Ultramarine

About Ultramarine

Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #110A8E, is a deep blue pigment originally derived from the mineral lapis lazuli. Its name comes from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as the pigment was imported into Europe from mines in Asia. Historically, it was one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments, often reserved for important artistic commissions, such as depictions of the Virgin Mary. Chemically, modern Ultramarine is a complex sodium aluminosilicate with sulfur. It is known for its intense color, lightfastness, and stability, making it a valuable pigment in various applications. Today, synthetic Ultramarine is widely available and used in paints, plastics, cosmetics, and other materials. It is still prized for its rich blue hue and its ability to create depth and dimension in artistic and design projects.

The color #110A8E, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text applications. Its dark hue results in low contrast against lighter backgrounds, potentially making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast ratios are crucial for ensuring readability. For text, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Ultramarine may fail to meet these standards when paired with common background colors like white or light gray. To improve accessibility, consider using Ultramarine sparingly for decorative elements or pairing it with a much lighter color for text, ensuring the contrast ratio meets accessibility requirements. Tools are available online to check contrast ratios and assess the accessibility of color combinations. Providing alternative high-contrast themes also enhances usability for all users.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design

  In web design, Ultramarine can be used as a primary color for creating a sophisticated and trustworthy brand image. It is suitable for backgrounds, headings, and accents, especially when paired with lighter complementary colors to ensure readability. The deep blue hue evokes feelings of stability and professionalism, making it ideal for corporate websites and financial institutions. However, careful consideration should be given to the contrast ratio when using it for text to comply with accessibility guidelines. Use of a lighter color for text on a Ultramarine background is recommended.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a calming and elegant atmosphere in bedrooms, living rooms, or studies. It is often paired with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige to balance its intensity and create a sense of harmony. Ultramarine can be used as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative items, adding a touch of sophistication and depth to the space. It evokes feelings of tranquility and can promote relaxation, making it suitable for creating a serene environment.

• Cosmetic Packaging

  Ultramarine, with its intense depth, serves as an excellent choice for cosmetic packaging where luxury and sophistication are paramount. Think eye shadow palettes, mascara tubes, or even as an accent color on lipstick cases. It conveys a sense of high-end quality and can attract consumers seeking premium products. Additionally, within the cosmetics themselves, highly diluted and carefully formulated versions of this pigment family can contribute to creating unique shades of eye shadow or nail polish, offering depth and intrigue to the final color.

Complementary color

Buttons