What Are Glasses Made Of ?

Advantages:
It is highly suitable for maintaining adjustments without denting or discoloration. This material is safe for individuals with metal allergies, and pure gold can retain its shine even after years of use.

Disadvantages:
However, due to the high cost of gold, the availability of such glasses is limited. Extra care is required during adjustments, as the surface may be relatively soft. Gold frames are typically made with a base metal core, surrounded by a gold alloy casing.

1.2 Luxurious eyeglass frames made of rare wood

Wooden eyeglass frames are typically crafted from natural wood, featuring a natural sheen and unique appearance that reflect the wearer's personality. They often combine modern and classic elements, making them suitable for various occasions. Additionally, wooden frames come in a variety of styles and can be reinforced with metal accents for added durability. They are also resistant to burning and discoloration caused by UV exposure. However, please note that customs may require permits or certifications for these products.

Advantages:
Unique and eco-friendly, full of natural charm and style.

Disadvantages:
Requires careful maintenance; sensitive to moisture, dryness, and deformation.

1.3 Luxury Glass Frames Made from Natural Materials

Natural buffalo horn glasses, compared to dining tables, can present a more refined glass-like appearance. The external style is understated, steady, and elegant. The horn comes from water buffalo, musk oxen, and sometimes even prehistoric mammoths. The patterns on the horn reveal the natural texture of the skin under natural light, with layers of intricate lines creating a strong contrast in colors. The muted, steady appearance of the horn is actually light and free, much like an inner desire for freedom, making it a timeless popular choice. For customs purposes, a license or certificate may be required.

Advantages: Typically made from Indian water buffalo horn, the surface is highly glossy and lightweight, and the texture is smooth to the touch. Each pair of horn glasses has unique color patterns and textures. The glasses will not cause sensitivity or static when in contact with human skin, a quality that metal or plastic frames cannot replicate. Additionally, these glasses are entirely handmade, with fine craftsmanship, making them rare and very unique.

Disadvantages: Buffalo horn glasses have poor adjustability. Unlike traditional metal or acetate frames, which can be bent to a larger angle (acetate frames need to be heated, and metal frames require tools), buffalo horn cannot be bent. The curvature it comes with is the one you need to wear, and if it doesn’t fit, it’s hard to alter. Buffalo horn requires regular maintenance, such as applying moisturizing oil, or it may crack. It is also prone to damage from falls, and once damaged, it cannot be restored to its original condition, leaving visible repair marks.

What material is the plastic frame made of?

2.1 Handmade Acetate Plastic Glasses Frames

Acetate glasses frames are made from a thermoplastic material—acetate fiber—known for being lightweight, flexible, durable, and wear-resistant. While it is not prone to deformation, it is important to note that over time, acetate may stretch, shrink, or become brittle. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can also cause fading. Additionally, excessive heat may lead to frame distortion or loosened hinges.

Advantages: Acetate frames are affordable, cost-effective, and have a high hardness. They offer a smooth, warm texture with strong wear resistance, making them ideal for everyday use. Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, these frames have a trendy appearance, especially suitable for young people. They also have strong plasticity, allowing for adjustments in the curvature of the temples to ensure a snug fit around the ears. Furthermore, they offer hypoallergenic and sweat-resistant properties, making them suitable for most skin types, especially for individuals allergic to metals.

Disadvantages: Over time, acetate may turn white due to sweat and corrosion, though this can be restored through polishing and refurbishing. Compared to other plastic materials, acetate frames can feel slightly heavier. Over time, acetate may release plasticizers, forming a milky white film on the surface. Additionally, in low temperatures, the frame may become brittle and prone to cracking.

Overall, acetate glasses frames provide a stylish, comfortable, and eco-friendly option, but they require proper maintenance to maintain their optimal condition.

2.2 TR90 Plastic Glasses Frames

TR90 glasses frames are made from TR90 plastic, a high-performance polymer known for its transparency, exceptional toughness, durability, wear resistance, and impact resistance. However, it is important to avoid contact with alcohol, as it may cause the frame material to crack. This material should also be labeled as "for cold mounting only."

Advantages: TR90 is highly resistant to corrosion, flexible, and lightweight, which helps reduce pressure on the nose and ears, making it ideal for young users. It is relatively affordable and can be printed with a variety of patterns.

Disadvantages: Adjusting TR90 frames can be difficult, and if adjustment is needed, it is recommended to visit a professional store.

