Merle, Tri and Every Australian Shepherd Color

One of the most captivating aspects of the Australian Shepherd is their incredible variety of coat colors and patterns, which can also be incredibly confusing for new owners or those just admiring these stunning dogs. It’s easy to get lost in the terminology – merle, tri, bi, solid – and wonder what it all means for a dog's health, temperament, or even just what they'll look like as adults. This guide will walk you through every beautiful shade and intricate pattern, helping you understand the genetics, the breed standard, and what to appreciate about each unique Aussie coat.

Understanding the Australian Shepherd Color Palette

Stepping into the world of Australian Shepherd colors can feel a bit like trying to solve a puzzle. You see these dogs with their striking patterns, vibrant eye colors, and often assume it's simply a matter of "blue merle" or "black tri." But there's so much more nuance to it, and understanding the core colors is the first step in appreciating the true artistry of Aussie genetics. It’s not just about what meets the eye; it's about the genes at play, the breed standard, and the subtle variations that make each Australian Shepherd truly unique.

The Core Four: Black, Red, Blue Merle, and Red Merle

At the heart of every Australian Shepherd's coat lies one of two base colors: black or red. These aren't just solid colors; they are the fundamental pigments that dictate how all other patterns and markings will appear. Think of them as the primary colors on a painter's palette. From these two foundational hues, everything else blossoms. The merle gene then acts upon these base colors, creating the distinct marbled or mottled patterns that Aussies are so famous for.

• Black: A deep, rich black is a classic and stunning base. When an Aussie is black, it means they carry the dominant gene for black pigment. This black can be solid, or it can be combined with copper and white markings to create a "black tri" or "black bi." Many people adore the intense contrast of a black coat with bright white and warm copper points.
• Red: The red in Australian Shepherds can range from a deep liver color, almost chocolatey, to a lighter cinnamon or even a golden hue. This is the recessive base color. A red Aussie needs to inherit the red gene from both parents. Just like black, red can appear as a solid color, or it can be part of a "red tri" or "red bi" pattern, featuring lighter copper and white.
• Blue Merle: This is perhaps the most iconic Australian Shepherd color, truly a showstopper. A blue merle Aussie has a black base coat, but the merle gene dilutes random sections of that black to a silvery-gray, creating a patchwork effect. You'll see splashes of darker black interspersed with lighter gray, sometimes with white and copper markings too. The effect is often described as a "galaxy" or "marbled" appearance, and no two blue merle patterns are exactly alike. It's truly a genetic masterpiece.
• Red Merle: Similar to blue merle, the red merle pattern applies the merle gene to a red base coat. This results in patches of a darker, richer red mixed with lighter, often cream or buff-colored, diluted red areas. The effect is reminiscent of an autumn landscape, with warm, earthy tones. Red merle can also come with white and copper markings. Just like blue merles, the patterns are incredibly varied and individual. If you want to dive deeper into how these two merle types compare, you might find our article Blue Merle Against Red Merle Australian Shepherds really helpful.

Why Genetics Make It So Complex

The beauty and complexity of Australian Shepherd coats aren't just skin deep; they're woven into their very DNA. Understanding the basic genetics helps explain why you see such a wide array of colors and patterns, and why certain combinations are either rare or, in some cases, undesirable from a health perspective. It's a fascinating subject that goes beyond simple inheritance.

The primary genes at play are those for base color (black vs. red) and the merle gene. The merle gene, often denoted as 'M', is an incompletely dominant gene. This means that a single copy (Mm) will produce the merle pattern, but two copies (MM) can lead to serious health issues, which we'll discuss later. A non-merle dog would be 'mm'. Then you have the genes for white markings and copper points, all interacting to create the final look. It’s a bit like a genetic lottery, with each parent contributing their alleles to create a unique combination in each puppy. This is why even within the same litter, you can see pups of vastly different colors and patterns, making the anticipation of a new litter incredibly exciting for breeders and prospective owners alike. It's a reminder that beneath the stunning exterior is a complex biological blueprint.

Deciphering the Merle Patterns

The merle pattern is arguably the hallmark of the Australian Shepherd breed, setting them apart with their strikingly mottled coats. It's what often draws people in, creating that distinctive "painted" look that is so captivating. However, "merle" isn't just one thing; it's a genetic modifier that works on a base color, creating two primary variations, each with its own incredible beauty and range of expression. Getting to grips with merle helps you appreciate the depth of Aussie genetics and the incredible variety you can find.

