Natural eye colors are the range of colors the iris can display, resulting from variations in the amount and type of pigment present. The iris, the colored part of the eye, is classified into a distinct set of colors.
Common Iris Colors
The iris can generally be classified into the following six main colors, based on the pigment present:
| Eye Color | Description |
|---|---|
| Amber | Solid golden or copper color, lacking the flecks of blue or green found in hazel eyes. |
| Blue | Characterized by a low level of pigment in the iris. |
| Brown | A common eye color with significant amounts of pigment. |
| Gray | A color that may appear light or dark depending on the amount of melanin. |
| Green | A less common color with a specific pigment profile. |
| Hazel | A mix of green and brown with potential flecks of blue. |
| Red | Rare, it is typically seen in individuals with albinism. |
Key Differences
- Amber vs. Hazel: Amber eyes are a solid gold or copper, whereas hazel eyes typically exhibit a mix of green and brown, often with blue flecks.
- Blue Eyes: Blue eyes result from a low concentration of pigment within the iris.
Influencing Factors
Eye color is primarily determined by genetics, specifically by the genes that affect the production, transportation, and storage of melanin in the iris. It's a complex trait with multiple genes playing a role, resulting in the variety of eye colors seen in people.
