That's true, the factory doesn't like to send out color rings because people don't use them properly. Many times they're not in the right sunlight (natural sunlight) and they get the color wrong. The factory prefers a hair sample. If you've sent one in over the last year your fine--you don't need to send it again. However, if it's been over a year it's a good idea to send it a new sample.
Regards,
John