Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1A05AE, is a deep blue pigment historically derived from the mineral lapis lazuli. This color is characterized by its rich, intense hue, often associated with royalty, wisdom, and the sea. In the RGB color model, #1A05AE is composed of 10.2% red, 2.0% green, and 68.2% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 85% cyan, 97% magenta, 0% yellow, and 32% black. Ultramarine has been highly valued throughout history, particularly in art, where it was prized for its vibrancy and permanence. Its synthetic form, French Ultramarine, offers a more accessible and affordable alternative while maintaining similar color characteristics.
The color #1A05AE, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its dark hue results in low contrast against commonly used light backgrounds, making text and interface elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for ensuring readability and usability. To improve accessibility, it's recommended to pair Ultramarine with very light colors, such as white or pale yellow, to meet the contrast ratios specified in WCAG 2.1 Level AA and AAA. Using tools that check color contrast ratios is essential to verify compliance. Additionally, avoid using Ultramarine for critical interactive elements without clear visual cues or labels to ensure users can perceive and understand them. Consider offering alternative color schemes that provide better contrast for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, making it more accessible for users with visual impairments.
A vibrant purple that can be used as an alternative accent color to provide visual interest without compromising accessibility.
A dark grayish-blue which is still in the blue hue family, but may provide a slightly different feel while still being usable in similar contexts.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be used sparingly as an accent color to highlight specific elements such as buttons, links, or headers. Due to its dark nature, it should be paired with light backgrounds to ensure sufficient contrast and readability. It is suitable for creating a sophisticated and elegant look. This color evokes feelings of trust and authority, making it ideal for websites related to finance, education, or technology. However, it's important to consider accessibility guidelines and ensure that text and interactive elements have sufficient contrast. Ultramarine can also be used in data visualization to represent important data points or categories.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used to create striking and sophisticated looks. It works well in evening wear, formal attire, or as an accent color in accessories. It can be paired with neutral colors like gray, black, or white for a classic and timeless look, or combined with brighter colors like gold or fuchsia for a more daring and modern style. This color conveys a sense of elegance and mystery, making it suitable for creating a bold statement. Ultramarine fabrics can also be used in interior design to add a touch of drama and sophistication to a space.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used as an accent color to create a focal point in a room. It works well on accent walls, furniture, or decorative items. It pairs nicely with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white. Ultramarine can add depth and sophistication to a space, creating a sense of calm and serenity. It is suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. This color evokes feelings of creativity and inspiration, making it ideal for spaces where you want to encourage imagination and productivity. Ultramarine can also be used in artwork and graphic design to create visually stunning compositions.