Ultramarine
General Information
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #130992, is a deep and intense shade of blue. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the rare and expensive mineral lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized pigment, especially during the Renaissance. The name 'Ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' referring to the pigment's origin, as it was imported into Europe from mines in Asia. Today, synthetic Ultramarine is widely available, offering the same beautiful hue at a fraction of the cost. This color is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality. In color psychology, deep blues like Ultramarine can evoke feelings of calm, trust, and authority, making it a popular choice for branding and design. Its rich tone adds depth and sophistication to any visual composition.
The hex color #130992, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its dark hue. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text (ideally white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular). A color like #130992 may struggle to meet these ratios with many common text colors. Therefore, designers and developers must meticulously test the color combination using contrast checkers to verify compliance. Utilizing this color for interactive elements like buttons or links demands careful consideration of hover and focus states to maintain accessibility throughout the user experience. Always prioritize users with visual impairments by providing high contrast options.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, lends itself beautifully to website designs aiming for a sophisticated and trustworthy feel. It's particularly effective in headers, footers, or as a background for testimonials, creating a sense of stability and professionalism. When used sparingly in conjunction with lighter accent colors, it can guide the user's eye and establish a clear visual hierarchy, improving the overall user experience. Consider using it for financial or corporate websites looking to project authority and confidence.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Ultramarine (#130992) serves as a striking accent color or a base for evening wear. Its luxurious feel makes it suitable for silk gowns, velvet jackets, or as embroidery details. It can be paired with metallics for a glamorous look or with neutral tones for a more understated elegance. The color exudes confidence and sophistication and is perfect for making a statement.
Interior Design
For interior design, Ultramarine can be used as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom. It's a great colour for soft furnishings, especially pillows and throws, adding a touch of luxury. Because of its intensity, it should be used in moderation.