Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine (#130D8A)
The color #130D8A, also known as Ultramarine, is a deep, intense shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family, sitting closer to the indigo end of the spectrum. Historically, ultramarine pigment was derived from the precious stone lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments during the medieval and Renaissance periods. The name 'ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' referring to its origin from stones imported into Europe from Asia. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, offering the same vibrant color at a fraction of the cost. In color psychology, deep blues like ultramarine are associated with trustworthiness, stability, and knowledge. It can evoke feelings of calmness and serenity, but also seriousness and formality.
The color #130D8A, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value (approximately 3.6) necessitates careful consideration of color contrast. When used as text, it demands a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards for normal text (4.5:1 contrast ratio) and AAA standards for enhanced contrast (7:1). Even larger text may struggle to achieve sufficient contrast on moderately dark backgrounds. Designers should avoid pairing this color with other dark hues. Instead, opt for backgrounds close to white or very pale shades of yellow or cyan. When used for graphical elements, ensure a contrast ratio of at least 3:1 against adjacent colors to maintain usability. Providing alternative text descriptions for images using this color is crucial for screen reader users. Careful implementation of ARIA attributes can also improve the accessibility of interactive elements using #130D8A.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2962ff
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against both light and dark backgrounds.
- #0d47a1
A more saturated blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements while maintaining a degree of accessibility.
- #808080
A neutral grey can be used as an alternative to this blue to convey a similar level of importance and provides better accessibility.
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, ultramarine can be used sparingly for accent elements such as buttons, links, or icons to draw the user's attention without overwhelming the design. It is especially effective in creating a sense of depth or sophistication, particularly on websites for financial institutions, legal firms, or educational platforms. Using it as a background color is not adviced, due to the low contrast.
Cosmetics and Beauty
In the beauty industry, ultramarine pigments are often incorporated into eyeshadows, eyeliners, and mascaras to create a bold, dramatic look. Its intense color can enhance eye color and add depth to makeup looks. It's often seen in evening or special occasion makeup. Ultramarine is also used in nail polish formulations to achieve deep blue shades.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, ultramarine can serve as an accent color in a room, appearing in artwork, throw pillows, or decorative accessories. It's commonly used in nautical-themed designs or to add a pop of color to neutral spaces. Due to its boldness, it works best in moderation. For example, a single ultramarine wall can create a statement while the rest of the room features lighter, complementary colors.