Blue Merle: A Galaxy of Color

When you picture an Australian Shepherd, often the first image that comes to mind is a blue merle. It's a truly spectacular coat, resembling a swirling galaxy or a mosaic of blues and grays, flecked with darker black and often accented with crisp white and warm copper points. The blue merle pattern occurs when the merle gene acts upon a black base coat. What happens is that patches of the black pigment are randomly diluted to a lighter shade, typically a soft silver or medium gray.

No two blue merles are exactly alike; the distribution and size of the diluted patches vary immensely from dog to dog, even within the same litter. Some might have large, distinct black patches on a gray background, while others could display a fine, intricate speckling. The contrast between the dark and light areas is what gives the blue merle its dynamic and eye-catching appearance. Often, these dogs also exhibit striking blue eyes, or even "split eyes" where one eye is blue and the other brown, adding another layer of unique charm. You can easily find grooming supplies on sites like Chewy that cater to maintaining these beautiful, often dense, coats, ensuring their patterns stay vibrant and clean.

Red Merle: Autumn Hues and Unique Shades

While blue merle might be the most commonly recognized, the red merle is equally breathtaking, offering a warm and inviting alternative. The red merle pattern arises when the merle gene acts on a red base coat. Just as with blue merles, the merle gene dilutes random sections of the red pigment, creating patches of rich, dark red interspersed with lighter, often creamy or buff-colored, diluted red areas. The overall effect is reminiscent of autumn leaves or a shifting desert landscape.

The shades of red in a red merle can vary significantly, from deep, almost chocolatey liver reds to lighter, almost apricot tones. This variation makes each red merle dog truly unique, with a palette of warm colors that stand out. They often have amber, green, or even striking blue eyes, complementing their warm coats. Red merles also typically have liver-colored nose and paw pad pigment, which harmonizes beautifully with their coat tones. For a more detailed breakdown of how this dilution works, check out The Merle Gene and How It Dilutes Aussie Coat.

The Classic Tricolor and Bi-color Combinations

While the merle pattern often steals the show, the Australian Shepherd also comes in stunning solid and "tri" (tricolor) or "bi" (bicolor) variations. These coats, lacking the merle dilution, showcase the pure base colors in their full glory, often accented by striking white and rich copper markings. There's a timeless elegance to these classic patterns, proving that an Aussie doesn't need merle to be absolutely captivating. They demonstrate the fundamental beauty of the breed's coloring, revealing the core pigments that underlie all the more complex patterns.

Black Tri: The Striking Standard

The Black Tricolor, often simply called "Black Tri," is one of the foundational Australian Shepherd colors and is widely admired for its sharp contrast and classic appeal. A black tri Aussie has a solid black base coat, which is then dramatically accented by crisp white markings and warm copper (tan) points.

Imagine a dog with a deep, shiny black body, a perfect white blaze running up its face, a full white collar around its neck, and white "socks" on its paws. Then, to complete the picture, you'll see rich copper markings on their cheeks, over their eyes (often called "eyebrows"), on their chest, and around their legs. This combination creates a striking and balanced appearance that breeders and enthusiasts cherish. The white markings are typically confined to the muzzle, blaze, neck, chest, belly, and legs, while the copper points add a touch of warmth and definition. These dogs exude confidence and presence, their bold markings making them instantly recognizable. If you're looking for more specific details on this classic look, you'll love our post on Black Tricolor Australian Shepherds.

Red Tri: Warmth and Contrast

Just as striking as the black tri, the Red Tricolor (Red Tri) offers a beautiful alternative with a warmer, often softer, aesthetic. A red tri Australian Shepherd has a solid red base coat, which can range in shade from a deep, rich liver to a lighter, more cinnamon or even golden red. This red base is then highlighted with the same white markings and copper (tan) points seen in the black tri.

The white markings will appear in the same areas – muzzle, blaze, collar, chest, belly, and legs – but against the red coat, they offer a slightly softer contrast. The copper points, which will be a lighter shade of tan than those on a black tri, beautifully complement the red base, creating a harmonious and cohesive look. Many people find the red tri's overall appearance to be incredibly inviting and soulful. They have a certain rustic charm that truly captures the spirit of the breed.

