Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #1C0692, is a deep and intense shade of blue. Historically, ultramarine was one of the most expensive and highly prized pigments, made from ground lapis lazuli. Its name literally means 'beyond the sea', referring to the fact that the pigment was imported into Europe from mines in Asia. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, making it more accessible for various applications. This color is often associated with royalty, spirituality, and wisdom. In color psychology, deep blues like ultramarine can evoke feelings of calmness, trust, and authority. Its rich hue makes it a popular choice for designs that aim to convey a sense of sophistication and elegance. Ultramarine finds its place in a wide array of applications, ranging from digital interfaces to fine art.
The color #1C0692, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value of 3.38 means text rendered in this color on a white background will have very poor contrast, failing WCAG's AA and AAA standards for text legibility. To improve accessibility, consider using a much lighter text color like white or a very light gray. When used as a background, ensure that the foreground elements have sufficient contrast. Tools like contrast checkers are helpful to verify compliance. Also, avoid using this color alone to convey important information; always combine it with text or icons to ensure that users with color vision deficiencies can understand the content. Thoughtful consideration of contrast ratios is crucial for inclusive design when working with such a dark hue.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A lighter shade of blue that maintains some of the depth of ultramarine while offering better contrast.
- #29abe2
A more vibrant blue that provides a visually striking alternative, especially in digital applications.
- #333333
A dark gray which can function as a neutral alternative, offering good contrast with lighter elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, ultramarine can be used as an accent color to highlight specific elements or create a sense of depth and sophistication. For example, it can be used for button backgrounds, navigation bars, or as a subtle overlay on images. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with lighter colors to ensure readability and accessibility. Ultramarine evokes feelings of trust and authority, making it suitable for websites related to finance, education, or government.
Fashion
In fashion, ultramarine can be a bold and eye-catching color for clothing or accessories. A dress in this color can make a statement, while accessories like scarves or bags can add a pop of color to a neutral outfit. Ultramarine is often associated with luxury and elegance, making it a popular choice for evening wear or formal events. When incorporating ultramarine into an outfit, consider pairing it with complementary colors like gold or white for a balanced look.
Interior Design
In interior design, ultramarine can be used to create a dramatic and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be used as an accent wall color, or incorporated into furniture or decorative elements. The depth of the color can create a sense of calm and tranquility, making it suitable for bedrooms or living rooms. When using ultramarine in a room, balance it with lighter colors and natural materials to prevent it from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Gold accents can add a touch of luxury and warmth.