Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1405AE, is a deep blue pigment historically derived from the mineral lapis lazuli. Its name originates from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as the pigment was imported into Europe from mines in Asia. Renowned for its intense and vibrant hue, ultramarine has been prized by artists throughout history, including Renaissance masters, for its exceptional colorfastness and brilliance. In modern applications, synthetic ultramarine is widely used in paints, plastics, cosmetics, and other products due to its stability and non-toxicity. This pigment is also used to offset yellow undertones in white materials, enhancing brightness. The hex code #1405AE signifies a color composed primarily of blue, with relatively low contributions from red and green, resulting in a deep, almost royal, blue shade.
The hex color #1405AE, also known as Ultramarine, presents specific accessibility challenges, particularly in text and user interface design. Its dark hue means it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, text should have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against its background for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #1405AE for text, a very light color such as white or a very pale yellow is necessary to meet these standards. Similarly, when using it as a background color, text must be a light color. Failure to ensure adequate contrast can render content unreadable for many users, including those with low vision or color blindness. Therefore, designers and developers must rigorously test color combinations to guarantee accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine (#1405AE) can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication in web design. It is suitable for headers, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons, especially when paired with lighter, contrasting colors for readability. Its rich tone can add a touch of elegance to a website, making it appropriate for brands that want to convey reliability or creativity. The color should be balanced by neutral tones to prevent visual fatigue. In interactive designs, it is essential to ensure that interactive elements using this color are clearly distinguishable and meet accessibility standards for color contrast.
Beauty and Fashion
In the beauty industry, Ultramarine can be incorporated into eye shadows, eyeliners, or nail polishes to achieve a dramatic and sophisticated look. Its deep blue hue provides a bold statement, making it suitable for evening wear or special occasions. As a fashion accent color, #1405AE can be used in accessories like scarves, handbags, or shoes to add a pop of color to a neutral outfit. It's essential to balance the intensity of this color with softer tones to create visually appealing outfits.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be utilized as an accent color in various spaces to bring depth and sophistication. It is well-suited for use on accent walls, decorative pillows, or artwork, adding a touch of drama to living rooms, bedrooms, or studies. The color pairs well with neutral tones such as gray, white, or beige, creating a harmonious and visually appealing environment. Ultramarine can also be combined with metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its luxurious feel. When using the color, it is important to ensure a balance with lighter shades to avoid overwhelming the space.