Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #1912A6, commonly referred to as Ultramarine, is a deep and intense shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it consists of 9.8% red, 7.1% green, and 65.1% blue. Its hexadecimal representation, #1912A6, is widely used in web design and digital graphics. Ultramarine derives its name from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally made from lapis lazuli imported from Asia. Historically, it was highly prized and expensive, often used in paintings to depict robes of important religious figures. Today, synthetic versions make it more accessible. Its strong blue hue evokes feelings of depth, stability, and tranquility. In color psychology, blue is often associated with trust, loyalty, and intelligence. This makes Ultramarine a popular choice for corporate branding and designs where conveying reliability is essential.
The color #1912A6, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background or text color. Due to its dark nature, it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios. For text, it's crucial to use a light color 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. Using a color like white or a very light shade of yellow or green would be advisable to meet these standards. When used for interactive elements like buttons, ensure sufficient visual cues and feedback mechanisms are in place. Moreover, avoid using this color as the sole indicator of functionality, as colorblind users may have difficulty distinguishing it. Providing alternative cues, such as labels or icons, can enhance accessibility. Overall, while Ultramarine can be visually appealing, its accessibility must be carefully managed to ensure an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3430b2
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains the depth of Ultramarine while improving readability as a background color.
- #464186
A more desaturated blue that offers a softer look, useful in situations where Ultramarine's intensity might be overwhelming.
- #2922c6
A vivid color for highlighting elements with better contrast.
Applications
Website Design
Ultramarine, with its rich and deep tone, is excellent for creating a sense of sophistication and luxury on websites. It can be used in headers, footers, or as a background color for sections that need to stand out. To ensure readability, pair it with white or very light-colored text. Ultramarine is also suitable for interactive elements such as buttons or links, where it can be used to provide a visual cue to users. However, remember to provide sufficient contrast to meet accessibility standards. Additionally, consider using it for creating a color scheme with complementary or analogous colors to achieve a harmonious visual experience. Remember to test across different devices and browsers to ensure consistent rendering.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be utilized to add a touch of elegance and depth to a room. It works particularly well as an accent color, for example, on a feature wall, cushions, or artwork. When using Ultramarine in a room, consider the lighting as darker colors can make a space feel smaller and dimmer. Balance it with lighter, neutral colors to prevent the room from feeling too heavy. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can complement Ultramarine beautifully. Also, think about the texture of the materials; velvet or silk can enhance the luxurious feel of the color, while matte finishes can create a more modern, understated look.
Fashion and Beauty
Ultramarine is often favored in fashion for creating statement pieces, such as evening gowns, blazers, or accessories. It can be used to convey confidence and sophistication. Pairing Ultramarine with neutral colors like black, white, or gray allows the blue to stand out. For a bolder look, consider color blocking with complementary colors like orange or yellow. Ultramarine can be adapted to various styles, from classic to contemporary. In makeup, Ultramarine-inspired eyeshadows or eyeliners can add a pop of color and drama to the eyes. The rich and deep shade complements various skin tones, especially when used in combination with lighter shades for highlighting and contouring.