Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine (#1B03B0)
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1B03B0, is a deep blue pigment originally derived from the precious stone lapis lazuli. Its name literally means 'beyond the sea,' reflecting its historical origins as a pigment imported into Europe from mines in Asia. Renowned for its intense color and lightfastness, Ultramarine has been highly valued by artists throughout history, particularly during the Renaissance. Its chemical composition consists of a complex sodium aluminosilicate with sulfur, contributing to its unique hue. Modern synthetic Ultramarine, also known as French Ultramarine, is produced through a relatively inexpensive process, making it more accessible for various applications beyond fine art. Today, Ultramarine is utilized in paints, plastics, cosmetics, and even laundry detergents to impart a vibrant blue shade.
The hex color #1B03B0, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against lighter backgrounds, making text and interactive elements difficult to discern. To ensure inclusivity, it's crucial to pair this color with very light shades like white or pale yellow to achieve a contrast ratio that meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. Avoid using #1B03B0 for critical elements such as links, buttons, or form fields unless sufficient contrast is provided. Furthermore, consider offering alternative color schemes that allow users to customize the display according to their individual needs. Providing clear visual cues and labels is essential when using this color to enhance usability for all users, regardless of their visual abilities. Thoughtful color choices can significantly improve the overall user experience and accessibility of a website or application.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Ultramarine (#1B03B0) can be used sparingly as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements or create a sense of depth. It can be effective in headers, banners, or as a background for call-to-action buttons, provided that sufficient contrast is maintained with the text. However, due to its dark nature, it should not be used as the primary background color or for large blocks of text. In data visualization, Ultramarine can represent a specific category or data set, but care should be taken to ensure it is distinguishable from other colors used in the chart. The key is to use it strategically to enhance the overall aesthetic and functionality of the website or application.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a sophisticated and dramatic atmosphere. It works well as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, especially when paired with lighter neutrals like white, gray, or beige. It can also be incorporated through furniture, such as velvet sofas or upholstered chairs, to add a touch of luxury. When using Ultramarine in interior design, it's important to balance it with lighter colors and textures to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Accessories like gold or silver can also complement this color and add a touch of elegance.
Fashion Accent
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used to create bold and eye-catching outfits. It can be worn as a solid color for dresses, suits, or coats, or it can be incorporated as an accent color in accessories like scarves, handbags, or shoes. It pairs well with other bold colors like red, yellow, or green, as well as with neutrals like black, white, and gray. Ultramarine is a versatile color that can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions. When wearing Ultramarine, it's important to consider the overall look and ensure that it complements your skin tone and personal style.