Introduction

The Genesis of Eyeglasses

In 1289, within the walls of a monastery in Florence, the term "eyeglasses" was inscribed for the first time. The monks, crafting the inaugural frame from wild boar tusks, could not have envisioned that this skeletal support for a crystal lens would catalyze a 700-year narrative of material evolution. The transformation of frame materials mirrors a miniature chronicle of human civilization, chronicling technological innovations and aesthetic revolutions.

The Era of Natural Materials (14th-18th Centuries)

During this period, as Venetian glassmakers employed fish glue to bond lenses, a stark cultural divergence emerged in the exploration of frame materials between the East and West:

European Monastery's Animal Materials

Medieval artisans utilized reindeer antlers for frame legs, harnessing the cold forest's bounty for lightweight solutions. Baltic amber frames, encasing prehistoric insects, became prized possessions of the Pope.

Eastern Metal Craftsmanship

China's "Tian Gong Kai Wu" documented the "Wu Tong Zou Yin" technique—craftsmen embedding silver threads into purple copper frames, creating celestial patterns through herbal fumigation.

The Ocean's Precious Gift

In 1609, the Ryukyu Kingdom's tribute to Tokugawa Ieyasu, tortoiseshell frames, required divers to harvest a century-old sea turtle, extracting only the 13 most transparent central scales from its shell, marking it as the ultimate luxury of the Edo era.

Frames from this era were often exceedingly heavy, surpassing 200 grams, akin to balancing a dagger on the nose bridge. The London Museum's walnut frame from 1650, etched with star charts by its user—materials served not only as carriers but also as mediums recording civilization.

The Industrial Age of Material Democratization (19th-20th Centuries)

In 1839, Goodyear's invention of vulcanized rubber enabled the mass production of frames for the first time. The true revolution arrived in 1907 with Bakelite, invented by Baekeland:

The Celluloid Era (1910-1940)

This flammable material, derived from nitrocellulose cotton, drastically reduced frame costs from £3 to 7 shillings. In Manhattan's sweatshops, Jewish women used steam molds to produce 300 frames daily, with the colorful frames from the assembly line shaping the screen aesthetics of Hollywood's golden age.

The Acetate Fiber Revolution (1952)

When chemists transformed cotton fluff into a pearlescent board, glasses first achieved the texture of high fashion. Audrey Hepburn's cat-eye glasses in "Breakfast at Tiffany's" utilized 0.5 mm gradient boards to capture the New York skyline in the morning fog.

The Titanium Metal Myth (1983)

 Japanese Masunaga Optical engineers, inspired by F-15 fighter jet skins, crafted an 8-gram ultra-light frame from beta titanium alloy. This "memory metal," capable of withstanding 10,000 bends, transformed frames from fragile items into heirlooms.

Modern Material Innovations

In the modern era, material scientists and designers continue to explore new materials and technologies to create lighter, more comfortable, and more durable eyewear frames:

Carbon Fiber

 Known for its high strength and lightweight properties, this material is used to craft high-end frames, offering unparalleled comfort and durability.

Biomaterials

 Some companies are exploring bio-based materials like bioplastics, which can be more environmentally friendly while also providing good performance.

Smart Materials

With technological advancements, some frames integrate smart technologies such as sensors and mini displays, offering users more functions and convenience.

Material as a Symbol of Identity

In today's society, the material of eyewear frames is more than a functional choice; it reflects personal identity and values:

Rosewood Frames

For those who value nature and sustainability, rosewood frames symbolize identity, demonstrating respect for the environment and traditional craftsmanship.

Ocean Plastic Recycling Models

Opting for this type of frame shows concern for the environment and a commitment to supporting sustainable development through daily choices.

3D Printed Liquid Metal

This frame appeals to those passionate about technology and innovation, enjoying the latest technologies and designs.

Lab-Grown Diamond Legs

This choice may attract those who seek uniqueness and luxury, also showing their acceptance and appreciation of modern technology. Tokyo's Ginza district's concept eyewear store "VISIONS" has opened a material belief section, showcasing various materials of eyewear frames, allowing customers to choose according to their preferences and values.

Conclusion

Eyewear Frames and Civilization

The evolution of eyewear frame materials has always been a material symbol of human technological capabilities. From ancient animal bones to modern high-tech materials, each change reflects our pursuit of beauty, comfort, and functionality. In the future, with the continuous emergence of new materials and technologies, eyewear frames will continue to evolve, becoming a part of our identity and story, helping us communicate and connect with the world better.