Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #130EA5, is a deep and intense shade of blue. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the rare and precious mineral lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued pigment in art and decoration. This color is characterized by its high saturation and purity, lending a sense of depth and richness to any application. In color theory, Ultramarine is considered a cool color, often associated with feelings of calmness, serenity, and wisdom. Its intense nature can also convey a sense of power and authority. In modern usage, Ultramarine is widely employed in various fields, including graphic design, web development, fashion, and interior decoration. Its versatility allows it to be used both as a primary color and as an accent to create visually striking effects.
The hex color #130EA5, also known as Ultramarine, presents accessibility challenges due to its deep, saturated hue. When used as a foreground color, it requires careful consideration of the background color to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. A light background, such as white or a very pale yellow (#FFFFE0), is recommended to achieve a contrast ratio that meets WCAG guidelines (minimum 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Avoid pairing it with dark colors, as this will reduce legibility. In user interface design, use Ultramarine sparingly for key elements like buttons or links to draw attention, but always verify contrast ratios using accessibility tools. When using Ultramarine for decorative purposes, ensure essential information is not solely conveyed through color. Consider providing alternative cues like text labels or icons. Additionally, avoid using Ultramarine for large blocks of text, as its high saturation can cause eye strain for some users. Proper implementation and testing are crucial to ensure an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers improved readability on lighter backgrounds.
A desaturated blue that provides a softer look and greater versatility in various design contexts.
A color with slightly enhanced luminosity and similar hue to the original color.
Applications
Luxury Branding in Web Design
Ultramarine, with its rich and intense blue, evokes a sense of luxury and sophistication. In web design, it can be used to create a premium feel for brands in the finance, technology, or high-end fashion industries. It can be incorporated into website headers, call-to-action buttons, or accent elements to draw attention and convey a sense of quality. When using Ultramarine, ensure it aligns with the overall brand identity and target audience. Use it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user and maintain a balanced visual hierarchy. Pairing it with neutral colors such as white, gray, or beige can create a clean and sophisticated look, while metallic accents like gold or silver can enhance the sense of luxury.
Accent Color in Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a bold and dramatic statement. It works well as an accent color in rooms with neutral palettes, such as living rooms or bedrooms. Consider using Ultramarine for a feature wall, throw pillows, or artwork to add a pop of color and create visual interest. Its intensity makes it suitable for spaces where you want to create a sense of depth or drama. For example, you could use Ultramarine in a home office to create a sense of focus and productivity or in a dining room to create a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere. It should be balanced with lighter shades to keep the space open and bright.
Data Visualization
Ultramarine can be used as a dark accent color to represent scientific or research related activities. Its deepness represents the deepness of complex systems and topics. It can be used for data visualizations, diagrams and infographics to highlight important trends and insights. Always ensure a good contrast to keep the readability of information.