Solid Colors: Less Common, Still Beautiful

While less common than merles or tricolors, Australian Shepherds can also come in solid colors: solid black or solid red. These dogs technically exist, but the breed standard generally prefers the presence of white markings and/or copper points. A truly solid Aussie would have no white and no copper, making them quite rare. More often, when people refer to a "solid" Aussie, they might mean a bi-color (black and white, or red and white) or a tri-color with minimal white and copper.

• Black Bi: A black bi-color Australian Shepherd has a black base coat with white markings, but no copper points. These dogs are striking in their simplicity, often presenting a stark, elegant contrast of black and white.
• Red Bi: Similarly, a red bi-color Aussie has a red base coat with white markings, but no copper. The combination of warm red and bright white is very appealing, creating a gentle yet distinct appearance.

While the breed standard often favors the additional depth of tri-colors, there is no denying the beauty of a bi-color or a truly solid-colored Australian Shepherd. Every Aussie, regardless of the intricacy of its coat pattern, carries the same wonderful traits and spirit.

White Markings and Their Importance

White markings are an integral part of the Australian Shepherd's classic appearance. They frame the face, accent the movement, and contribute significantly to the breed's overall visual appeal. However, not all white markings are created equal, and the location and amount of white can be quite important, not just for aesthetics but sometimes for health considerations. Understanding the nuances of white is key to appreciating the breed standard and responsible breeding practices.

Acceptable White: Chest, Legs, and Collar

The breed standard for Australian Shepherds clearly defines where white markings are acceptable and even desired. These strategically placed white areas enhance the dog's expression and outline, providing contrast to the base and merle colors.

Typically, white is permitted on the muzzle, as a blaze on the face (running between the eyes), on the chest, throat, belly, and on the legs. A partial or full white collar around the neck is also acceptable. The ideal white markings are clean, well-defined, and symmetrical, adding to the dog's striking appearance without overpowering the primary coat color. These white areas are part of what gives many Aussies their "cowboy dog" look, reminiscent of the working dogs they once were, with practical markings that helped handlers spot them in the field. They contribute to the individuality of each dog, making them instantly recognizable. You might find specialty shampoos and conditioners at stores like Chewy that are great for keeping these white areas bright and free from yellowing, especially for active dogs.

Excessive White: More Than Just Aesthetics

While some white is desired, "excessive white" is a term used in the breed standard to describe white markings that extend beyond the acceptable areas, particularly on the head and body. This isn't just about personal preference or showing; excessive white can sometimes be an indicator of underlying genetic issues, especially when linked to the merle gene.

White markings that extend too far up the sides of the body, or cover too much of the face beyond the muzzle and blaze, are considered excessive. The most concerning aspect of excessive white, however, is when it appears on the ears, or fully surrounds the eyes, particularly in merle dogs. This can be associated with "double merle" genetics, where two copies of the merle gene are present (MM). Double merles often have large areas of unpigmented white fur, especially on their faces, which can lead to serious health problems such as deafness and blindness. While a beautiful pattern of white is a hallmark, too much white, especially in these critical areas, serves as a caution flag, reminding us of the genetic sensitivities inherent in the merle gene. This is a topic thoroughly explored in Whether a Merle Aussie Sunburns More Easily, which also touches on the practical care needed for dogs with less pigment.

Understanding White Markings and Health

It's crucial to distinguish between cosmetically undesirable white markings and those that are genetically problematic. White on the body in a non-merle dog is generally just a cosmetic trait, even if it's considered "excessive" by the standard. However, excessive white on the face and ears of a merle dog is a serious warning sign.

The genes that produce white markings are separate from the merle gene, but they can interact. In double merles, the merle gene itself, when present in two copies, can interfere with pigment development not only in the coat but also in the eyes and inner ears. This is why a double merle often presents with large amounts of white, blue eyes, and may be deaf, blind, or both. Responsible breeders meticulously avoid merle-to-merle breedings precisely to prevent the birth of these "lethal white" puppies. It’s a stark reminder that while the aesthetic beauty of an Australian Shepherd is striking, the health and welfare of the dog must always come first.

Eye and Nose Pigmentation: Beyond the Coat

The captivating qualities of an Australian Shepherd aren't limited to their glorious coats. Their eyes and noses add another layer of allure and individuality, often presenting a dazzling array of colors and patterns that perfectly complement their fur. These details are not just superficial; they are often genetically linked to coat color and are also important indicators within the breed standard.

