Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine (#1F0BA9)
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #1F0BA9, is a deep, vivid shade of blue. Historically, Ultramarine was derived from the precious gemstone lapis lazuli, making it a highly prized pigment, especially in Renaissance paintings. The name 'Ultramarine' literally means 'beyond the sea,' referring to its origin from across the sea from Europe. Chemically, it's a complex sodium aluminum silicate with sulfur. Today, synthetic versions are widely available, offering consistent color at a lower cost. In color psychology, Ultramarine is often associated with tranquility, depth, and intelligence. It evokes feelings of calmness and serenity, while also suggesting wisdom and sophistication. Its usage in design and art can add a touch of elegance and formality. The RGB values for Ultramarine are R:31, G:11, B:169, placing it firmly in the blue color spectrum.
The color #1F0BA9, also known as Ultramarine, presents some accessibility challenges due to its relatively low luminance. When used as text on a white background, it may not meet the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) contrast ratio requirements for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Therefore, to enhance accessibility, it's advisable to pair #1F0BA9 with lighter background colors or use it for larger text elements. For smaller text, consider using a lighter shade of blue or a completely different, higher-contrast color to ensure readability for all users. When using this color for interactive elements like buttons, ensure sufficient visual cues are provided to indicate interactivity and focus states, adhering to accessibility best practices.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast on white backgrounds, improving readability and accessibility.
A darker blue, which is good in combination with #1F0BA9 as it provides enough contrast to still be readable and keeps the blue-ish hue.
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention and create visual interest.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Ultramarine (#1F0BA9) can serve as an excellent accent color for headings, buttons, and interactive elements. Its rich hue draws attention and adds a touch of sophistication. However, due to its relatively low contrast, it's best used sparingly for text, especially smaller fonts. Combining it with lighter backgrounds or complementary colors can enhance readability and visual appeal. For example, consider using it for button backgrounds with white or very light text to make them stand out. Furthermore, Ultramarine can create depth and visual hierarchy in website layouts, making it a valuable asset for creating engaging user experiences.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It's particularly effective in bedrooms or studies, where a sense of tranquility is desired. The color can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative accessories such as pillows and curtains. When used as a wall color, it's best paired with lighter trim and furnishings to prevent the room from feeling too dark. Accenting with metallic elements like gold or silver can elevate the color's richness and create a luxurious feel. In smaller doses, Ultramarine can be used to add pops of color to neutral spaces, such as through artwork or statement pieces.
Fashion Accent
Ultramarine (#1F0BA9) can be a striking choice in fashion, particularly for evening wear or statement pieces. A dress or suit in this color can exude confidence and sophistication. When incorporating Ultramarine into an outfit, consider balancing it with neutral tones like black, white, or gray. Accessorizing with metallic jewelry or shoes can enhance the color's vibrancy. For more casual looks, Ultramarine can be used in smaller doses, such as in a scarf, handbag, or pair of shoes. It can also be paired with denim for a chic, everyday style. Because it is not a naturally occuring skin-tone, it should not be applied to clothes where skin is rendered, to avoid confusion.