The trend of wooden glasses
Finding the right eyewear can sometimes be quite difficult. The choice is huge and you have the choice between different colors, brands, shapes, latest technologies and materials. Moreover, new and innovative products are launched every year in the hope of providing the wearer with even more choice and comfort. In 2017, glasses made of real wood were presented for the first time at the Opticians' Fair. The natural material that embodies aesthetics and nature quickly found followers and has since become a real part of the optic industry. Wooden glasses, a trend that will delight everyone
The origins of the wooden frame
We need to go back to the 13th century to learn more about the origins of wooden eyewear. At this time, an Italian scientist named Salvino D. Armati tested the first ophthalmic lenses. However, the eyeglass frame at that time had nothing to do with the frame that we know today. Natural materials such as shells, branches or even broken glass were used to somehow hold the glasses together.
From the Middle Ages, people began to become interested in their own looks, and glasses became more and more a status symbol of wisdom and education. Also the desire for aesthetics and visual comfort offered by the glasses increased. As a reminder: At this time, there were no temples, glasses were attached to the nose.
The Murano glass used in the 13th century was then covered with wooden rings to improve its appearance. As you can see here, everything began with wooden rings that were placed around the glasses. Since there was no plastic at that time, the first ever glasses were made out of 100% wood.
