Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #1A039F, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep and vibrant shade of blue with a rich history. Derived from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' it was originally made from ground lapis lazuli, a rare and expensive gemstone imported from Afghanistan. This explains why it was highly prized in Renaissance painting, often reserved for depicting the robes of the Virgin Mary. Today, synthetic Ultramarine is readily available, making it more accessible. In color theory, Ultramarine is considered a cool color, evoking feelings of calmness, serenity, and stability. It is often associated with trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. Its hexadecimal code, #1A039F, indicates a specific blend of red, green, and blue light that creates this unique hue.
The hex color #1A039F, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges primarily due to its dark hue. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text (ideally white or a very pale shade) 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 to meet AA compliance. For AAA compliance, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. Given Ultramarine's darkness, careful consideration is crucial to meet these standards. Using online contrast checker tools is highly recommended to verify compliance. Avoid pairing it with medium to dark shades of gray, blue, or purple, as these combinations are likely to fail accessibility checks. Consider providing alternative themes or color options for users with visual impairments or color vision deficiencies to enhance overall accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3329a6
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains the essence of Ultramarine but offers improved contrast when paired with darker text.
- #4d468e
A more desaturated blue that provides a softer visual impact, making it easier on the eyes for extended viewing.
- #1a9f7c
A color with a bit of green to add some complexity to the design.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be used for headers, navigation bars, or as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements. Its deep, rich tone conveys a sense of professionalism and sophistication, making it suitable for websites related to finance, technology, or education. It works well when contrasted with lighter backgrounds such as whites, creams, or light grays. It is often used to create a distinct and memorable brand identity.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be incorporated as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a sense of depth and tranquility. It can also be used in smaller doses through accessories like cushions, curtains, or artwork to add a pop of color to a neutral space. When paired with metallic accents like gold or silver, it exudes a luxurious and elegant feel.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used in dresses, suits, or accessories such as scarves or handbags. It complements a variety of skin tones and can be paired with neutral colors like black, white, or gray for a classic and sophisticated look. It can also be combined with brighter colors like yellow or orange for a more bold and playful outfit. Ultramarine is a versatile color that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.