The Evolution of Eyeglasses

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Have you ever asked yourself when and where did eyewear, or eyeglasses frame came from? What would happen if they were not invented? What would it be like if we were not able to see text and images clearly?

The early history of glasses as an instrument in magnification is not really known, but according to research, it is believed that it started in the year 1000 and 1250. It is between these years that an English Franciscan Friar Roger Bacon, in his 1268 writing that letters could be seen larger when viewed under the half a sphere glass. He noted that it would be helpful in assisting persons with low or weak vision, especially, the elderly one.

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According to the earliest recorded evidence, eyeglasses first appeared in Italy around the year 1286. It is formed from two primitive crystal stones (convex shaped glasses). It has frames and a handle on each glass. And they were connected together with a rivet on their end. The monks and scholars were the primary users of the invention. But the inventor wanted to keep the glasses as a secret and aims to use it as a source of income instead. The monks said that the earliest source of its documentation as they had mentioned that somebody invented a great art of making eyeglasses for providing good vision.

The major factor that made the eyeglasses and eyeglasses frame as an important tool is the invention of the printing press during 1452. The availability of printed media such as books and the improving rate of literacy paved the way in making the eyeglasses known.

And from there, the evolution and enhancement of the eyeglasses continued until the 20th century. Each century has its own essential discovery in improving the designs and quality of glasses.

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The 17th Century’s greatest contribution to the betterment of eyeglasses was the invention of the temple pieces as an anchor of the glasses to the ears. And it was advertised in public during 1728. Also, Benjamin Franklin invented the bifocals.

Some other major contributions of this century include the Martin Margins, invented by Benjamin Martin. The Wig Spectacles, the eyeglasses that have longer temple pieces, specifically created for men who wear wigs. And lastly, the Scissors Spectacles, invented for those men who do not wish to wear their eyeglasses.

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The 18th Century continued to develop other designs, but it ended with fewer or lesser designs in manufacturing. This is the era wherein the eyeglasses are viewed as an indicator of old age and infirmity. Because of that, the Lorgnette was invented in 1800. These eyeglasses have a long and single handle. This point of view of people regarding eyeglasses made it less popular and worn only when needed.  Meanwhile, while the lorgnettes became popular, another inventor created a type of glasses that allowed it to be folded. It was a French manufacturer that introduces it during 1830.

The 19th Century viewed the eyeglass as an industry, which has manufacturing and distribution networks. The celebrities greatly influenced the rapid change in styles. Plastics were also introduced as a material for eyeglass making. Another contribution of this century was the invention of Pince-nez, an eyeglass without temples. Made popular by the U.S.  Presidents Teddy Roosevelt and Calvin Coolidge. A Hollywood actor made the temple spectacles as a fashion craze during his time. Also, the start of the sunglasses’ popularity is made possible by Sir William Crookes in 1913. It is capable of absorbing ultraviolet and infrared light. It was also used by pilots during World War II.

Source: www.globaleyeglasses.com

The 20th Century up to the present considers eyeglasses as part of every person’s fashion necessity. As you update your wardrobe, glasses need to be updated also. They come in counterparts nowadays. Celebrities continue to popularize different styles and sizes of eyeglasses.

There is a lot more history digging to cover about eyeglasses, but I will continue to search and update this blog for more useful information.



This Article is powered by EO-Executive Optical. Visit their website for eyeglass supplies and fashionable eye wears.   http://www.eo-executiveoptical.com/

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