Ultramarine
About Ultramarine (#12059F)
The hexadecimal color #12059F, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep, intense shade of blue. In the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model, it consists of 7.06% red, 1.96% green, and 62.35% blue. The name "Ultramarine" originates from the Latin "ultramarinus", meaning "beyond the sea", as it was historically derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, which was imported from distant lands. Ultramarine is associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and trust. It is often used to represent authority, intelligence, and sophistication. In color psychology, blue shades are believed to have a soothing effect, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. The historical significance and emotional associations linked to Ultramarine render it a powerful choice in various design and artistic applications.
The hex color #12059F, Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in text-based contexts. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against typical light backgrounds (like white), potentially violating WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. This can make it difficult for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, to read text or distinguish elements using this color. To enhance accessibility, consider using #12059F with very light or contrasting colors, ensuring a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Alternatively, use #12059F sparingly for purely decorative elements or graphic accents where readability isn't critical. Providing alternative text descriptions for images using this color also aids accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast on white backgrounds, enhancing readability.
- #4682b4
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color without overwhelming the design.
- #000080
A darker blue which is good for text, that has improved contrast compared to the original #12059F
Applications
Branding and UI Design
Ultramarine, with its deep, rich tone, evokes a sense of sophistication and depth. This makes it exceptionally suited for branding projects aiming to convey reliability, trustworthiness, or innovation. The color is also valuable in user interface (UI) design, particularly when used as a primary color for interactive elements or call-to-action buttons. However, designers should be mindful of accessibility concerns, ensuring sufficient contrast against background colors to maintain readability and usability. It can also be used in website headers and footers to give a brand a visual identity.
Fashion and Beauty
Ultramarine is a classic and versatile color that can be used in various fashion applications. Its ability to pair with a wide range of colors makes it perfect for creating both striking and subtle looks. In cosmetics, it can be used for eyeshadows, eyeliners, or even nail polishes to create depth and dimension. In clothing, Ultramarine can be used as the main color for garments or as an accent color for accessories. The best part of this color is that it works for different styles.
Interior Design
For interior design, Ultramarine is a bold choice. Its deep and immersive nature can create a strong focal point in a room. This hex color can be used for accent walls, furniture pieces, or decorative items like vases or artwork. When utilizing ultramarine, it is recommended to balance it with lighter colors like white, beige, or light gray to prevent the space from feeling dark or overwhelming. This color can add a touch of elegance and personality.