Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1704AF, 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. Chemically, it's a complex sodium aluminosilicate with sulfur, giving it its characteristic blue hue. In the RGB color model, #1704AF consists of 9.02% red, 1.57% green, and 68.63% blue. It's a saturated color with a strong presence, often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality. Historically, ultramarine was highly prized and expensive, making it a color reserved for important figures and artistic masterpieces. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, making it more accessible for various applications.
The color #1704AF, Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio when paired with lighter text colors like white or yellow, making it difficult to read. Therefore, when utilizing this color in web design or other applications, it's essential to carefully consider the foreground and background color combinations. Using a color contrast checker tool can help ensure that sufficient contrast exists, ideally meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. In addition, providing alternative text descriptions for images or elements using this color is crucial for users who rely on screen readers. Thoughtful color selection and adherence to accessibility guidelines guarantee a more inclusive and user-friendly experience for everyone, regardless of their visual abilities.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast when used as a background color with white text.
- #4682b4
A more desaturated blue that is less intense and can be easier on the eyes for extended viewing.
- #6495ed
A more modern and calming blue which provides better contrast and can be used in different contexts
Applications
Interior Design
Ultramarine (#1704AF) can be used to create a luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere in interior design. It works well as an accent color in furniture, walls, or decorative items. When combined with gold or silver accents, it evokes a sense of opulence. In a bedroom, it can be used to create a calming and serene environment, while in a living room, it can add depth and visual interest. It is a color that can be used to create a focal point in a room and is often paired with neutral colors to balance its boldness.
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be used to create a sense of trust and professionalism. It is often used in the logos and branding of financial institutions, tech companies, and healthcare providers. It can also be used to highlight important information or call-to-action buttons. However, due to its darkness, it is important to use it sparingly and to ensure sufficient contrast with the text and other elements on the page. When used effectively, Ultramarine can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a website.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Ultramarine is a bold and versatile color that can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used as a statement color in dresses, suits, or outerwear. It can also be used as an accent color in accessories such as scarves, handbags, and shoes. Ultramarine is often associated with royalty and sophistication. This is why it's also a great choice for formal events. It can be paired with neutral colors such as black, white, or gray, or it can be combined with other bold colors such as red or yellow for a more daring look.