The idea of someone having violet eyes seems like a concept straight out of a superhero film. Surprisingly, violet eyes aren’t exclusive to those with superpowers. While common eye colors include brown, blue, green, or hazel, spotting someone with violet eyes is indeed rare. With nearly 80% of the global population having brown eyes, less than 1% of people worldwide have been reported to possess violet eyes (via World Atlas). What makes this rich, rare color possible?
According to experts at All About Vision, our eye color is determined by the pigmentation of the iris, specifically the melanin it contains. Melanin consists of naturally occurring molecules that influence the color of our skin, eyes, and hair (via StatPearls). The more melanin present, the darker the eye color; less melanin results in a lighter shade. So, how much melanin is needed to achieve violet eyes? The answer might surprise you.
Those with albinism can have the appearance of violet eyes
As per experts at Eye Exam, a lack of pigment in the iris is required to achieve what seems like a violet eye color, a condition known as albinism. However, a lack of pigmentation is only part of the equation for violet eyes — the other component is light.
Individuals with albinism often have eyes that appear semi-transparent (via Mayo Clinic). Without pigment, the iris cannot effectively limit light entering the eye. Consequently, light enters and may reflect off the eyes’ red blood vessels, producing a violet hue.
Over the years, a phenomenon called Alexandria’s genesis has been rumored to cause purple eyes at birth or in infancy (via Medical News Today). This condition has been debunked, highlighting an important distinction: violet and purple are not the same. Educational platform BYJU’S explains that violet is a naturally occurring color, while purple is a human-made mix of red and blue with various shades. Knowing this, people with violet eyes can indeed be found, but it’s incredibly rare — so keep your eyes peeled!
Elizabeth Taylor was believed to have violet eyes
Elizabeth Taylor, the legendary actress known for her roles in “Cleopatra” and other classic films, was believed to have violet eyes (according to LiveScience). From a cosmetic standpoint, photographers often captured her wearing purple or blue eyeshadow, possibly affecting how her eye color is remembered from her photographs. Her natural eye color combined with her makeup choices may have been intentional to emphasize the violet in her irises. Dr. Norman Saffra, an ophthalmologist, told LiveScience, “There are various shades of blues and grays, with many in-between. Violet may have been her typical pigmentation.”
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), the appearance of eye color can be influenced by colors in different environments, including clothing and accessories. Lighting is another factor that can change how eye color appears. Sometimes, light and clothing work together, such as how wearing white can make eye color appear softer as it reflects light off the irises (via LiveScience). It’s possible that Elizabeth Taylor’s clothing and photography lighting combined to give her eyes a richer violet hue.
Ways to enjoy violet eyes for yourself
If you wish to experience violet eyes for yourself, colored contact lenses are an option. According to Healthline, colored contact lenses are available in both prescription and non-prescription forms. You might be surprised to learn that violet and amethyst are among the most popular colored contact lens choices on the market. However, it’s essential to research beforehand and be cautious where you buy contacts. Buying decorative lenses without a prescription or those not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) could be damaged or unclean.
Alternatively, instead of changing your eye color, you can always opt for a bold purple eyeshadow to enhance your natural eye color — just like Elizabeth Taylor. According to Byrdie, shades from eggplant to lavender work well with naturally brown, green, or hazel eyes. Using purple makeup can provide contrast to your natural eye color, making all the color tints pop.
