Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1A0596, is a deep and intense shade of blue, often associated with royalty, depth, and tranquility. It is a color that evokes feelings of calmness and serenity. Its name is derived from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally imported from overseas. Historically, Ultramarine was one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments, made from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli. Nowadays, it can be synthetically produced which makes it available to a broad audience. Due to its intensity, it's best used in moderation, or balanced with lighter, complementary colors.
The color #1A0596, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its dark hue results in very low contrast against typical light backgrounds (like white), making text and other elements difficult to read. A contrast ratio below the WCAG recommended minimums for text sizes means that individuals with low vision may struggle to distinguish content using this color. To improve accessibility, consider pairing it with very light colors or using a color contrast checker to ensure sufficient contrast. Also avoid using this color as the only way to convey important information.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic feel.
A more saturated blue which is still dark, but easier to see and to provide a better contrast.
A bright and vibrant blue that offers greater visibility and accessibility compared to the darker Ultramarine.
Applications
Interior Design
Ultramarine (#1A0596) can be used to create a luxurious and sophisticated ambiance in interior design. It is ideal for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms. Consider pairing it with gold or silver accents to enhance the sense of elegance and to create a visually stunning interior.
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be utilized for header backgrounds or call-to-action buttons to draw attention. However, due to its low contrast, it is essential to use it sparingly and ensure adequate contrast with text and other elements to maintain accessibility. It may also be used for creating graphical elements.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used in garments or accessories to add a touch of mystery and depth. It's a great color for evening wear or statement pieces. Also, ultramarine nail polish may be used to highlight a certain style or to show off self-confidence.