Ultramarine

General Information about Ultramarine (#1A0890)

The color #1A0890, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep and rich shade of blue, categorized within the blue color family. Ultramarine derives its name from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' reflecting its historical origin as a pigment sourced from lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone imported from distant lands, particularly Afghanistan. It is characterized by its intense, non-reddish blue hue, often associated with depth, stability, and sophistication. In color psychology, blue is frequently linked to feelings of calmness, trust, and intelligence. Ultramarine's distinct saturation and darkness make it a powerful choice for creating visually striking designs, though careful consideration must be given to its usage to ensure accessibility and readability. Ultramarine is a dark shade of blue. The color code is composed of 10.2% red, 3.1% green and 56.1% blue.

The color #1A0890, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its very dark hue results in low contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text or interactive elements difficult to read for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Ultramarine struggles to meet these ratios with common background colors like white or light gray. Designers should carefully evaluate color pairings and consider providing alternative, high-contrast themes. To improve accessibility, using a very light text color (like white or a very pale yellow) on an Ultramarine background is crucial. Additionally, avoid using Ultramarine for crucial interactive elements like buttons or links without proper contrast. Careful attention should be given to testing color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance and usability for all users.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design

  In web design, Ultramarine can be effectively used for background elements, headers, or decorative accents where a sophisticated and deep color is desired. However, it is crucial to pair it with very light text colors like white or a pale yellow to ensure readability. For instance, a website for a financial institution could use Ultramarine for its header and navigation bar to convey a sense of trust and stability. Furthermore, carefully consider the contrast ratio to meet accessibility standards. Avoid using it for critical interactive elements such as buttons or links without proper contrast.

• Beauty and Cosmetics

  In the beauty industry, Ultramarine is commonly used in eyeshadow palettes and eyeliners to create dramatic and captivating looks. Its deep blue hue can enhance the natural color of the eyes and add depth to makeup designs. Often paired with shimmery or metallic accents, Ultramarine allows for both subtle and bold statements. For instance, it can be used as a base color for a smoky eye look, blended with lighter blues and silvers for a multi-dimensional effect. Furthermore, the intense pigment provides long-lasting color and can be used on a variety of skin tones.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Ultramarine can be incorporated into various aspects of a space to evoke a sense of tranquility and elegance. It works well as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative accessories. For example, a living room could feature an Ultramarine accent wall paired with neutral-colored furniture and gold accents. It could also be used for throw pillows or blankets to add a pop of color to a more understated space. The deep, rich hue can create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere, especially when combined with natural light and complementary textures.

Complementary color

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