The Kaleidoscope of Aussie Eye Colors

Australian Shepherds are famous for their incredibly diverse and often mesmerizing eye colors. It's truly a kaleidoscope, and you might see several different shades even within the same litter. This variety is one of the most charming and unique characteristics of the breed.

• Blue Eyes: Many Aussies, particularly merles, have brilliant blue eyes. These can range from a light sky blue to a deep, intense sapphire. Sometimes, a blue eye might have flecks or swirls of another color, adding to its mystique.
• Amber/Brown Eyes: Brown eyes are also very common and can range from a light amber or hazel to a deep, rich chocolate brown. These eyes often give a warm, intelligent, and soulful expression.
• Green Eyes: Less common but equally stunning, green eyes can sometimes be seen, often appearing as a mix between blue and amber, especially in red-based Aussies.
• Marbled or "Split" Eyes: This is where things get truly interesting! An Aussie might have "marbled" eyes, where two or more colors are distinctly swirled or flecked within a single iris. Even more striking are "split" or "heterochromatic" eyes, where one eye is a completely different color from the other (e.g., one blue and one brown). This is a perfectly acceptable and highly prized trait in the breed, adding to their unique charm.
• Parti-colored Eyes: You might also see "parti-colored" eyes, where one eye is split into distinct halves of different colors, or has a large block of a contrasting color.

The genetics behind these eye colors are fascinating and often linked to the merle gene; merle dogs are more likely to have blue or parti-colored eyes due to the same dilution effects on pigment. For a deeper dive into these captivating peepers, be sure to read Australian Shepherd Eye Colors and Split Eyes.

Nose and Lip Pigmentation: Crucial Details

Beyond the eyes, the pigmentation of an Australian Shepherd's nose, lips, and eye rims are also important considerations, both aesthetically and for the breed standard. These areas should be fully pigmented, matching the dog's base coat color.

• Black Noses/Lips: For black, black bi, black tri, and blue merle Australian Shepherds, the nose, lips, and eye rims should be solidly black. This provides a sharp, defined appearance against their darker coats. Any lack of pigment in these areas, often referred to as a "butterfly nose" (where parts of the nose are pink), is generally considered a fault in the show ring, though it's typically a cosmetic issue unless extensive.
• Liver/Brown Noses/Lips: For red, red bi, and red merle Australian Shepherds, the nose, lips, and eye rims should be a rich liver or brown color, perfectly complementing their red-based coats. Just like with black-based Aussies, a "butterfly nose" with pink areas is a fault.

Full pigmentation in these areas is a sign of good health and proper genetic expression. While a minor butterfly nose might just be a cosmetic quirk in a pet, breeders strive for complete pigmentation to adhere to the breed standard and ensure robust health in their lines. It's another small detail that contributes to the overall magnificent picture of an Australian Shepherd.

The Standard's Take on Color and Markings

When we talk about Australian Shepherd colors, it's impossible to ignore the breed standard. This document, developed by breed clubs like the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA) and the American Kennel Club (AKC), outlines the ideal characteristics of the breed, including specific requirements for coat color and markings. While a dog's color doesn't dictate its worth as a companion, understanding the standard helps us appreciate responsible breeding practices and the historical vision for the breed. It also helps distinguish between unique traits, minor faults, and significant health indicators.

What the Breed Standard Permits (and Faults)

Both the ASCA and AKC breed standards for the Australian Shepherd are quite specific about acceptable colors and markings. They aim to preserve the distinctive look of the Aussie while also guiding breeders towards healthy and conformationally sound dogs.

The recognized base colors are black and red, which can then be expressed as solid, bi-color (with white), or tri-color (with white and copper points). Merle patterns (blue merle and red merle) are also fully accepted, acting upon these base colors. The standard also specifies the placement of white markings: they are permissible on the neck (as a partial or full collar), chest, legs, muzzle, with a blaze on the head, and on the underparts. Copper (tan) points are desired on the face (cheeks, above the eyes), on the chest, legs, and under the tail.

