Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine

Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #180098, is a deep, intense shade of blue. It is named after the pigment derived from the gemstone lapis lazuli, which was historically highly valued and expensive. In the RGB color model, #180098 consists of 9.41% red, 0% green, and 59.61% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 84% cyan, 100% magenta, 0% yellow, and 40% black. This color conveys feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. It is often associated with trust, intelligence, and authority. Ultramarine is used in various fields, including art, design, and branding, to evoke a sense of professionalism and confidence. Its rich hue makes it a popular choice for creating visually appealing and memorable designs. Ultramarine possesses a unique spectral fingerprint, absorbing most wavelengths of light except those in the blue region, which it reflects back to our eyes, giving it its characteristic color.

The hex color #180098, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, especially concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Ultramarine, being a dark color, may not meet these ratios with moderately light colors. Therefore, careful consideration is needed when choosing text colors to pair with it. In cases where achieving sufficient contrast is difficult, it's advisable to use a lighter tint of Ultramarine or a completely different, lighter color altogether. Additionally, relying solely on color to convey important information should be avoided. Providing alternative cues, such as text labels or icons, can ensure that content remains accessible to users with color vision deficiencies.

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Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Corporate Branding

  Ultramarine's depth and sophistication make it an excellent choice for branding in industries aiming to convey trust and reliability. It can be used in logos, website headers, and marketing materials for financial institutions, law firms, or technology companies. The color evokes a sense of stability and intelligence, reinforcing the brand's message. When using Ultramarine in branding, pair it with complementary colors like gold or silver to enhance its luxurious feel or with lighter blues and grays for a modern and approachable look. Consider typography choices carefully to maintain readability and ensure the brand's message is communicated effectively.

• Web Design Accents

  In web design, Ultramarine can be utilized to create a visually striking and engaging user experience. It's particularly effective for accent colors, buttons, and interactive elements. The color draws the user's eye and can guide them through the website's content. However, it's crucial to use Ultramarine sparingly and balance it with lighter, neutral colors to avoid overwhelming the user. Consider using it for calls-to-action or highlighting important information. Ensure that the text used on Ultramarine backgrounds meets accessibility standards for contrast to maintain readability for all users. Responsive design principles should be applied to ensure the color scheme looks consistent across various devices.

• Makeup and Cosmetics

  Ultramarine's rich hue makes it suitable for creating dramatic and sophisticated looks. It can be used as an eyeshadow, eyeliner, or even a bold lip color. It complements various skin tones, particularly those with cool undertones. When using Ultramarine in makeup, consider pairing it with other cool-toned shades like silver, gray, or lavender. A touch of shimmer can enhance the color's intensity and add a glamorous effect. Remember to blend well to achieve a seamless finish. Ultramarine can also be used in nail polish to create a statement look.

Complementary color

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