Ultramarine
General Information about Ultramarine
Ultramarine, represented by the hexadecimal color code #210497, is a deep, vivid blue pigment originally derived from the mineral lapis lazuli. Highly prized for its intense color, Ultramarine was historically more expensive than gold and reserved for use in important works of art, particularly during the Renaissance period. Today, synthetic versions of Ultramarine are widely available, making it an accessible and versatile color in various applications. The color is created by mixing sodium aluminum silicate with sulfur, resulting in its distinctive hue. In the RGB color model, #210497 is composed of 12.94% red, 1.57% green, and 59.22% blue. It is associated with feelings of royalty, wisdom, and tranquility. Ultramarine continues to be used extensively in paints, cosmetics, and other industries where a rich, stable blue color is required.
The color #210497, also known as Ultramarine, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its dark hue results in low contrast against lighter backgrounds, potentially making text and interactive elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. To improve accessibility, consider pairing Ultramarine with very light colors like #FFFFFF or #F0F0F0 to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Additionally, avoid using Ultramarine as the sole indicator for interactive elements; supplement it with clear labels or icons. Providing alternative high-contrast themes enhances the user experience for individuals with varying visual needs, adhering to inclusive design principles. Testing with accessibility tools can further validate color choices and identify potential issues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to specific elements on a page.
A neutral dark color that offers good contrast with lighter text and backgrounds, suitable for body text and other content-heavy sections.
Applications
Website Design
Ultramarine is an excellent choice for crafting a sophisticated and professional website design. Its deep blue tone evokes feelings of trust and reliability, making it suitable for businesses in finance, technology, and consulting. Using Ultramarine for headings, navigation menus, and key call-to-action buttons can create a visually appealing and engaging user experience. Complementing it with lighter shades of blue or neutral colors will ensure readability and maintain a clean aesthetic. Be mindful of accessibility guidelines and contrast ratios when incorporating Ultramarine into your web design to accommodate users with visual impairments.
Interior Design
In the realm of interior design, Ultramarine can bring a touch of elegance and depth to any space. It works exceptionally well as an accent color in living rooms, bedrooms, or studies, creating a calming and serene atmosphere. Consider using Ultramarine for statement walls, decorative pillows, or area rugs to add a pop of color without overwhelming the room. Pairing it with natural materials like wood and stone, or lighter shades of blue and gray, can create a balanced and harmonious interior. Ultramarine's rich hue can also be used in furniture upholstery, providing a luxurious and inviting feel to seating areas.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Ultramarine can be utilized to create striking and memorable looks. This rich, deep blue works well for evening wear, formal suits, and statement pieces. It can be paired with metallics like gold or silver for a glamorous effect, or with neutral colors like white or beige for a more understated elegance. Ultramarine is also a popular choice for accessories such as scarves, handbags, and shoes, adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit. When using Ultramarine in fashion, consider the fabric and texture; velvet and silk can enhance the color's depth and richness, while cotton and linen offer a more casual feel.