Understanding Eye Color Rarity: Which Colors Are the Rarest?

Ever wondered why your eyes are a specific shade? Each eye color, from common shades like brown and blue to rare hues like violet and amber, has its unique charm. Nonetheless, many people wish to have rare eye colors for a stunning gaze.

We explain how eye colors develop via a complex interplay of genetics and ways in which you can change your eye color safely.

Genetics behind eye color

The amount and type of melanin determine eye color in the iris. Melanin is a pigment produced by cells called melanocytes, which are located in the iris and other parts of the body.

It plays a crucial role in determining the color of our eyes, skin, and hair. The genetic variations that control melanin production and distribution lead to the wide range of eye colors we see today.

Generally, the more melanin present, the darker the eye color.

What is the most common eye color?

The most common eye color worldwide is brown, accounting for over 50% of the global population. This dominance stems from a higher concentration of melanin in the iris, which is genetically more common. Other common eye colors are blue and hazel.

Dark brown eye color rarity

Brown eyes are very common. They can be seen across various ethnicities. However, while they are widespread, variations of brown exist.

They are often characterized by warm, earthy tones ranging from deep chocolate to lighter chestnut shades. Dark brown eyes are most common, with lighter shades becoming less frequent. Brown contact lenses can replicate these natural tones effectively.

Blue eye color rarity

Blue eyes are prevalent, mostly in people of European descent. They come in shades that resemble the sky or ocean, ranging from light blue to deep azure.

Blue eyes, while less frequent than brown, are still quite common, with approximately 8-10% of the global population having this eye color.

Blue contact lenses can effectively mimic these sparkling eye shades.

Hazel eye color rarity

Hazel eyes are also common but less so than pure brown or blue eyes. They are a captivating blend of brown and green, a unique genetic quirk.

They often showcase a green or gold center with a brown outer ring, creating a mesmerizing effect. Those seeking this unique hue may achieve it with hazel contact lenses.

List of eye color rarity

Now, let's get to the more interesting colors. Here’s a list of the rarest eye colors and their rarity percentage:

Violet eye color rarity

Violet eyes are extremely rare, with a prevalence of 1 to 3%. They are usually a result of a specific form of albinism, a genetic condition affecting melanin production.

The iris lacks pigment, allowing light to reflect off blood vessels behind the eye, resulting in a violet appearance.

For those wanting to achieve this unique eye color, violet contact lenses are a great option.

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Red eye color rarity

Similar to violet eyes, red eyes equally have a rare occurrence of 1 to 3% and can occur in albinism.

In very rare cases, the complete absence of melanin allows light to reflect directly off blood vessels, creating a red color.

With a red contact lens, you will be able to replicate this uncommon eye color.

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Green eye color rarity

Green eyes often envied for their emerald brilliance, are caused by low melanin levels in the stroma.

This allows blue light to disperse and mix with yellowish pigments (lipochrome) to create a green color.

Green eyes are considered uncommon, affecting roughly 2% of the global population. To achieve this enthralling hue, consider wearing a pair of green contact lenses.

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Grey eye color rarity

Grey eyes, with their cool, steely tones, are another result of low melanin in the stroma.

However, unlike blue eyes, they may also have a higher concentration of collagen fibers that contribute to light scattering, creating a grey appearance. Less than 1% of the world's population has grey eyes, making them exceptionally rare.

A pair of grey lenses would help you recreate this uncommon eye color.

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Teal eye color rarity

Teal eyes, a captivating mix of blue and green, are a result of low melanin combined with the dispersion of light.

This unique shade is extraordinarily rare, often appearing as a blend of vibrant blue and green hues, creating a striking and vivid look. Teal eyes are exceedingly uncommon, with less than 1% of the world's population possessing this unique eye color.

Consider using teal contact lenses to achieve this vibrant hue.

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Pink eye color rarity

Pink eyes, an extremely rare eye color, are typically caused by albinism, in which the lack of melanin reveals the blood vessels within the eyes. This is a condition that occurs in less than 1% of the population.

This unique color can range from pale pink to a deeper reddish pink, creating a striking and unusual appearance.

For a truly rare look, pink contact lenses are an excellent option.

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Black eye color rarity

True black eyes, often mistaken for very dark brown, do not naturally exist.

What appears as black is usually just a very deep brown caused by an abundance of melanin, giving the eyes a dark, almost black look. Globally, less than 1% of the population naturally has very dark brown or "black" eyes, showcasing their rarity.

However, you can replicate this unique and dramatic color with black contact lenses.

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Yellow eye color rarity

Yellow eyes, extremely rare in humans, are usually associated with a higher concentration of the pigment lipochrome.

This unusual color can appear as a warm, golden yellow, creating an eye-catching and exotic appearance.

For those desiring this striking shade, yellow contact lenses are an excellent choice, reflecting their rarity, with less than 1% of the global population naturally possessing yellow eyes.

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Can you change your eye color?

Yes, eye color can be changed through surgical and non-surgical methods. For instance, via iris implants or contact lenses and laser techniques. However, one of the safest way to change your eye color is by using colored contact lenses.

Rare eye color contacts

Rare-colored contact lenses are perfect for various occasions:

Fashion and cosplay

Enhance your costume or make a bold fashion statement with rare-colored lenses.

Whether you're dressing up as a character these ideas on cosplay lenses can elevate your look.

Seasonal and themed looks

Colored lenses can enhance your look for different seasons or themed events.

For Halloween, transform your eyes to match your spooky costume with ideas on a range of Halloween lenses.

They are also great for themed parties and festivals, helping you stand out and complete your look.

FAQs

Why are green eyes so rare?

Green eyes are rare because they require specific genetic mutations. The rarity is also due to the complex interplay of multiple genes controlling eye color, making the combination of green eyes less common.

Do purple eyes exist?

Purple eyes exist, though they are extremely rare. They can result from specific genetic conditions or albinism. Genetic mutations can also cause light scattering to appear purple in some individuals. Purple and violet are interchangeable terms used to describe this uniquely rare eye color.

What is the rarest eye colour in history?

Violet or purple eyes are considered the rarest in history. Historical references are scarce, and there are very few documented cases, making this eye color exceptionally uncommon and unique.