When Were Sunglasses Invented? History and Evolution Explained

Introduction to Eye Protection

Sunglasses have been around for centuries, with their origins dating back to early human history. The question of when sunglasses were invented is a fascinating journey that takes us through different cultures, technological advancements, and fashion trends. Initially created for protection, sunglasses have evolved into a stylish accessory that provides essential sun protection, reduces glare, and enhances visual clarity. Today, sunglasses are a vital part of everyday life, helping to safeguard eyes from harmful UV rays and sunlight reflecting off surfaces. But how did these first sunglasses come into being? Let’s take a closer look at the history.

Ancient Precursors

Before the invention of modern sunglasses, various cultures developed primitive eyewear to protect their eyes from the harsh sunlight. The earliest forms of protective eyewear were practical solutions, offering basic protection rather than the fashionable accessories we see today.

• Inuit Tribes: In the Arctic regions, the Inuit tribes used snow goggles made from materials like walrus ivory and wood to protect their eyes from snow blindness caused by intense sunlight reflecting off snow. These early dark glasses featured narrow slits, allowing just enough light for the wearer to see while blocking out harmful rays.
• Roman Emperor Nero: The Roman emperor Nero is often credited with one of the earliest instances of tinted glasses. He is said to have used polished emeralds to watch gladiator fights, which likely helped protect his eyes from the bright sunlight while also offering some visual clarity. These green-tinted lenses are considered to be one of the earliest forms of sunglasses.
• Ancient Chinese Judges: Ancient Chinese judges wore smoky quartz sunglasses to conceal their facial expressions during trials. These early forms of special eyewear allowed them to maintain neutrality and authority while protecting their eyes from bright sunlight.

These early sunglasses were crafted from natural materials like wood, ivory, and quartz, offering protection but not yet providing the advanced features we expect from modern sunglasses.

Historical Sunglasses

The 18th century marked a significant turning point in the development of sunglasses. While they were initially created for functional purposes like reducing glare and improving vision, sunglasses began to evolve in both design and technology.

• James Ayscough’s Tinted Lenses: The first pair of sunglasses with tinted lenses was invented by James Ayscough in the 18th century. Ayscough used green lenses to reduce glare, making them a useful tool for protecting eyes from sun glare while also enhancing visual clarity. These early tinted glasses laid the foundation for what we now know as modern sunglasses.
• Goldoni Glasses: Goldoni glasses, also known as gondola glasses, were used by Venetian gondoliers to protect their eyes from the sun’s reflection off the water. These gondola glasses were a crucial tool for anyone working in Venice’s canals, helping them maintain visibility and comfort under the harsh sunlight.
• Aviator Sunglasses: In the 1930s, aviator sunglasses were invented for pilots to protect their eyes from the intense light at high altitudes. These sunglasses, with their distinctive green lenses and metal frames, became synonymous with both military and civilian aviation. Today, aviators are a timeless style, popular for both their functional benefits and their association with iconic figures.

These early mass-produced sunglasses laid the groundwork for the evolution of polarized lenses and the integration of fashion into eyewear design.

Mass Production

The 1920s marked the beginning of sunglasses’ mass production, making them more accessible to the general public. This era also saw the introduction of plastic frames and glass lenses, which contributed to the widespread adoption of sunglasses as both a practical and fashionable accessory.

• Sam Foster and Foster Grant: In the 1920s, Sam Foster played a pivotal role in making sunglasses affordable and widely available. By mass-producing sunglasses through his brand, Foster Grant sunglasses, he made them accessible to everyday consumers. This marked a significant shift in eyewear from a functional accessory to a fashion trend.
• Affordable Sunglasses: The introduction of plastic frames and glass lenses helped reduce the cost of sunglasses, making them affordable for a broader market. This was the beginning of the commercial sunglasses industry, where brands like Foster Grant became household names, offering affordable sunglasses that combined UV protection with style.

Mass production allowed sunglasses to become a mainstream product, and they began to appear in various styles, colors, and materials. This development ensured that sunglasses became an essential part of everyday life, from beach outings to urban strolls.

Evolution of Sunglasses

The 1930s to the 1970s saw significant advancements in both lens technology and sunglasses design. These changes not only enhanced the functionality of sunglasses but also cemented their status as fashion statements.

