What does ultramarine mean?
Ultramarine is a vibrant blue pigment with a rich history dating back to ancient times. Derived from the mineral lapis lazuli, it was highly prized by artists and craftsmen for its unique color and durability. Today, ultramarine is still used in art and design to evoke a sense of luxury and sophistication. Its deep blue hue is often associated with feelings of calmness and serenity, making it a popular choice for interior design and fashion. Whether used in painting, printing, or other forms of creative expression, ultramarine is a versatile and timeless pigment that continues to inspire artists and designers around the world.
A bright blue pigment made from the mineral lapis lazuli.
"The artist used ultramarine to paint the sky in her latest masterpiece."
A deep blue color resembling this pigment.
"The designer chose ultramarine for the company's logo because of its association with luxury and sophistication."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of ultramarine
The word 'ultramarine' comes from the Latin 'ultramarinus,' meaning 'beyond the sea.' This refers to the fact that lapis lazuli, the mineral from which the pigment is derived, was imported from distant lands across the Mediterranean. The use of ultramarine as a pigment dates back to ancient Egypt and Greece, where it was highly valued for its unique color and durability.
Usage notes
Ultramarine is often used in formal or high-end contexts to evoke a sense of luxury and sophistication. It is commonly used in art, design, and fashion to create a sense of calmness and serenity. In some cases, ultramarine may be used to represent the sky or the ocean in a painting or other form of creative expression.