Eyes come in a variety of colors, and the most common eye colors are brown, blue, hazel and green. Many factors contribute to eye color, including genetics, pigmentation levels and the amount of melanin in the iris. While beauty is subjective, some eye colors are considered more rare and unique than others. When determining the prettiest eye color, one must consider the eye color’s vibrancy, depth and prevalence worldwide.
The Most Common Eye Colors
Brown eyes are the most common eye color worldwide, with over 55% of the global population having brown eyes. Brown eyes contain large amounts of melanin, providing a rich and deep color. While brown is a warm, beautiful eye color, it is less rare than other possible eye colors.
Blue eyes contain low amounts of melanin and are a result of a genetic mutation. Approximately 8-10% of the population worldwide has blue eyes, making it a unique eye color. Blue eyes range from light icy blue to deep navy. While vibrant, blue eyes are not as deep in color as brown.
| Eye Color | Global Prevalence |
|---|---|
| Brown | 55% |
| Blue | 8-10% |
Hazel eyes shift between brown and green, containing a mix of melanin. The amount of melanin determines the lightness or darkness of the eye. Hazel eyes are very unique, containing an intriguing blend of colors. However, hazel eyes are more common than blue eyes, so they lose some rarity points.
Lastly, green eyes contain low to moderate amounts of melanin and make up 2% of the global population. The shades of green can vary from emerald to olive green. The vibrant green stands out against other eye colors.
Most Rare Eye Colors
While the most common eye colors noted above are all beautiful in their own right, the following are considered the most rare and unique:
Gray Eyes
Gray eyes contain little to no melanin. These eyes often look blue or greenish-gray in bright lighting and more gray or silver in dim lighting. Only 1-2% of the global population has gray eyes, making it one of the rarest colors. The cool, metallic sheen of gray eyes makes them distinct and striking.
Green-Hazel Eyes
While hazel on its own is rarer than brown or blue eyes, green-hazel eyes are even more unique. These eyes shift between shades of green and brown. The contrasting colors provide depth and intrigue. The rareness of this combination enhances the beauty.
Heterochromia
Heterochromia iridum is an eye condition where the eyes are different colors. For example, one eye may be blue while the other is brown. Partial heterochromia leads to a multi-colored iris in a single eye. Both forms of heterochromia are caused by uneven melanin distribution. As a very rare condition, the blend of colors can create a striking and beautiful effect.
Red or Violet Eyes
Natural red or violet eye colors do not truly exist among humans. However, certain conditions like albinism or the use of contacts can produce unnatural red/violet eyes. The extreme rarity results in an otherworldly beauty. However, there are ethical concerns regarding trying to artificially achieve this look.
Factors that Enhance Eye Beauty
Beyond just the iris color, other factors impact an eye’s beauty:
Eye Shape
The shape of the eyes greatly affects perceived beauty. Almond-shaped eyes are considered the most attractive by providing aesthetic balance to the face.
Eye Size
Larger, noticeable eyes with long lashes are considered more feminine and beautiful. However, the eyes should be proportional to other facial features.
White of the eyes
A stark white sclera against a vibrant iris provides contrast and makes the color pop. Bloodshot eyes diminish beauty.
Eyebrows
Full, natural looking eyebrows frame the eyes nicely, allowing the color to stand out.
Sparkle
Eyes that appear to sparkle and glisten add life and vibrancy. This is often enhanced by adequate hydration.
Most Beautiful Eye Colors
While everyone has their preferences, the following eye colors could be considered the most universally beautiful:
Deep Blue
The vivid, deep blue color has an inherently attractive quality. Set against white sclera, the blue pops beautifully. Deep blue (like sapphire gems) sparkles in the light which further enhances its beauty.
Green
Vibrant emerald and jade green eye colors stand out. The green evokes feelings of life, renewal and lush landscapes. When paired with dark lashes and brows, the striking green draws attention.
Gray
Light gray eyes shine like liquid silver and remind observers of moonlight. They provide a cooler, refreshing contrast against warm skin tones. The metallic sheen makes gray eyes mesmerizing.
| Most Beautiful Eye Colors |
|---|
| Deep Blue |
| Green |
| Gray |
Conclusion
While eye color preference is subjective, many would agree that the most rare and unique eye colors have a special allure about them. Vibrant blues, greens and grays that stand out from the common brown eye color appear striking and memorable. However, some of the most beautiful eyes strike the perfect balance between eye color, shape, lashes and brows. Self-confidence also allows inner beauty to shine through the eyes. Since our eyes are central to human connection, so many factors beyond just color impact the beauty conveyed through them.
