Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #14169F, is a deep blue pigment originally derived from the precious stone lapis lazuli. The name "ultramarine" comes from the Latin "ultramarinus," meaning "beyond the sea," as the pigment was imported to Europe from Asia. Known for its intense and luminous hue, ultramarine has been highly valued by artists for centuries, particularly during the Renaissance. It is chemically composed of a complex sodium aluminum silicate with sulfur. Synthetic ultramarine, developed in the 19th century, made this vibrant color more accessible and affordable. Today, it continues to be widely used in various applications, ranging from fine art and decorative coatings to plastics and cosmetics, appreciated for its rich, stable, and non-toxic properties.
The color #14169F, a deep ultramarine, presents unique accessibility considerations for web development. Due to its low luminance, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when used as a background or foreground color. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using a light color like white or a pale yellow for text on an ultramarine background is advisable. Also, avoid using this color for essential visual elements without proper text labels, as users with color vision deficiencies may struggle to perceive them. Providing alternative cues, such as icons or text descriptions, alongside color-coded information enhances accessibility for all users. Careful attention to color contrast and redundant coding practices ensures that content remains usable and understandable for individuals with diverse visual abilities.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4169e1
A slightly lighter shade of blue, offering better readability as a background color while retaining a similar aesthetic.
- #007bff
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements.
- #4682b4
A muted blue, this serves as a neutral background that increases readability.
Applications
Website Headers and Navigation Bars
Ultramarine, with its rich and sophisticated appearance, is ideally suited for website headers and navigation bars. It creates a professional look, evokes trust, and contributes to a positive user experience. Combining it with clean fonts and white space ensures readability and visual appeal. Furthermore, the color can be used for call-to-action buttons, highlighting key information and guiding users through the website's functionalities. Its depth also adds a sense of stability, making it a great choice for business and educational websites.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, ultramarine can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be incorporated as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create depth and visual interest. When paired with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige, it can help balance the space. Furniture upholstered in ultramarine velvet or linen can add a luxurious touch, while artwork featuring the color can bring vibrancy and personality to a room. It is a good choice for creating a peaceful retreat.
Fashion and Beauty
Ultramarine is a popular choice for formal wear due to its elegance and versatility. It looks flattering in dresses, suits and other garments. Accessories in complementary colors like gold or silver can accentuate the richness of the color. Ultramarine can also be incorporated into makeup looks. An ultramarine eyeshadow or eyeliner can make the eyes pop, while nail polish in this color adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.