Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #12188B, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It derives its name from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as the pigment was originally imported from mines in Afghanistan by sea in the 14th and 15th centuries. Historically, it was made from ground lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized and expensive pigment used primarily in Renaissance paintings, especially for depictions of the Virgin Mary's robes. In modern usage, it's a versatile color often associated with depth, stability, and sophistication. In color psychology, blue is often linked to trustworthiness, intelligence, and serenity.
The accessibility of #12188B (Ultramarine) should be carefully considered, especially for text and interactive elements. Due to its dark nature, it requires light-colored text (white or very light shades of yellow or grey) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. 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). Using this color for backgrounds or large elements can be effective, but avoid using it for crucial interactive components without proper contrast. Testing with accessibility tools is essential to verify compliance with WCAG guidelines, ensuring that users with visual impairments can perceive and interact with the content effectively. Furthermore, avoid using this color as the sole indicator for interactive elements; supplement it with other visual cues, such as underlines or icons, to cater to users with color vision deficiencies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Development
In web development, Ultramarine can be used to create a sophisticated and professional aesthetic for websites related to finance, technology, or education. It can be employed for header backgrounds, navigation bars, or as an accent color to highlight important sections. Its depth can add a sense of trustworthiness and stability to the overall design. However, it's essential to balance it with lighter elements to prevent the design from feeling too heavy or overwhelming. Proper contrast with text and interactive elements is crucial to ensure accessibility and usability.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used as a statement color for walls in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It pairs well with neutral tones like white, beige, or grey, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. Using it sparingly, such as for accent walls or furniture, can add depth and visual interest to a space without making it feel too dark. It’s also suitable for creating a nautical-themed room when combined with sandy tones and natural textures.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be incorporated into clothing designs to add a touch of elegance and sophistication. It's a versatile color that works well for both formal and casual wear. Consider using it for dresses, suits, or even accessories like scarves or handbags. It can be paired with other jewel tones like emerald green or ruby red for a bold and luxurious look, or with neutral colors like black, white, or beige for a more classic and understated style. Proper fabric choices are important to showcase the richness of the color.