Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The hexadecimal color #130AAA, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep and saturated shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its strong, almost violet undertones. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 7.45% red, 0% green, and 66.67% blue. Its CMYK values are 90% cyan, 100% magenta, 0% yellow, and 33% black. Ultramarine's name derives from the pigment originally made by grinding lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone. Historically, this pigment was highly valued for its vibrancy and durability, making it a popular choice among artists. Today, synthetic ultramarine pigments provide a more accessible and affordable alternative, while maintaining the color's distinctive and captivating appearance.
The color #130AAA, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in text-based contexts. Its low lightness value (relative luminance around 0.02) means that it requires very light text on top to meet WCAG standards for contrast ratios. For standard text sizes (14pt/18px and below), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is needed, while larger text (18pt/24px and above) requires a 3:1 ratio. Using #130AAA as a background color mandates careful selection of foreground text colors, leaning towards white or very light shades of grey. When used for interactive elements like buttons, ensure sufficient contrast in all states (default, hover, focus, and active) to cater to users with visual impairments. Also, avoid using it as the sole indicator for conveying information, as colorblind users might not perceive it accurately. Always supplement color cues with text labels or other visual indicators.
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Digital Color Formats
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Applications
Web Design Accent Color
Ultramarine (#130AAA) can be used as an accent color in web design to draw attention to specific elements, such as buttons, links, or headings. Its rich hue makes it suitable for technology-related websites, educational platforms, or creative portfolios. When incorporating it, consider pairing it with neutral colors like white, light grey, or a muted beige to balance its intensity. Avoid using it as the primary background color due to its low luminance, which can cause eye strain and accessibility issues. Instead, reserve it for smaller elements where it can add a touch of sophistication and visual interest without overwhelming the overall design.
Fashion Apparel and Accessories
In the fashion industry, Ultramarine (#130AAA) can be used as a bold and eye-catching color for garments, accessories, or even makeup. Its deep blue hue evokes feelings of confidence and style. It works well in combination with neutral colors like black, white, or grey, but can also be paired with complementary colors for a more striking look. For example, an ultramarine dress can be accessorized with gold jewelry or a bright orange handbag to create a vibrant and memorable outfit. The color can also be used in smaller doses as an accent color in patterns or prints.
Interior Design Accent Color
Ultramarine (#130AAA) can bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to interior design projects. The color can be incorporated as an accent wall in a living room or bedroom to create a focal point, or it can be used in smaller doses in furniture, textiles, or decorative objects. When working with ultramarine in interior design, it's essential to balance it with lighter colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Consider pairing it with white, beige, or light grey walls, and incorporating natural elements like wood or plants to create a sense of warmth and balance.