Ultramarine
About Ultramarine
Ultramarine (#2001B2) is a deep blue color with a strong presence, known for its historical significance and use in fine art. The name 'Ultramarine' originates from the Latin 'ultramarinus', meaning 'beyond the sea,' as it was originally imported from mines in Afghanistan. The pigment was historically made from lapis lazuli, making it one of the most expensive and highly valued pigments. Today, synthetic ultramarine is widely available, retaining the color's characteristic brilliance at a fraction of the cost. In color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, evoking feelings of calmness, trust, and authority. Its hexadecimal value of #2001B2 indicates the combination of red, green, and blue light needed to produce this specific shade on digital displays.
The hex color #2001B2, also known as Ultramarine, presents specific accessibility considerations for web design. When using this color for text, it's essential to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. Due to its dark nature, pairing it with light colors such as white (#FFFFFF) or very pale yellow (#FFFFE0) is crucial to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. Using it for interactive elements like buttons or links requires careful consideration of focus states, where a contrasting outline or background change is necessary to indicate selection. Additionally, avoid using #2001B2 as the sole indicator of important information, as users with color vision deficiencies might struggle to distinguish it. Providing alternative visual cues such as text labels or icons can greatly improve accessibility for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design for Finance and Education
Ultramarine, with its depth and richness, can be used to create a sense of luxury and sophistication. It can be used as a background color for websites related to high-end products, financial services, or educational institutions, conveying trust and authority. It is also suitable for highlights and accents, paired with complementary colors like gold or yellow, to draw attention to important information. In UI design, it is useful in creating primary buttons or interactive elements to give prominence to key actions for a user.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Ultramarine can be used as an accent wall to create a focal point in a room. It pairs well with neutral colors such as beige, gray, or white, creating a balanced and calming atmosphere. It can also be used for upholstery, rugs, or decorative pillows to add a pop of color to a space. Consider using it in rooms where relaxation and tranquility are desired, such as bedrooms or home offices. It's important to balance this powerful color with lighter tones to avoid overwhelming the space.
Beauty and Cosmetics
Ultramarine is a favorite in cosmetic applications, especially in eye makeup. It is used in eyeshadows, eyeliners, and mascaras to enhance the color of the eyes and create a dramatic look. It can be combined with other shades of blue, purple, or silver to create different effects. This color is also popular in nail polishes, allowing for bold and expressive manicures. It can be used in lipsticks and lip glosses, though less common, to create unique and striking looks, particularly in creative or artistic contexts.