Frame Options
There are many different materials used in eyeglass frames. Metal,
plastic and carbon fiber frames are the most common. The Eyeglass
Shop believes is committed to educating our customers about their
choices in eyeglasses. If you have a question, contact
us.
Frame Materials - Metals
Metal frames tend to be thinner, lighter, and more subtle in design
and appearance. Thanks to new coloration techniques, metal frames
are also available in a wide variety of colors.
Monel Base Metal
Monel eyeglass frames are usually an alloy of nickel and copper,
this is the most commonly used material in metal frames. Monel frames
are hard and sturdy, yet flexible enough to be adjustable; they
can be coated in alloys or enamels. Many finishing treatments are
available in a wide range of colors and textures.
Ruthenium
Ruthenium frames are made from a platinum metal with strong, durable,
non-corrosive qualities. The surfaces are hard and highly-resistant
to scratches.
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel Frames are strong and lighter weight than Monel.
Stainless Steel is corrosion-resistant.
Titanium
Titanium eyeglass frames are ultra-lightweight, very strong and
completely non-corrosive. This material is used in supersonic airplane
construction.
Frame Materials - Carbon
Carbon fiber or graphite is the fashion choice for sunglasses.
It's strong, lightweight and sexy.
Carbon Fiber (Graphite)
Added to nylon and plastic materials to increase strength. Colors
are opaque; baked enamel provides texture and shine. Carbon surfaces
are resistant to damage, very durable and shape-retentive. Its qualities
permit thin and delicate eyeglass frame designs.
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Frame Parts
Bridge
- the area which rests on the nose.
Eyewire - Runs around the border of
eyewear lenses.
Frame - The structure holding the lenses
to the face.
Hinge - Connects the temple to the
rest of the frame.
Lens - the prescription part of eyewear.
Nose Pads - Located in the bridge area;
they help to distribute the weight for a comfortable fit.
Temple - the side pieces that hold
the eyewear to the ear.
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Frame Materials - Plastic
Did you know that many eyeglass frames have the appearance of plastic,
but are actually cellulose acetate - a vegetable-based product?
Cellulose Propionate
Eyeglass frames made from Cellulose Propionate are lightweight and
hypoallergenic, available in a wide range of colors and densities,
which are usually translucent. Formulated for injection molding,
they allow for more intricate designs.
Copolyamide
Copolyamide is also known as polyamide. This material is flexible
and impact-resistant with a scratch-resistant surface that's very
lightweight. Eyeglass frames retail their shape and color well.
These frames are excellent for active lifestyles and sportswear.
Nylon
Nylon eyeglass frames are extremely durable, but are only available
in opaque colors.
Polycarbonate
"Polycarb" eyeglass frames are used in safety and sports
frames.
Rubber
Rubber eyeglass frames employ a combination of rubber and nylon
and are most frequently used for sports eyewear and sunglasses.
Rubber is soft, pliable and comfortable to wear.
Zyl
Zyl is also known as zylonite - a trade name for cellulose acetate.
Zyl is the most commonly used eyeglass frame material.
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