Glasses were first invented by Salvino D’Armate in 1284, Italy. He is widely credited as the one who made the first pair of spectacles that could be worn. Though there were some earlier types of magnification, D’Armate’s model was the beginning of wearable vision correction. Initially, people made and used glasses with convex lenses to read and do close-up works, therefore the use was limited to scholars and monks. The innovation was not only a change of sight but also the way people lived. Since then, glasses have been one of the most important tools to help people live better and enable learning.
History of glasses
Origin of glasses
Early beginnings of spectacles (9th-13th century):
The early beginnings of glasses can be traced back to the 9th to 13th century in Italy. Italian monks and scholars are the first to be credited with the use of magnifying lenses for vision correction. Initially, these lenses were able to improve close-up vision only. They were usually fixed in wooden or metal frames which could be placed on the nose or held with the hand. These “handheld reading stones” were mostly used by monks to read their manuscripts, which means that the first glasses were used as learning tools.
Advancements in glasses designs (14th-15th century):
The 14th century was the time when spectacles were widely accepted and used in Europe. Better designs were made and followed, such as the rivet spectacles that allowed the frames to be folded through hinges. Those were essentially reading glasses and were generally used by the rich alone. In the 15th century, with the invention of the printing press, reading became more common, leading to increased demand for glasses.
Glasses in the renaissance & beyond
Renaissance era (16th-17th century):
During the Renaissance period, spectacles were more frequently used and their designs had started to change. The invention of concave lenses gave the possibility to adjust myopia (shortsightedness), thus the usage of glasses increased. In addition, this time was characterised by the popularity of stylish eyeglasses as people started wearing them not just as a vision corrector tool but as a reflection of social status.
Innovations of the 18th century:
The 18th century was the time when glasses not only remained the most essential part but also witnessed a drastic change in their comfort and usability. With the introduction of the double-hinged sides, which lie on the ears, spectacles became more comfortable to wear. Besides that, the invention of bifocals, which is said to have been made by Benjamin Franklin, allowed people to read as well as see far through one single pair of glasses.
Modern day spectacles
Advancements in the 19th century:
With the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century, spectacles became cheaper and more accessible to people. This is because during this period, new materials, production methods, etc. were introduced. Additionally, the use of metal frames combined with the improvement of lens grinding precision made it possible to correct vision with better results. At the beginning of the 20th century, glasses had become popular and were offered in different types, not only to meet the needs of the wearers but also to follow fashion trends of the time.
Rise of designer glasses in the mid 20th century:
Eyeglasses in the middle of the 20th century underwent a major change to be recognised as a fashion statement rather than just tools for vision correction. During this period, a few notable frame shapes were introduced, for example, the cat eye glasses in the 1950s and the oversized frames in the 1970s. Celebrities and public figures began to influence eyewear trends, making spectacles an important accessory of an individual’s personal style.
Glasses frames in today’s era:
Nowadays, glasses are better than ever with the combination of the latest technology and elegant designs. Feel Good Contacts are happy to provide a vast selection of world-class glasses and lenses that cover every vision requirement, starting from multifocal lenses up to blue light filters. People can choose from a selection of frames that come in different styles and even different materials, so that you are able to find the right pair of glasses which will not only match your daily routine but also your taste in fashion. Whether you are in need of glasses for reading, driving, work, or everyday wear, we are here to help you decide on the right pair of glasses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who invented the glasses first?
The first wearable glasses were invented by Salvino D’Armate in 1284, Italy.
When did people first start using glasses?
People began using glasses in the late 13th century, mainly for reading and close-up work.
What materials were the first glasses made from?
The earliest glasses had glass lenses and frames made from wood and metal. They were often handheld or rested on the nose.
When did glasses become widely used?
Glasses became more common in the 15th century, especially after the introduction of the printing press, which made reading more widespread.
How have glasses changed over time?
Glasses have transformed from simple reading aids into advanced, stylish eyewear, with options like bifocals, anti-glare coatings, lightweight materials and fashion-forward frames.
Wut Win is a qualified Dispensing Optician at Feel Good Contacts and a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO). She is registered with the General Optical Council (GOC) and adheres to its professional guidelines. Wut graduated from City & Islington College with a Diploma in Ophthalmic Dispensing in 2006 and has over 17 years of experience. She has worked with several leading high street opticians, dispensing eyewear, including prescription glasses and sunglasses. Wut has also assisted children with autism and special needs through the Special School Eyecare Service.
