Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #120FA5, is a deep, intense blue color with a slight violet undertone. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments. Its name literally means 'beyond the sea,' referring to its origin from overseas. Today, synthetic versions of Ultramarine are widely available, making it more accessible for various applications. In color theory, Ultramarine is considered a cool color, evoking feelings of calmness, serenity, and depth. It is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality. Its unique shade is achieved through a complex chemical composition, resulting in its characteristic rich and vibrant appearance. Ultramarine is used in numerous fields, ranging from art and fashion to web design and printing.
The color #120FA5, also known as Ultramarine, presents several accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its dark hue necessitates careful consideration of color contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments. When using Ultramarine for text or interactive elements, it's essential to pair it with a light color like white or a very pale yellow to ensure readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Avoid using Ultramarine for small, critical text or icons against a dark background, as this can make them difficult to discern. Providing alternative visual cues, such as underlines for links or labels for form fields, can further enhance accessibility for users who may struggle with color perception. Thoroughly testing the color scheme with accessibility tools and real users with visual impairments is vital to ensure an inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be used to highlight primary calls to action or important navigation elements. Its boldness draws the user's eye, making it suitable for buttons, headings, and key information sections. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with light text and used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user. It is a sophisticated color option to be used carefully in user interfaces. Ultramarine can add a touch of elegance and professionalism to the overall design. Consider using it to enhance the user experience in a web application.
Beauty
In the beauty industry, Ultramarine is a popular shade for eyeshadows, eyeliners, and nail polishes. Its rich, deep hue creates a dramatic and captivating look. It is often used to create smoky eyes or to add a pop of color to the nails. Ultramarine complements a wide range of skin tones, making it a versatile choice for beauty products. Using Ultramarine in makeup creates an attractive and sophisticated effect. Its intensity makes it a popular choice for evening wear and special occasions, adding flair to any style.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine is a great color for accent walls or statement furniture pieces. Its deep color brings sophistication to any room. Ultramarine pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige, creating a balanced and harmonious space. It can also be used to create a focal point in a room, such as a bold piece of art or a luxurious velvet sofa. Ultramarine's rich, captivating essence in interior design helps create inviting and aesthetically pleasing environments.