Ultramarine
About Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hex code #1E00A3, is a deep blue pigment originally derived from the gemstone lapis lazuli. Its name comes from the Latin 'ultramarinus', meaning 'beyond the sea', as the pigment was imported to Europe from Asia. Known for its exceptional brilliance and lightfastness, it was highly valued by Renaissance painters and considered more precious than gold. In modern times, synthetic ultramarine is produced, making it more accessible and affordable. The color is associated with royalty, intelligence, and spirituality. Its deep hue has a calming and authoritative presence.
The color #1E00A3, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges. Its dark hue means it requires light-colored text for sufficient contrast to be readable. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for body text and 3:1 for larger text elements to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. When using this color for interactive elements like buttons or links, ensure a clear visual focus state is present, such as a contrasting border or background color change, to aid users who navigate with keyboards or assistive technologies. Moreover, avoid using #1E00A3 as the sole indicator of an action or important information; supplement it with text labels or icons to cater to users with color vision deficiencies. Careful consideration of these factors will help ensure a more inclusive and user-friendly design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers improved contrast against dark text.
A desaturated version of Ultramarine, providing a more muted and subtle appearance while remaining in the same color family.
A brighter, more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Ultramarine can be used for headers, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons to create a sense of trust and stability. Its rich color draws attention without being overly aggressive. It's important to pair it with lighter, neutral colors for text and background to ensure readability and a balanced visual hierarchy. Also consider its use in data visualization, particularly for charts and graphs, to represent key information and highlight important trends. Remember to test its contrast ratios with surrounding colors to meet accessibility guidelines.
Interior Design
In interior design, Ultramarine can be employed as an accent color in a room to add depth and sophistication. Think of a feature wall, decorative pillows, or artwork. It pairs well with neutral palettes such as grays, whites, and creams to create a calming yet luxurious atmosphere. It is also used in upholstery fabric. The color can evoke a sense of tranquility and can make a bold statement without overwhelming the space. It is best used in rooms with ample natural light to prevent the color from appearing too dark or oppressive.
Fashion
In fashion, Ultramarine can be used in clothing or accessories to add a pop of color to an outfit. Ultramarine accessories can make a bold statement. For a more subtle effect, combine it with neutral colors like black, white, or gray. This deep blue shade can also be a stylish choice for evening wear, creating an elegant and sophisticated look. It's a versatile color that can complement various skin tones and styles.