Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #130C8F, is a deep and intense shade of blue. It derives its name from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as the pigment was originally imported from regions beyond the sea, primarily from Afghanistan, where lapis lazuli, the source of natural ultramarine pigment, was mined. In color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, associated with feelings of calmness, depth, and stability. It is often used to convey a sense of trust, intelligence, and authority. The RGB values for #130C8F are R:19, G:12, B:143, indicating a strong dominance of blue. It is relatively dark, with a low luminance, giving it a sophisticated and mysterious appeal. Ultramarine has a long history in art, particularly during the Renaissance, where it was highly prized for its vibrant color and permanence.
The color #130C8F, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance of only 3% means that text rendered in this color on a white background, or vice versa, will fail WCAG's contrast requirements by a large margin. The contrast ratio is approximately 5.4:1, far below the recommended 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. To ensure readability and inclusivity, especially for users with visual impairments, it is essential to pair this color with very light shades of yellow or white for text, or use it sparingly for decorative elements. Avoid using it for important information or interactive components without careful contrast adjustments. Consider adding a darker outline to light text on an ultramarine background to enhance readability. Tools are available to check color contrast ratios and simulate how colors appear to users with different types of color blindness, and they should be integrated into the design process when using this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be used to create a sophisticated and elegant feel. It's suitable for backgrounds or accents in websites related to technology, finance, or education. However, designers must be cautious about contrast ratios, particularly when using it for text. Pairing it with contrasting colors like yellow or white can ensure readability and accessibility. Consider using it for less important elements of a website, such as graphical accents and icons, to retain visual appeal without compromising usability. For larger text, using a slightly lighter shade or adding a text shadow can also improve visibility. Experiment with different color combinations to find the best balance between aesthetics and accessibility.
Beauty
In the beauty industry, Ultramarine can be used to create striking eye makeup looks or as a shade for nail polish. Its rich, deep color makes it ideal for creating bold, statement looks. Ultramarine eyeshadow or eyeliner can add depth and dimension to the eyes, while ultramarine nail polish can add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. When using it in makeup, consider balancing it with lighter shades to prevent it from overpowering the overall look. For example, pairing it with nude lipstick or a soft blush can create a harmonious and balanced appearance. This color is best suited for those who want to make a statement and aren't afraid to experiment with bold colors.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Ultramarine can be a sophisticated statement color. Ultramarine dresses create a dramatic effect. Accessorize with gold or silver jewelry to enhance its richness. It can be used for evening wear, formal occasions, or for a bold, eye-catching everyday look. Balance the intensity of the color with neutral tones to avoid being overwhelming. For example, pair an Ultramarine top with beige pants or a grey skirt. Also use it as an accent color in scarves, handbags, or shoes to add a pop of color to a neutral outfit.