Did you know National Eyewear Day is June 6? With two days to go, start celebrating early with these fascinating facts about eyewear, as we also point out the importance of vision health and comprehensive eye exams.
Italy is where the first eyeglasses were made.
Several sources, including Wikipedia, state that the first eyeglasses were made in Central Italy in the 13th century by using quality glass spheres to magnify small print and other activities.
However, it wasn’t until 1727 that British optician Edward Scarlett created the modern style of eyeglasses with a frame that could go over the ears and nose.
Eyewear was made from natural materials.
The frames for the first eyeglasses were fashioned from tortoiseshell, wood and horn. Metal frames for spectacles were not invented until the early 19th century. Nowadays, the most popular material for eyeglass frames is plastic.
But, as sustainability becomes a focus, many eyewear brands are using natural materials again. Popular choices include Bamboo, wood and recycled materials, creating unique, eco-friendly eyewear.
Studies report that 92% of the U.S. population uses eyewear.
More eye-opening facts about eyewear include the statistics on the number of people who use some form of eyewear. More specifically, about 64%, or 168 million people, wear prescription eyewear, while 70%, or 183 million people, own non-prescription eyewear such as reading glasses.
Wearing someone else’s glasses won’t hurt your eyes.
Have you heard that wearing someone else’s glasses will hurt your eyes? This is a common myth, but truthfully, it won’t cause damage. Will it provide the best vision correction? Not likely since prescriptions vary according to individual needs.
“Glasses” isn’t the correct term.
Because glass lenses were used to correct vision early on, the term “glasses” was created. Nowadays, 99.9% of eyewear is made of durable resin, a better material than glass for corrective eyewear. But because “glasses” sounds better than “resins,” let’s stick with it!
Demo lenses serve a purpose.
Beyond acting as a visual aid to help someone see how the glasses will look on them, the clear lenses in glasses help the frames maintain their shape.
Eyewear started as a status symbol and evolved into a fashion statement.
Originally, glasses were expensive, so only the wealthy could afford them, making them a status symbol.
Today, however, eyewear is functional and a fashion accessory. From oversized frames to cat-eye styles, eyewear became a canvas for personal expression. Celebrities like Elton John and Johnny Depp have famously used unique eyewear to make bold fashion statements.
Summary
As you consider these facts about eyewear, take time to schedule your next comprehensive eye exam. Contact the Mississippi Eye Care clinic near you to book appointments for the whole family. Keep reading our blogs for more on eyewear and vision care.