Where the standard gets stricter is in what it considers a "fault." A fault is a deviation from the ideal that can penalize a dog in the show ring. For instance, white markings that are too extensive on the body, extending beyond the preferred areas, are considered faults. White on the body in areas other than the neck, chest, legs, muzzle, blaze, and underparts are often noted. A "butterfly nose," meaning an unpigmented or partially pink nose in an adult dog, is also a fault. While these faults don't affect a dog's ability to be a loving family member or a working partner, they do indicate a departure from the breed's aesthetic ideal as defined by the standard. For those interested in the official definitions, exploring ASCA and the AKC Australian Shepherd Standards will provide a wealth of detail.

Understanding "Faults" Versus Health Concerns

It's really important to distinguish between a "fault" as defined by a breed standard and an actual "health concern." Sometimes, these two categories overlap, but often they are separate. A fault might be purely cosmetic, whereas a health concern directly impacts the dog's well-being.

• Cosmetic Faults: Many color-related faults are purely cosmetic. For example, a black Australian Shepherd with very minimal white markings that don't meet the standard's preference for a certain amount of white might be faulted in the show ring, but it's still a perfectly healthy dog. The same goes for an uneven blaze or copper points that are not as rich as desired. These dogs are no less wonderful as companions; they simply don't conform to every aesthetic ideal.
• Faults Linked to Health Concerns: The overlap occurs most critically with excessive white, particularly on the head, in merle dogs. While the standard faults excessive white, it's also a visual indicator that can point to a "double merle" breeding. As we discussed, double merle dogs (MM) can suffer from severe hearing and vision impairments, sometimes being completely deaf and/or blind. Here, the "fault" in appearance (excessive white) is a direct red flag for a serious health issue. Responsible breeders avoid breeding merle to merle specifically to prevent these devastating outcomes. Another example is a completely unpigmented nose (pink nose), which while a fault, can also be more prone to sunburn. Always remember that a dog's health and quality of life far outweigh any superficial adherence to a show standard.

Color Changes Over an Aussie's Life

One of the enchanting aspects of owning an Australian Shepherd is witnessing the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) transformations their coats undergo from puppyhood into their senior years. Just like humans, dogs change as they age, and their fur is often one of the most visible indicators of these shifts. It's a natural process, but understanding what to expect can ease any concerns and allow you to appreciate every stage of your Aussie's life.

Puppy Coats and Adult Transformations

The journey from a fluffy, soft Australian Shepherd puppy to a mature adult with a magnificent double coat is truly remarkable. A puppy's coat often looks quite different from what it will be in adulthood, both in texture and sometimes even in depth of color.

When you first bring home an Aussie puppy, their coat is typically softer, finer, and less dense than an adult's. The colors, especially in merles, can appear muted or less defined. A blue merle puppy might have a more uniform gray tone, with the darker black patches not as sharply contrasted as they will eventually become. Similarly, red merle puppies might have a lighter, creamier overall tone before their deeper red pigments fully develop. As they grow, usually between 6 to 18 months, their "puppy fluff" will shed out, and their coarser, denser adult double coat will start to emerge. This is when the true depth of color and the intricacy of the merle patterns really pop. The white markings become crisper, and the copper points deepen in shade. It’s a fascinating metamorphosis, and you might find yourself wondering if it's the same dog! This is why it's so important for breeders to know the genetic background, as a puppy's initial appearance isn't always the final picture.

Fading and Graying in Senior Aussies

Just as youth brings a bloom of color, old age often brings a graceful fading and silvering. Australian Shepherds are no exception, and it's completely normal for their coats to change significantly as they enter their senior years, typically starting around 7-8 years old and becoming more pronounced after 10.

One of the most common signs of aging is the appearance of graying, particularly around the muzzle, eyes, and sometimes across the forehead. This "sugar face" is a beloved characteristic of many senior dogs, adding wisdom and charm to their expressions. Beyond the face, the overall coat color can also soften or lighten. Blacks might take on a slightly duller, more charcoal hue, and reds can become less vibrant, leaning towards a faded rust or even a sandy tone. Merle patterns might become less distinct, with the contrast between the diluted and non-diluted areas mellowing out. The texture of the coat might also change, sometimes becoming a bit drier or thinner in places. These changes are a natural part of the aging process, similar to humans going gray, and are simply a testament to the many years of love and companionship your Aussie has given you. Our article, How an Australian Shepherd Coat Changes With Age, offers more insights into these natural shifts. Providing high-quality food, like those available on Chewy, formulated for senior dogs can help maintain coat health even as they age.

