Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #200497, is a deep blue pigment originally derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli. Its name comes from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea,' as the pigment was imported to Europe from Asia. Historically, ultramarine was highly prized and expensive, often reserved for important figures and religious iconography in paintings. Today, synthetic ultramarine is readily available, making it a more accessible and widely used color. It is characterized by its rich, vibrant blue hue with a slight reddish undertone. In color theory, ultramarine is considered a cool color, evoking feelings of calmness, stability, and depth. It is often associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality.
The color #200497, a deep ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance of approximately 4.6% necessitates careful consideration for text and interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, to ensure readability and usability, any text displayed in this color against a white background (or vice versa) would fail the contrast ratio requirements for both normal (4.5:1) and large (3:1) text. Therefore, pairing it with very light colors like white is not recommended. A lighter shade of yellow or a pastel color could provide better contrast. When used for interactive elements, sufficient visual cues beyond just color should be provided to ensure that users with color vision deficiencies can still understand the element's state and purpose. Use with caution and always verify contrast ratios.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Header Accent
Ultramarine, with its historical significance in art, finds modern application in website headers to evoke a sense of tradition and sophistication. Its deep hue creates a strong focal point, particularly when used sparingly against lighter background elements. Careful attention must be paid to contrast ratios to ensure readability of text overlaid on the header. The color can be effectively used to highlight key calls to action, drawing the user's attention to important navigation elements. Furthermore, its rich tone can serve as a consistent brand color, reinforcing brand identity and creating a cohesive visual experience throughout the website.
Beauty Product Website Design
Ultramarine, reminiscent of luxury cosmetics packaging, can be implemented in the design of beauty product websites to convey elegance and sophistication. The color's association with high-end brands enhances the perceived value of the products. It is particularly effective when combined with minimalist layouts and clean typography. The use of ultramarine in product photography and promotional materials further strengthens the brand's visual identity. However, it's important to ensure that the color complements the actual product shades and doesn't create a misleading impression.
Interior Design Accent
In the realm of interior design, #200497 (Ultramarine) can be used as an accent color to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. Consider using it for a statement wall in a living room or bedroom, paired with neutral tones like beige or light gray. The rich blue hue adds depth and visual interest without being overwhelming. Ultramarine also works well in smaller decorative elements like throw pillows, artwork, or vases. When using this color in a room, ensure there is ample natural light or strategically placed lighting fixtures to prevent the space from feeling too dark.