Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
The color #1A12A2, commonly known as Ultramarine, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It historically derives its name from the pigment produced by grinding lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone that was imported from overseas ('ultra mare' in Latin). This pigment was highly valued in the Middle Ages and Renaissance, often reserved for painting the robes of the Virgin Mary due to its expense and rarity. In the RGB color model, #1A12A2 consists of 10.2% red, 7.1% green, and 63.5% blue. In the CMYK model, it's composed of 84% cyan, 89% magenta, 0% yellow, and 37% black. Ultramarine is often associated with depth, stability, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for branding and design where a sense of trust and authority is desired. It evokes a sense of calm, intelligence and sophistication.
The color #1A12A2, a deep shade of ultramarine, presents certain accessibility challenges. Its dark nature means it requires careful consideration when used as a background or text color. To ensure readability, it's crucial to pair it with a light, contrasting color such as white, light yellow, or a pale shade of gray. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for body text, as specified by WCAG guidelines. For larger text or headings, a ratio of 3:1 may be acceptable. Avoid using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links without sufficient contrast, as users may struggle to identify them. Using a color contrast checker during the design process is helpful. It's also important to consider users with visual impairments who may have difficulty distinguishing between similar dark colors. Therefore, relying solely on color to convey information is not advisable; supplementing it with text or icons is better.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, ultramarine (#1A12A2) can be used as a primary color for a sophisticated and professional look. It's particularly effective for websites related to technology, finance, or education. The color evokes feelings of trust and intelligence, which can be beneficial for branding purposes. Combine with a clean, minimalist layout and ample white space to ensure readability and prevent the color from feeling overwhelming. Use sparingly as an accent color to highlight key information or calls to action. To ensure sufficient contrast, pair it with lighter colors such as a light gray or off-white for text and background elements.
Fashion
In fashion, #1A12A2 can be used for evening wear or formal attire, providing a bold and elegant statement. This shade works well in velvet, silk, or other luxurious fabrics, creating a rich and sophisticated look. Accessorizing with silver or gold can complement the color, enhancing its appeal. The color also makes a statement as an accent such as in scarves, hats or statement jewelry pieces. Ultramarine is best paired with neutral colors such as black, grey, or white, which will allow the blue tone to stand out without overpowering the outfit.
Branding
For branding, ultramarine #1A12A2 is associated with royalty, intelligence, and trust. This makes it ideal for businesses aiming to portray these qualities. Consider using it in logos, website designs, and marketing materials to establish a strong brand identity. Pairing it with complementary colors like gold or yellow can create a visually appealing and memorable brand aesthetic. In logo design, using the color in combination with modern typography can create a unique and recognizable brand.