Responsible Breeding and Color Genetics

The stunning array of Australian Shepherd colors is a testament to complex genetics, but this beauty comes with a significant responsibility for breeders. Understanding color genetics isn't just about predicting a puppy's appearance; it's about safeguarding the health and well-being of the breed. Ethical breeding practices ensure that desirable traits are maintained while avoiding combinations that can lead to severe health problems. This is particularly true when it comes to the merle gene.

Avoiding "Designer" Colors and Unethical Breeding

In recent years, there has been a rise in demand for "designer" colors or extremely rare color combinations in many breeds, and Australian Shepherds are not immune to this trend. While novelty can be appealing, chasing after unusual colors without a deep understanding of genetics can lead to unethical breeding practices and detrimental health consequences.

"Designer" colors often emerge from uneducated breeding choices, or even deliberate crosses with other breeds to introduce new color genes, which then compromises the purity and health of the Australian Shepherd lines. Sometimes, breeders who are simply focused on marketing a "rare" color might not perform necessary health clearances or understand the genetic implications of their pairings. This can lead to puppies with compromised health, poor temperaments, or structural issues, all for the sake of an unusual coat. Responsible breeders prioritize health, temperament, and adherence to the breed standard, ensuring that any color produced is within the healthy genetic range for the Australian Shepherd. They will always be transparent about parentage and health testing, ensuring that beauty does not come at the cost of welfare.

The Dangers of Merle-to-Merle Breeding

Perhaps the most critical aspect of Australian Shepherd color genetics and responsible breeding is the absolute imperative to avoid breeding merle-to-merle. This practice, while capable of producing more merle puppies, carries devastating risks and is widely condemned by ethical breeders and breed clubs worldwide.

When two merle dogs (each carrying one copy of the merle gene, Mm) are bred together, there's a 25% chance in each puppy of inheriting two copies of the merle gene (MM). These "double merle" puppies are often born with significant health issues, primarily severe hearing and vision impairments, including complete deafness, blindness, or microphthalmia (abnormally small or undeveloped eyes). This is because the merle gene, in its homozygous form (MM), disrupts the development of pigment in the eyes and inner ears.

Double merles often present with excessive white on their faces and bodies, blue eyes, and pink noses or eyelids. They are not simply "white Aussies"; they are genetically distinct and often profoundly affected by their condition. While many double merles can live full and happy lives with dedicated owners, their care requires significant commitment and understanding. Responsible breeders utilize genetic testing to ensure they never breed two merle dogs together. It is a fundamental ethical guideline in Australian Shepherd breeding to protect the health and quality of life for the puppies. You can learn more about these critical issues in Double Merle Australian Shepherds and What Breeding Two Merles Costs and Why Merle-to-Merle Aussie Breeding Is Called Reckless. Even a "cryptic merle," which looks solid but carries the merle gene, poses a risk, making DNA testing essential as discussed in Cryptic Merle That Fools Aussie Breeders.

Australian Shepherd Coat Color Table

To help summarize the various colors and their key characteristics, here's a handy table:

Color Group	Base Color	Merle Gene Present?	Typical Eye Colors	Nose/Lip Pigmentation	Key Characteristics
Black Tri	Black	No	Brown, Amber	Black	Solid black body with white markings and copper (tan) points. Sharp contrast.
Red Tri	Red	No	Brown, Amber, Green	Liver (Brown)	Solid red body with white markings and copper (tan) points. Warmer tones.
Blue Merle	Black	Yes (Mm)	Blue, Brown, Amber, Split/Parti	Black	Patches of black and gray (diluted black) with white markings and copper points. "Galaxy" appearance.
Red Merle	Red	Yes (Mm)	Blue, Brown, Amber, Split/Parti	Liver (Brown)	Patches of dark red and light red/cream (diluted red) with white markings and copper points. "Autumn" appearance.
Black Bi	Black	No	Brown, Amber	Black	Solid black body with white markings only (no copper points).
Red Bi	Red	No	Brown, Amber, Green	Liver (Brown)	Solid red body with white markings only (no copper points).
Solid Black	Black	No	Brown, Amber	Black	Very rare to be truly solid. Black body with minimal to no white or copper.
Solid Red	Red	No	Brown, Amber, Green	Liver (Brown)	Very rare to be truly solid. Red body with minimal to no white or copper.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Laws, prices and regulations vary by location and change over time. Consult a qualified professional for guidance on your specific situation.