Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1506AE, is a deep blue pigment historically derived from the precious stone lapis lazuli. The name 'ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' reflecting its origin as a pigment imported to Europe from mines in Asia. Chemically, it is a complex sodium aluminum silicate with sulfur, giving it its characteristic blue color. This color is highly valued for its brilliance and lightfastness, making it a popular choice among artists for centuries. In modern applications, ultramarine is used in a variety of products, including paints, cosmetics, and plastics. It is also used in laundry detergents as a bluing agent to counteract yellowing and brighten white fabrics.
The color #1506AE, Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its dark hue. When used as a background, it requires very light text (ideally white or a very pale yellow) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using darker shades of text on this background will likely fail accessibility tests, making content difficult to perceive for users with visual impairments. When using it for interactive elements, consider adding visual cues beyond color alone, such as underlines for links or icons for buttons, to ensure usability for all users, including those with color blindness. Proper testing with accessibility tools is crucial to ensure compliance and an inclusive user experience. Consider providing alternative color schemes for users who prefer different contrast levels.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Ultramarine (#1506AE) can be used to create a sense of depth and richness in website designs. It is particularly effective for headers, footers, and other areas where you want to draw the user's eye. When combined with lighter shades or complementary colors, it can create a visually appealing and professional look. In branding, ultramarine conveys trust, stability, and sophistication. It is also used for call-to-action buttons or important links to make them stand out against a lighter background. It is important to use ultramarine judiciously, as overuse can overwhelm the user.
Interior Design, Fashion and Beauty
In interior design, Ultramarine can be incorporated as an accent color through accessories like throw pillows, rugs, or artwork to add a pop of color to a room. It works well with neutral color palettes to create a sophisticated and calming environment. For fashion, Ultramarine can be used in clothing or accessories to add a touch of elegance and boldness to an outfit. It pairs well with neutral colors like black, white, and gray, as well as other shades of blue and green. In makeup, ultramarine pigments can be used in eyeshadows or eyeliners to create a striking and dramatic look.
Data Visualization
Ultramarine, with its deep and rich hue, serves as an excellent choice for data visualization to highlight critical data points. Imagine a dashboard where key performance indicators (KPIs) are displayed; using #1506AE for the most significant metrics can instantly draw the user's attention. Additionally, in mapping applications, this color can represent areas of high density or importance, providing a clear visual hierarchy. In the realm of infographics, ultramarine can be employed to emphasize key statistics or figures, making the data more memorable and impactful for the audience. However, ensure adequate contrast with surrounding elements for accessibility.