Ultramarine blue (#4166F5) stands as one of art and design's most revered colors, with a fascinating history spanning centuries. Originally derived from precious lapis lazuli stones mined in Afghanistan, this vibrant blue was once worth more than gold, making it accessible only to the wealthiest Renaissance patrons.

The name itself tells a story: "ultramarine" comes from Latin ultramarinus, meaning "beyond the sea," reflecting its exotic journey from distant mines to European art studios. Masters like Vermeer famously used it so extensively that it drove his family into debt, while Michelangelo couldn't afford it for some of his works.

In modern design, ultramarine blue sits perfectly between blue and violet on the color wheel, offering a sophisticated depth that works beautifully with complementary colors like coral, cream, and mint green. Its RGB values (65, 102, 245) create a vibrant yet professional appearance that conveys trust, serenity, and elegance.

Today's synthetic ultramarine retains all the visual impact of its precious predecessor while being accessible to every designer. Whether used in corporate branding, UI design, or artistic projects, ultramarine blue continues to command respect as the "superlative blue" – perfect for creating sophisticated color palettes that need both visual impact and timeless appeal.