Ultramarine
General Information About Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #131288, is a deep blue color historically derived from the precious mineral lapis lazuli. The name "ultramarine" literally means "beyond the sea," reflecting its origin as a pigment imported into Europe from distant lands. Known for its rich, intense hue, ultramarine has been prized by artists for centuries due to its excellent lightfastness and vibrant appearance. In modern color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, often associated with feelings of tranquility, depth, and sophistication. Its deep saturation makes it suitable for adding depth and visual interest to designs. Today, synthetic versions of ultramarine are widely available, offering a more affordable and consistent alternative to the natural pigment.
The color #131288, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value means that text rendered in this color requires very light foreground colors to achieve sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet WCAG AA standards. Using tools to check contrast ratios is crucial. Also, avoid using this color for critical interactive elements or information conveyance without redundant cues, such as icons or labels. When possible, provide options for users to customize colors to suit their individual needs. Proper color contrast ensures readability and usability for a wider audience, enhancing the overall user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, ultramarine (#131288) can be used sparingly as an accent color to highlight important elements or create a sense of depth and sophistication. It works well for headers, buttons, or background accents, especially when paired with lighter, neutral colors to ensure readability and accessibility. However, due to its darkness, it's essential to avoid using it for large blocks of text or as the primary background color, as this can strain the eyes. It can be complemented with lighter shades of blues or contrasting colors like yellows or oranges to create a visually appealing and balanced design.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, ultramarine can bring a touch of elegance and drama to a space. It can be used as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom, creating a focal point and adding depth to the room. When using it as a wall color, it's best to balance it with lighter furniture and accessories to prevent the space from feeling too dark or heavy. Ultramarine can also be incorporated through textiles like curtains, rugs, or throw pillows, providing pops of color and visual interest. It pairs well with neutral tones like whites, grays, and creams, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver.
Fashion
In fashion, ultramarine can be used in clothing and accessories. A dark ultramarine dress can be very elegant. As an accent color it can be used in scarfs and bags.