Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine

Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #120497, is a deep blue color known for its rich and intense hue. It derives its name from the Latin 'ultramarinus', meaning 'beyond the sea', as it was originally imported from mines in Asia. Historically, ultramarine was made from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive pigments during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Its vibrant and lasting color made it highly sought after by artists for painting religious icons, royal portraits, and other significant works of art. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, offering the same intense blue shade at a more accessible cost. Its distinctive appearance makes it a popular choice in various fields, including web design, fashion, and interior decoration, where it is used to evoke feelings of sophistication, depth, and creativity.

The hex color #120497, also known as Ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations, particularly in web design. Its dark hue results in a low luminance value, meaning it requires careful selection of foreground text colors to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) against its background. Using light colors such as white, light yellow, or bright pastels for text is advisable. Avoid using this color as a background for large blocks of text if the text color has poor contrast, as it can cause eye strain and readability issues for users, especially those with visual impairments. Additionally, when used in interactive elements like buttons or links, ensure that hover and focus states have sufficient contrast to indicate the active state clearly. Consider providing alternative color schemes for users with specific visual needs.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Website Headers and Footers

  Ultramarine (#120497) can be effectively used in website headers and footers to create a sophisticated and professional look. Its deep color evokes a sense of trust and reliability, making it suitable for businesses in finance, technology, or education. When paired with a clean, minimalist design and appropriate contrasting text, it can enhance the overall user experience and brand identity. For example, a tech company might use it as a primary color for its website, complemented by white or light gray for text and interactive elements, reinforcing its brand image of innovation and dependability.

• Fashion Accent Color

  In the fashion industry, Ultramarine can be used as an accent color in clothing designs, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. It works well in evening wear or formal attire, providing a rich, eye-catching contrast against lighter fabrics. It can also be incorporated into accessories such as scarves, handbags, or jewelry, making a bold statement without being overwhelming. When combined with metallic accents like gold or silver, it enhances the luxurious feel of the garment, making it perfect for high-end fashion collections. A designer might create a stunning evening gown with ultramarine accents, paired with silver jewelry and strappy heels, creating a memorable and stylish look.

• Interior Design Accent

  For interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It works well as a feature wall color, adding depth and richness to the space. When paired with neutral tones such as white, gray, or beige, it creates a balanced and harmonious environment. It can also be used in furniture upholstery, rugs, or decorative accessories, adding a pop of color to the room. For instance, an interior designer might use ultramarine as an accent wall in a living room, complemented by white sofas, gray curtains, and wooden furniture, creating a cozy and stylish living space.

Complementary color

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