Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #130D8B, is a deep blue pigment originally derived from the mineral lapis lazuli. Its name comes from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as the pigment was imported into Europe from Asia. Historically, it was a highly prized and expensive pigment, often reserved for important figures in paintings, such as the Virgin Mary. In modern times, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, making it an accessible and versatile color for various applications, ranging from artistic endeavors to commercial design projects. It provides a sense of stability and professionalism, making it very popular.
The color #130D8B, a deep ultramarine, presents accessibility challenges due to its low luminance. When used as text, it requires a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. Insufficient contrast can make content difficult to read, especially for users with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using tools like a contrast checker is crucial to ensure readability. For interactive elements like buttons, sufficient contrast is equally important. Avoid using this color for crucial information without ensuring proper contrast. Consider using it sparingly as an accent color, or pair it with lighter shades to improve overall accessibility and user experience. Testing with various user groups and assistive technologies can further refine color choices.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2962ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers improved contrast and readability, while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1e88e5
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements on a page, with better accessibility due to increased brightness.
- #455a64
A muted greyish-blue offers a sophisticated and subtle alternative for backgrounds or text, promoting readability and visual comfort.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, ultramarine can serve as a striking accent color for headers, buttons, or interactive elements, provided sufficient contrast with the background is maintained. It evokes feelings of trust and stability. Consider using it in limited amounts to highlight key information or brand elements, rather than as a primary background or text color. For example, use #130D8B as the main color of the company logo, which is placed on a white background.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, #130D8B, the ultramarine color, can be used to make a bold statement in clothing design, especially for evening wear or formal attire. It can be paired with neutral colors like gray or white to create a sophisticated look. Furthermore, this particular color could be used as a deep and impactful color in logo design, conveying reliability and stability, particularly within the finance or technology sectors, where confidence is paramount.
Interiour Design
In interior design, this deep blue can create a dramatic accent wall in a living room or bedroom. Its richness adds depth and elegance. It can also be used in smaller decorative elements such as vases or cushions to provide pops of color against a neutral backdrop. The choice of color can transform an area to become luxurious and provide a sense of calmness.