We have come a long way from traditional eyewear whose only purpose was to make you see well. Eyeglasses went from being the ‘nerd accessory’ to become the style icon for eyes.
Now there are glasses for different purposes and occasions. You have your reading glasses, designer glasses, sunglasses, and even anti-blue glasses to protect your eyes from the blue light.
However, most people who regularly wear them don’t usually know the parts of glasses by name. But if you’re ordering a new pair or have problems with your current eyeglasses, knowing the temples from the nose pads will be helpful. And it’s not a bad idea to know the function of each separate part of your glasses in case they break and you need replacement parts.
If you’re curious about the different parts that make up your glasses or sunglasses, then read on!
Frame
The Frame is what provides the structure on which your lenses are placed and is the main thing most people consider when choosing a pair of eyeglasses. They come in a variety of shapes and significantly contribute to the look of the wearer.
The style and size of the frames you select will vary depending on the strength of your prescription or the shape of your face.
Lens
Lenses are the clear pieces of glass, plastic or other material held in place by the rims. The lenses are crafted and shaped with your unique prescription to help you see clearly. Lenses commonly come in clear plastic or polycarbonate.
The primary function of a prescription lens is to correct vision. Secondary functions of lenses include UV protection and cutting down glare.
Bridges
The bridge is the center of the frame that rests on your nose and joins the two rims together. They’re designed to support 90% of the weight of your glasses and determine the fit of your frames.
There are a few varieties—the keyhole for smaller and flatter noses, the saddle for heavier glasses, and the traditional double with a second bar on top.
Temples
Also called the “arms” of a pair of eyeglasses, temples are the stems that extend from the sides of the frame to the ears (they’re named for the part of your face they rest closest to).
Plastic or silicone coatings called temple tips cover the ends of the temples, to ensure comfort and relieve the pressure of temples on the top of your ears. They’re also referred to as earpieces.
Nose pads
Nose pads may be the smallest visible parts of eyeglasses, but they ensure a comfortable fit while holding the glasses in place. All nose pads can be adjusted unless they are moulded into the frame, typically on acetate frames.
Silicone nose pads are more durable and comfortable and prevent the glasses from slipping out of place.
Hinges
The hinges, which sit between the end pieces and the temples allow you to close your glasses by folding the temples inward.
Traditionally made glasses feature a regular hinge, while more technically advanced ones use spring-loaded hinges that spread the temples based on the width of the face.
Everyone’s face is different in size and shape, but the great news is there are different glasses for everyone. Knowing the parts of glasses will come in handy the next time you’re choosing a new pair, and let you make a more informed decision about what suits you the best.