THE PERSON BEHIND THE EYES

Does the colour of our eyes have a meaning and symbolism of its own, which might tell us a little about the person behind the eyes? Of course there are numerous factors that contribute to who we are. Can eye colour be a factor that reflects certain aspects of a person’s personality? There is the belief that eye colour holds a deeper meaning about a person and may literally be a window to our personalities.

Eye colour is determined by genetics and pigmentation. The pigment responsible for eye, skin and hair colour is melanin. The more melanin in the iris, the more light is absorbed, making the iris appear darker; the less melanin, the less light is absorbed, and the eyes appear lighter. No two people have the same makeup of melanin in their eyes, making each iris as unique as fingerprints.

The four most common eye colours are brown, blue, hazel and green. Almost half the world’s population has brown eyes, while less than 10% have green eyes. Less common colours include grey and amber. Although some people may appear to have black eyes, this pigmentation cannot naturally occur in the eyes and may be very dark brown eyes that appear black under certain light conditions.

BROWN EYES

Brown eyes are often associated with warmth, kindness, strength and stability, and studies have shown that brown-eyed people tend to be sociable, confident and ambitious.

People with darker eyes are seen by others as intelligent, practical and easy to talk to.

Those with light brown eyes may be more sensitive and have good communication skills.

Because they absorb more light, brown eyes provide a natural resistance to glare and ultraviolet light, which is an advantage in warm sunny climates.

BLUE EYES

Everyone had brown eyes many years ago, but a genetic mutation resulted in blue eyes, and later other coloured eyes.

Many people believe that blue-eyed individuals are highly intelligent and are passionate about making the world a better place.

Research by the University of Pittsburgh found that women with lighter coloured eyes are best known for their strength and high pain tolerance.

Common traits for people with blue eyes are cheerfulness and kindness to others.

Eyes appear blue due to a low level of melanin and scattering of light, which may indicate a reduced risk of blue-eyed people developing cataracts.

HAZEL EYES

Hazel eyes are usually a mix of brown and green and tend to change colour depending on the environment and light.

People with hazel eyes value independence and crave adventure.

They are imaginative, active and energetic, tend to take risks and are determined in the face of challenges, often coming up with out-of-the-box solutions to problems.

They are sometimes considered mysterious as they are sensitive and profound thinkers.

GREEN EYES

Green eyes are rare and are often favoured above other eye colours.

They are associated with a creative outlook, a bright vibrant personality and youthful energy, sometimes giving the impression of unpredictability.

In films and literature people with green eyes are frequently portrayed as jealous, mysterious and even devious.

GREY EYES

Sometimes believed to be a different version of blue eyes, grey eyes have a little more melanin than blue eyes, making them less sensitive to light.

Usually perceived as patient, calm and gentle, people with grey eyes can be seen as calculating and deceptive on occasion.

They tend to keep to themselves, but given the right environment, they make an impact with their leadership abilities and may go to great lengths to prove themselves to others.

AMBER EYES

Amber eyes are similar to brown eyes but are much lighter and have an orange tint to them.

Confident in who they are, people with amber eyes seldom follow the crowd.

Despite their confidence, they may be reserved in new situations but are sensitive to the feelings of the people around them, offering support and comfort when its needed.

HETEROCHROMIA

Some people may have multiple colours in their eyes, and some have eyes that are different colours, one brown and one blue being the most common combination.

Heterochromia is rare and is a sign of a unique and confident person.

Because different coloured eyes can vary, people with this condition may have traits of both colours or their personalities may be unique to them.

Our eyes can indicate our state of mind as well as the state of our health. They reflect whether we are tired, stressed, sad, happy or healthy. Every person’s eye colour is unique and, of course, no one can be described solely by their eye colour. Whatever eye colour you have, taking care of your eyes and having regular check-ups is important for continued eye health.