• Polarized Lenses: In the 1930s, Edwin H. Land invented polarized lenses, which revolutionized the sunglasses industry by providing superior protection against glare and UV rays. Polarized sunglasses are designed to block horizontal light, reducing glare from surfaces like water, snow, and roads. This made them ideal for outdoor activities like fishing, driving, and skiing.
• Mirrored Lenses and Oversized Frames: The 1960s and 1970s saw the rise of oversized sunglasses, which were popularized by celebrities and fashion icons. The mirrored lenses and large frames not only offered better protection from the sun but also made sunglasses a fashionable accessory. Ray-Ban and other brands capitalized on this trend, making oversized sunglasses a staple in the fashion world.
• Scratch-Resistant Lenses: As technology advanced, sunglasses began incorporating scratch-resistant lenses to improve their durability and lifespan. Modern sunglasses now use high-quality materials such as polarised lenses and specialized coatings to protect against scratches, smudges, and UV light.

Lens Technology

Sunglass technology has evolved significantly over the years, with numerous advancements designed to improve visual clarity, reduce glare, and protect eyes from harmful UV rays.

• Polarized Lenses: One of the most important innovations in lens technology is the polarized lens. These lenses are designed to filter out horizontal light, which is the primary cause of glare. By reducing glare from reflective surfaces, polarized sunglasses improve visual clarity and reduce eye strain, making them ideal for activities like driving and fishing.
• Tinted Lenses: Tinted lenses, such as green or brown lenses, help reduce glare while enhancing contrast. They are especially useful for people who spend time outdoors, as they reduce eye fatigue caused by bright light. Tinted sunglasses have remained a popular choice for both fashionable accessories and protective eyewear.
• Blue Light Blocking Lenses: In recent years, blue light blocking lenses have been introduced to protect eyes from the harmful effects of blue light emitted by digital screens. This new lens technology has made sunglasses even more versatile, offering protection for both outdoor activities and screen use.

Modern Sunglass Styles

Today’s sunglasses come in a wide range of styles, each with its unique characteristics. Whether you prefer a classic look or a bold, modern design, there is a pair of sunglasses for every taste.

• Aviator Sunglasses: First introduced in the 1930s, aviator sunglasses remain a classic style. Known for their metal frames and green lenses, aviators have been popularized by celebrities and military personnel alike.
• Wayfarer Sunglasses: Introduced in the 1950s, wayfarer sunglasses are another iconic style. Known for their trapezoidal shape and polarized lenses, they offer both visual clarity and sun protection in a classic, timeless design.
• Oversized Sunglasses: Popularized in the 1960s, oversized sunglasses continue to make a statement in modern fashion. With their large frames and mirrored lenses, they offer full coverage while making a bold fashion statement.

Conclusion

The history of sunglasses is a rich and fascinating story that spans thousands of years. From the first sunglasses used for practical protection to the modern sunglasses we wear today, the evolution of eyewear has been shaped by both technological advancements and fashion trends. Today, sunglasses serve both a practical purpose, offering UV protection and reducing glare, and as a stylish accessory that completes any outfit.

At Speksy, we offer a wide selection of stylish sunglasses that provide excellent protection from UV rays and glare. Whether you’re looking for classic aviators, modern wayfarers, or polarized lenses for enhanced clarity, we have the perfect pair to suit your needs. Browse our collection today to find sunglasses that combine fashion and function, and protect your eyes in style!

FAQs

Did sunglasses exist in the 1920s?

Yes, sunglasses were mass-produced in the 1920s, largely thanks to Sam Foster’s innovation with Foster Grant sunglasses. This marked the beginning of sunglasses being accessible to the general public.

Did sunglasses exist in the 1800s?

Yes, sunglasses with tinted lenses were invented in the 18th century, and James Ayscough is credited with creating the first pair of green-tinted lenses. These early sunglasses were used to reduce glare and improve visual clarity.

Were there sunglasses in 1858?

Yes, sunglasses with tinted lenses were already in use by 1858. These early sunglasses were primarily designed for practical use rather than fashion, helping to protect the eyes from sun glare.

Did they have sunglasses in 1910?

By 1910, sunglasses were becoming more common, particularly for protecting eyes from UV rays. However, they were still not as fashionable or accessible as they are today, and they were mainly used for outdoor work or driving.