious touch to beauty products.
Interior Design
Ultramarine can be used to create serene and elegant interior spaces. Consider using it as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom to bring depth and tranquility to the space. It pairs well with neutral tones like gray, beige, and white, creating a balanced and sophisticated ambiance. Incorporating Ultramarine through textiles, such as cushions, curtains, or rugs, can add a pop of color and visual interest to a room.