Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #140A91, is a deep blue pigment that has been historically valued for its intense color. Originally derived from the mineral lapis lazuli, Ultramarine was highly prized and expensive, making it a color reserved for important works of art and religious paintings. Today, synthetic versions of Ultramarine are readily available, making it more accessible for various applications. The color sits in the blue-violet range of the color spectrum and is known for its strong saturation and depth. In modern contexts, Ultramarine evokes feelings of sophistication, authority, and mystery. Its dark and intense hue makes it suitable for both digital and print media, provided it is used thoughtfully to maintain readability and visual balance.
The color #140A91, Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially when used as a foreground color on a white or light background. Its low lightness value (approximately 6%) results in very poor contrast, failing WCAG AA and AAA standards for text and non-text contrast. To ensure accessibility, it is crucial to pair Ultramarine with very light colors, such as whites or light yellows, to achieve a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Alternatively, using #140A91 as a background color with white or very light text is highly recommended to improve readability and ensure compliance with accessibility guidelines. Consider using color contrast analyzers to verify contrast ratios and explore alternative color combinations to enhance accessibility for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
Ultramarine can be used as a striking accent color in website design, particularly for headers, buttons, or other interactive elements. It evokes a sense of trust, stability, and professionalism. Given its darkness, it is best used sparingly to highlight key areas rather than as a dominant background color. Consider pairing it with lighter, complementary colors to create a visually balanced and accessible user interface, ensuring readability and a positive user experience.
Beauty and Fashion
In the realm of beauty and fashion, Ultramarine can be incorporated in eye shadows, eyeliners, or nail polish to add a bold and sophisticated touch. Its rich pigmentation makes it suitable for creating dramatic looks. When used in clothing, it can serve as a statement piece, especially when paired with neutral colors like white, gray, or black. The intensity of Ultramarine ensures it will draw attention, making it a great choice for those looking to make a strong impression.
Interior Design Accent
Ultramarine can serve as an accent wall color in interior design to create a focal point in a room. It is particularly effective in studies, libraries, or areas where a sense of calm and focus is desired. When used in furniture, such as sofas or chairs, it can add a touch of elegance and sophistication. It is important to balance the intensity of Ultramarine with lighter wall colors and décor to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming, which helps create a harmonious environment.