Tortie is an abbreviation for tortoiseshell because their pattern resembles the shell of a tortoise. The coat of the tortie ragdoll cat has a distinct pattern variation and looks similar to a calico cat. Not one tortie is the same; each has a distinct marking pattern.
Ragdoll cats come in various colors: seal, white, orange, chocolate, black, blue, lilac, red, and cream. The torties are very unique ragdolls because each often has multiple colors. The tortie variation appears in several ways, with oranges, browns, and creams mixed into these more standard colors. The tortoiseshell mottling usually appears on the head, paws, ears, and tail.
In folklore, tortie cats are believed to bring good luck. Specifically in Ireland, the United States, and Japan, these cats are viewed favorably.