In the modern age, we are all familiar with eyeglasses. Not just one type of eyeglasses, but we have access to a huge variety to choose from. Have you ever wondered about the origin of spectacles as a treatment for blurred vision?
A glance into history would allow us to explore the path to a perfect vision. The hard work of brilliant inventors paved a path that led to making millions of people capable of performing daily activities without any hindrance.
The origin of glasses:
The Romans were the first to discover the use of glass to enhance their eyesight and view small texts by constructing small magnifying glasses in the shape of a sphere.
First wearable glasses:
These were found in Italy in the 13th century. The frames used were leather or wooden. Then ancient glass blown lenses were set into these frames. Development and improvements were made during the renaissance period where these glasses grew in popularity. These glasses were considered a sign of intelligence and prosperity. In the 1700s, the glasses were no more kept perched on the nose or held by the hand in front of the face. The inventor Benjamin martin developed a famous pair of these modern eyeglasses called “martin’s margins,” sold as collector’s items today.
Remarkable developments after the 1700s:
- Bifocal lens:
To increase the versatility of glasses, Benjamin franklin invented these, which permitted a person to use one glasses instead of two (for both far and nearsighted).
- Scissor spectacles:
These were pocket glasses that were foldable on a hinge like scissors and could be kept inside if someone was not fond of wearing them all the time.
Modern Innovations during and after the 1800s:
When affordable eyeglasses were accessible to the masses, as a result, of the industrial revolution, there was a trend moving towards more unique, personalized glasses that seemed classy and fashionable. Many options were offered to people making it easier to match glasses with their clothes, face shape, etc. With plastic availability, famous ancient glasses such as those held with a nose clip and no earpieces were replaced and fell quickly out of fashion as plastic could be molded into many shapes and forms.
Early sunglasses:
In the 12th century, sunglasses were invented in china but not for protection purposes. They used to help judges from hiding their eyes so their expressions would be concealed in court.
At last, plastic lenses were available after 1980. These could be made lighter and were less breakable. To date, advancements in technology are being made to produce improved glasses with protective coatings from UV light.
The history and the entire process of innovative advancements in technology have made spectacles readily available to everyone. We hope this article will be helpful for you if you were looking for the history of glasses.