Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine (#120098) is a deep, vivid blue color, often associated with royalty, the sea, and the night sky. Its name originates from the Latin 'ultramarinus', meaning 'beyond the sea', as the pigment was originally imported from overseas. Historically, genuine ultramarine pigment was derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive pigments available to artists. In modern times, synthetic ultramarine is produced, making it more accessible and affordable. Ultramarine blue is created synthetically through a process involving heating a mixture of clay, sodium carbonate, sulfur, and silica. The color is found in various applications, ranging from fine art to industrial uses, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal. Its association with depth and expansiveness makes it a popular choice in design and branding.
The color #120098, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value of 2 means that text rendered in this color on a white background, or vice versa, will likely fail WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements. Specifically, both WCAG 2.0 and 2.1 require a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Given its darkness, #120098 would necessitate extremely light foreground colors to meet these standards, which might not be aesthetically pleasing or align with the desired design. Designers should carefully consider using lighter tints or shades of ultramarine or pairing it with contrasting colors that provide sufficient luminance contrast. Tools like contrast checkers are essential to evaluate the accessibility of color combinations. Furthermore, consider providing alternative visual cues besides color to convey information, ensuring inclusivity for users with color vision deficiencies. It's crucial to prioritize accessibility to provide an inclusive experience for all users, ensuring that content is perceivable, operable, and understandable.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Headers and Navigation
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, can be a striking choice for website headers and navigation bars, particularly for sites aiming for a sophisticated or authoritative feel. When combined with lighter text or background elements, it creates a visually appealing contrast that draws the eye and emphasizes important information. Ensuring sufficient contrast with text is crucial for accessibility. Furthermore, Ultramarine can be used for interactive elements like buttons or links, creating visual cues for user interaction. Consider using it sparingly and strategically to enhance the overall user experience.
Interior Design Accent Color
In the realm of interior design, ultramarine makes for a captivating accent wall, adding a touch of drama and luxury to a room. It's a color that pairs well with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white, creating a balanced and harmonious space. Ultramarine can be introduced through textiles such as curtains, cushions, or rugs, to add pops of color and texture. In smaller doses, it can be used in artwork, vases, or other decorative items to create visual interest. Consider the lighting in the room when incorporating ultramarine, as it can appear darker in dimly lit spaces.
Eye Makeup
Ultramarine eyeshadow can add intensity and depth to eye makeup looks. It's particularly flattering on those with brown or hazel eyes, enhancing their natural color. Ultramarine eyeliner can also be used to create a bold and dramatic look. Because of its high pigment content, start with a small amount and blend well. The color can be used in other makeup applications, like for a bold graphic look, but it works best in more dramatic, artistic makeups.