Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #12019A, is a deep blue pigment that has been valued since ancient times. The name "Ultramarine" literally means "beyond the sea," as it was originally imported into Europe from mines in Afghanistan. Historically, it was made from the gemstone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive pigments available. Today, synthetic versions of Ultramarine are widely produced, offering a more affordable alternative while retaining the color's distinctive depth and vibrancy. In color psychology, Ultramarine is often associated with traits like intelligence, trust, and authority. It is a popular choice for branding and design elements aiming to convey these qualities.
The color #12019A, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in text-based applications. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against lighter backgrounds, potentially making content difficult to read for individuals with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. To improve accessibility, it's recommended to pair Ultramarine with very light colors like white or pale yellow to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Avoid using it with mid-tone or dark colors. In interactive elements, consider providing alternative visual cues besides color, such as icons or text labels, to ensure usability for all users. Also, using a color contrast checker is highly recommended during the design process.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine, with its rich and deep tone, finds great use in web design for creating a sense of sophistication and trustworthiness. It can be used for primary brand colors, especially in industries like finance, technology, or consulting, where reliability is key. In UI design, it can be employed for navigation bars, headers, and button backgrounds to create a professional and appealing look. However, due to its darkness, it is important to use it sparingly, often in combination with lighter accent colors to maintain readability and visual balance. The color is also a good fit for dark mode themes.
Fashion and Beauty
Ultramarine, reminiscent of deep ocean waters, is often used in fashion to evoke a sense of elegance and formality. It can be used in evening gowns, suits, or formal wear to convey a sense of power and sophistication. As an accent color, it pairs well with neutrals like gray, black, and white, as well as metallics like gold or silver. Accessorizing with ultramarine can also add a touch of class to a more casual outfit. It is used often on jewelry, scarves or handbags. In the beauty sector, Ultramarine pigments are used in eyeshadows and eyeliners.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can serve as a bold accent color to create a focal point in a room. It works particularly well in spaces where a sense of calm and sophistication is desired, such as living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices. An ultramarine accent wall can add depth and character to a room, while ultramarine-colored furniture or decor can provide a pop of color against a neutral backdrop. When using ultramarine, it's important to balance it with lighter and warmer colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or cold. Lighting is also key to enhance its richness.