Glasses frames come in different shapes and sizes and also different materials. These variations are not there purely to make the frames look different, there are practical considerations to take into account also. The makers of designer glasses not only have to make the frames look trendy and modern; they have to make sure they are practical enough to be used as eyeglasses. I will briefly look at the differences in this article.
Plastic frames are good for people that are sensitive to some of the metals used to make spectacle frames, such as nickel and steel. They can be light and made of different colours. These colours are part of the frame and can’t flake off like painted metal frames can. Plastic frames hold the lenses in well so if the lenses are fitted correctly they wont fall out unless you drop them or push them out. They can be very comfortable on the nose if they fit nicely across the bridge. They are however more difficult to adjust if they don’t fit well straight away.
Metal frames can be made thinner than plastic frames so can produce different shapes and styles. Plastic frames have to have an amount of thickness to make them strong enough. Metal frames can also be painted, giving rise to many patterns that can but put on them. Large chunky metal frames tend to be heavy but metal frames can be made thin and light.
Titanium is a common material to make frames from as it is light and strong. It also has the advantage of being hypoallergenic. Its down side is that it is more expensive. It is also harder to adjust due to its strength.
Supra frames are those specs that have a rim on the top and a thin nylon cord at the bottom. These reduce weight and also make the glasses look more minimalistic; if that’s what you’re after. They do tend to hold the lenses very well also.
Rimless frames are very popular but also tend to be expensive. This is because of the labour involved in drilling the holes that the sides attach to. Rimless eyeglasses are very light and look very smart. They are more delicate and the lenses should be made from the tougher 1.6 material. They can work themselves loose if not handled correctly so you must look after them well. They usually have one of two types of fitting, either two prongs and plastic plugs or a nut and bolt design. I favour the plastic plugs as they can be more easily refitted when loose.
Craig Leaver is a professional optician and owner of my eyeglasses an online shop for designer glasses and Eyeglasses.
Craig’s dedication to caring for his patients visual health and their pocked drives him on his daily quest for caring quality.