Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1207AD, is a deep blue pigment historically made by grinding lapis lazuli into a powder. The name 'Ultramarine' comes from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as the pigment was imported into Europe from Asia. Chemically, Ultramarine is a complex sodium aluminosilicate with sulfur. It is prized for its intense and pure blue hue, making it a staple in art and design. In modern times, synthetic Ultramarine is produced, offering a more affordable and consistent alternative to the natural pigment. It is used extensively in paints, plastics, cosmetics, and even laundry detergents to enhance whiteness. Ultramarine is considered a cool color that has a calming and relaxing effect.
The color #1207AD, Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When using this color for text, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with the background. A light or white background is highly recommended to improve readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using online contrast checker tools, web developers can verify whether chosen color pairings meet these standards. Also, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of important information; supplement it with text labels or icons to ensure accessibility for users with color vision deficiencies. Providing alternative color themes or allowing users to customize colors can further enhance the accessibility of web content utilizing Ultramarine.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine can be used as a primary color in a website design to convey a sense of trust and stability. Its vibrant yet deep tone makes it suitable for headings, buttons, and other interactive elements. Combining it with complementary colors like yellow or orange can create visually appealing and engaging user interfaces. In user interface design, Ultramarine is useful to highlight the most important aspects of the user interface and encourage users to click on certain items.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used as an accent color to add depth and sophistication to a room. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige, creating a calming and serene atmosphere. This color can be incorporated through accessories such as cushions, rugs, and artwork, or as a feature wall to make a bold statement. It also is a great choice for children's rooms and studies.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used to create striking and memorable outfits. It works well as a statement color for dresses, suits, or accessories. Its versatility allows it to be paired with a wide range of colors, from bright and bold hues to subtle and muted tones. In the cosmetics industry Ultramarine is also often used in eye shadow.