Royal blue is a deep, rich shade of blue that has long been associated with royalty, prestige, and elegance. Throughout history, it has been reserved for the highest ranks of nobility and used to convey luxury, status, and wealth. But royal blue actually has another common name that is not quite as well known – ultramarine. In this article, we will explore the history behind royal blue, examine its relationship to ultramarine, and look at why both terms may be used interchangeably for this regal hue.
The History of Royal Blue
The association between blue and royalty dates back centuries. In medieval Europe, blue dyes were rare and expensive to produce, so the rich shades of blue became linked to wealth and status. Only royalty and high-ranking nobles could afford the luxurious fabrics dyed this rich hue. Royal blue grew particularly popular in Britain, with kings and queens donning the color to convey their sovereignty.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, lighter shades like sky blue and powder blue also emerged as popular among European royalty. But the deep, vivid royal blue remained the most prestigious shade. It was used for royal portraits, military uniforms, and royal regalia. Both Queen Victoria and King George VI wore royal blue sashes and ribbons as part of their royal vestments. This further cemented royal blue as the color of royalty in the cultural consciousness.
Royal Blue and Ultramarine
So where does ultramarine come into play? Ultramarine refers specifically to the precious blue pigment made from the semi-precious lapis lazuli stone that was used to produce the most vibrant royal blue hues. Lapis lazuli has been prized for its intense blue color since ancient times. But in the Middle Ages, European painters discovered that grinding the stone into a fine powder produces an exquisite, saturated blue pigment perfect for illuminating manuscripts and painting.
This brilliant blue pigment was called ultramarine – meaning “beyond the sea” in Latin – because lapis lazuli was only found in mines in Afghanistan. The pigment had to be imported across the sea at great expense. In fact, for centuries, ultramarine was more valuable by weight than gold. It was reserved for only the most important commissions for kings, queens, and religious figures.
The deep royal blue color that could only be achieved using the ultramarine pigment came to epitomize the luxury and status of royalty. So in many contexts, “royal blue” refers specifically to the rich ultramarine blue that was so prized by medieval nobility.
Why Are Both Terms Used?
Today, royal blue is no longer limited to the ultramarine pigment thanks to modern synthetic dyes and pigments. Any rich, deep blue shade – whether ultramarine-based or not – may be described as royal blue. So technically, the terms are not perfectly synonymous.
However, since ultramarine defined royal blue for centuries, the two names are often used interchangeably, even when referring to modern synthetic royal blues. Using the term ultramarine evokes a sense of heritage and historic prestige that many still associate strongly with royal blue.
Additionally, in certain contexts like photography and theater lighting, the name ultramarine may specify a specific vivid blue filter or gel that renders as a deep royal blue. So ultramarine has come to serve as a technical term for an intense blue with the same regal qualities as traditional royal blue, irrespective of pigment composition.
The bottom line is that ultramarine now equates visually and aesthetically with royal blue, even if the physical makeup has changed. So both terms are commonly used to describe rich, deep blues associated with status and nobility.
Modern Uses of Royal Blue and Ultramarine
Despite its history with monarchy, royal blue today extends far beyond denoting royalty. This versatile color is popular across many spheres:
| Business | Used in corporate logos and branding to convey trust, stability, and professionalism |
| Sports | Features in the uniforms and logos of many professional sports teams |
| Politics | Represented in the uniforms and branding of many political parties and campaigns |
| Technology | Seen in tech company logos like IBM to signal cutting-edge innovation |
| Fashion | A modern neutral that offers elegance and flair in apparel, shoes, and accessories |
But royal blue still appears today in settings related to its regal history. Ceremonial military and navy uniforms often feature the color. It is ubiquitous for royal events like weddings, coronations, and jubilees. And it conveys formality and sophistication in settings like galas, government, and upper-class society.
Ultimately, both royal blue and ultramarine remain an elegant, appealing color pairing that continues to be associated with luxury, style, and timeless beauty. Whether referring to historic ultramarine pigment or modern synthetic blues, these regal hues retain a rich symbolic legacy.
Noteworthy Examples of Royal Blue and Ultramarine
Royal blue or ultramarine appears widely throughout art, culture, and branding. Here are some specific places you may encounter these regal hues:
| Historic Art and Architecture | – Paintings and illuminated manuscripts featuring ultramarine blue pigment |
| National Flags | – The national flags of Antigua and Barbuda, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey, and Tuvalu |
| Sports Teams | – New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Dodgers, Duke Blue Devils |
| Brands and Company Logos | – IBM, AT&T, General Electric, Ford Motors, American Express |
| Car Colors | – The rich “Royal Blue Metallic” car color featured on various luxury vehicle models |
Wherever it appears, the eye-catching color commands attention and respect. The regal blue tones are easily recognizable and evoke an immediate association with prestige.
How to Decorate with Royal Blue and Ultramarine
Want to incorporate these dramatic blues into your own decor? Here are some tips for stylishly using royal blue and ultramarine in your space:
– Use as an accent color – Pair with neutrals like white, gray, black or tan
– Complement with metallic sheens and luxe materials like velvet or satin
– Highlight architectural details like molding or wainscoting
– Upholster a statement chair or sofa
– Add throw pillows, blankets, or area rugs
– Choose opaque shades for dining room walls or cabinets
– Layer lighter and darker blues for added depth and dimension
– Use sparingly to avoid overwhelming – a little royal blue goes a long way!
Royal blue and ultramarine offer sophistication and luxury when decorated with care. Add regal hues in moderation for a seriously stylish space.
Achieving the Royal Blue and Ultramarine Aesthetic
Few other colors convey such an elite aesthetic. To help capture the vibe of royal blue and ultramarine, keep these mood board images in mind:
| Sumptuous velvet upholstery | Gilded gold accents | Ornate picture frames |
| Luxe crown and scepter props | Elegant drapery | Opulent chandeliers |
| Navy and white stripes | Medieval tapestry details | Regal portrait settings |
These cues capture a mood that is rich, lavish, and profoundly sophisticated. Embrace touches of luxury to complement the commanding presence of royal blue and ultramarine in any space.
Conclusion
Royal blue has an undeniably regal reputation, while its close relative ultramarine refers historically to the same hue from a rare, precious pigment. Though their origins differ, these two terms evoke a similar sense of nobility, prestige, and majesty in a dramatic deep blue. From medieval robes to military uniforms, sports jerseys, and corporate logos, these commanding colors continue to represent the pinnacle of luxury and style. So whether you call it royal blue or ultramarine, this dynamic shade retains a timeless elegance fit for royalty.