Ultramarine
About Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #16009B, is a deep, vivid shade of blue. Historically, ultramarine was derived from the precious stone lapis lazuli, making it a highly valued pigment, especially in Renaissance painting. The name 'ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' referring to its origin from stones imported into Europe from Asia. In the RGB color model, #16009B consists of 8.63% red, 0% green, and 61.18% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 86% cyan, 100% magenta, 0% yellow, and 39% black. This color is often associated with feelings of royalty, wisdom, and serenity.
The color #16009B, a deep ultramarine, presents several accessibility considerations for web development. Its dark hue results in high contrast against white text, generally meeting WCAG standards for readability. However, when paired with darker shades or busy backgrounds, readability can be compromised. Ensuring a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) is crucial. Additionally, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of interactive elements like links or buttons. Supplement it with underlines, icons, or text labels to aid users with color vision deficiencies. Thorough testing with accessibility tools and real users is recommended to validate sufficient contrast and clarity, especially for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design for Finance
Ultramarine (#16009B) evokes feelings of trust, stability, and intelligence, making it an excellent choice for financial institutions' websites and branding. It communicates reliability and professionalism. In user interface design, ultramarine can be used for primary action buttons, navigation menus, and highlighting key information to guide users effectively. The depth of the color also works well for creating a sophisticated and modern look. Be mindful of the contrast with text to ensure accessibility.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine (#16009B) can add a touch of elegance and drama to a space. It's best used as an accent color on walls, furniture, or decorative items rather than as the primary color, as it can be overwhelming. Consider pairing it with neutral tones like beige, gray, or white to balance its intensity. Ultramarine can also be incorporated into textiles, such as curtains, cushions, or rugs, to bring a sense of depth and sophistication to a room.
Fashion Design
Ultramarine (#16009B) can be a striking color choice for evening wear or formal attire. The deep, rich hue conveys confidence and sophistication. When incorporated into accessories like scarves, jewelry, or handbags, it can provide a vibrant pop of color against neutral outfits. Be mindful of skin tone and other color pairings, as ultramarine can appear stark against certain complexions. Ultimately, careful balancing makes this color a powerful fashion statement.