Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #11188A, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep and intense shade of blue. It falls within the blue color family and is characterized by its rich, almost majestic appearance. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the precious gemstone Lapis Lazuli, making it a highly valued pigment used by Renaissance painters. Today, it is synthetically produced, making it more accessible. In color psychology, blue is often associated with calmness, stability, trust, and intelligence. Ultramarine, in particular, can evoke feelings of depth, sophistication, and authority. Its hexadecimal code #11188A translates to RGB values of Red: 17, Green: 24, and Blue: 138, indicating a significant dominance of blue in its composition. The name 'Ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' a reference to its origin from overseas when it was imported into Europe during the Middle Ages.
The hex color #11188A, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, especially regarding text contrast. When used as a background color, it is crucial to select a foreground color that provides sufficient contrast to ensure readability. White or very light shades of yellow or green are typically good choices, offering the necessary contrast ratio as defined by WCAG guidelines. Conversely, using darker colors or shades too similar to Ultramarine as foreground text should be avoided, as it can make the text difficult or impossible to read for users, particularly those with visual impairments. It's recommended to use contrast checking tools to verify that color combinations meet accessibility standards, ensuring a positive user experience for everyone. Remember to consider the size and weight of the text, as smaller or lighter fonts may require even greater contrast.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Midnight Blue offers a similar deep blue aesthetic but with slightly better contrast when paired with lighter text, making it a more accessible alternative for UI elements and backgrounds.
Royal Blue provides a brighter, more vibrant blue that can stand out more effectively and offers better contrast against neutral backgrounds, making it suitable for call-to-action buttons and highlights.
Navy is a classic, dark blue that provides a professional and calming feel, and ensures great readability when combined with white text. This color is often used on websites and printed media.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be utilized to create a sophisticated and trustworthy atmosphere. It's suitable for header backgrounds, navigation bars, and accent elements on websites for financial institutions, educational platforms, or corporate sites wanting to convey stability and reliability. It can be combined with lighter shades of blue or white for a clean and modern look.
Beauty
In the beauty industry, Ultramarine is a popular choice for eye makeup, particularly eyeshadow and eyeliner. Its rich pigment adds depth and intensity to the eyes, making them appear more defined and captivating. It can be used to create smoky eye effects or as a bold statement color for a night out. The color complements a wide range of skin tones and eye colors, providing a versatile option for makeup enthusiasts.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can serve as a striking accent color. It can be used on feature walls, upholstery, or decorative accessories to add a pop of color to a room. It works well in both modern and traditional settings and can be combined with neutral tones such as gray, white, or beige to create a balanced and harmonious space. It's particularly effective in bedrooms or living rooms, creating a sense of calm and tranquility.