2.3 Plastic Glasses Frames Made from Carbon Fiber

Carbon fiber frames are designed to maintain high strength while further reducing weight. They feature a unique texture and gloss, blending high-tech appeal with fashion, injecting fresh energy into the family of eyewear materials.

Advantages: Carbon fiber is extremely lightweight and highly durable—about 60% lighter than other materials. When using a carbon fiber front, the eyewear rim must be tightly screwed. Since the curvature of the rim cannot be adjusted, the lenses must be cut to the correct size and use the proper baseline curvature.

Disadvantages: The nose bridge cannot be modified. It is heat-sensitive, but it becomes slightly more flexible after heating. Depending on the coating on the frame, the nose bridge may be sensitive to chemicals like acetone or alcohol, or it may be resistant to them.

2.4 Plastic Glasses Frames Made from Polycarbonate (PC) Material

Polycarbonate is an injection-molded material known for its good UV absorption, impact resistance, and lightweight properties. It is not adjustable and should be kept away from acetone.

Advantages: This material is lightweight, flexible, and typically comes with adjustable nose pads, making it less prone to paint chipping.

Disadvantages: Polycarbonate requires painting and demands high-quality spraying techniques to ensure a smooth and durable finish.

2.5 Cellulose Propionate (CP) Plastic Glasses Frames

CP injection molding is a type of compression injection-molded thermoplastic that is lighter than cellulose acetate. The frame can be designed to be thinner due to the material's strength. Color addition is typically done as a secondary process. The color coating can increase the surface hardness of the frame, but the color may fade over time, and the frame may become brittle with age.

CP has low allergenicity. It does not have memory properties, so if stretched, it will not return to its original shape. Heating to temperatures above 105°C can cause irreparable damage. Acetone or alcohol should not be used, as these may damage the surface coating. The lenses must be cut to precise dimensions, as the material does not stretch or shrink to fit.

Advantages: It is cost-effective.

Disadvantages: It is prone to shrinking and deforming, and is too soft for manufacturing thinner products.

2.6 Nylon Plastic Glasses Frames

Nylon is an injection-molded thermoplastic polyamide material. It is durable, lightweight, almost indestructible, highly impact-resistant, hypoallergenic, and flexible. It is resistant to various solvents. However, nylon is difficult to adjust. Over time, this material may dry out and must be soaked in water weekly to prevent it from becoming brittle. Nylon does not shrink. The temples must have a metal core to allow for adjustment.

Advantages: It is an environmentally friendly thermoset material with high hardness and good elasticity.

Disadvantages: It is difficult to adjust.

2.7 Plastic Glasses Frames Made from Epoxy Resin

Epoxy resin is cast from a transparent, lightweight material that can later be coated with various colors. Optyl is 30% lighter than existing materials, has memory properties, and does not cause allergies. No wire core is needed. Optyl has full memory capability.

When the frame is heated to 176°C, it returns to its original shape as it was when it left the factory. Overheating will not damage the frame. However, without heating, it is difficult to adjust the frame. If heated and then immersed in cold water, the frame may crack. The temples can be slightly lengthened by heating and stretching.

2.8 Plastic Glasses Frames Made from Polyamide (Nylon) Material

Polyamide is an injection-molded nylon material that does not contain plasticizers. It is hypoallergenic, resistant to chemicals and solvents, and lightweight. Polyamide retains its shape under various temperature conditions.

It is strong and stable, with a wide range of colors available. Temperatures above 230°C can cause the frame to melt. The frame is colored through dyeing, which means that colors may vary between different batches. Acetone should not be used, as it can damage the finish. Cold mounting only.

3.What are metal frame glasses made of?

3.1 Metal Glasses Frames Made from Pure Titanium

Pure titanium contains 99.5% titanium, 0.5% oxygen, and nitrogen. It is free of nickel, hypoallergenic, lightweight, strong, and virtually unbreakable.

Pure titanium is easy to adjust, but it is expensive—around 25% more costly than other metal frames due to the difficulty in extraction, refining, and purification. This makes the raw material almost three times more expensive than nickel-silver or monel alloys.

Titanium cannot be made into extremely thin profiles. Hinges made from titanium will have a visible washer. This material is very porous, making it difficult to dye. Welding requires specialized equipment, as the temperature must exceed 1200°C, or it must be welded in an oxygen-free vacuum.

Advantages: Titanium is corrosion-resistant, unlikely to cause metal allergies, and is not prone to deformation. It is durable, lightweight, and flexible. Frames made from pure titanium or titanium will usually have the word "Pure Titanium" or "Titanium" marked on the rims.

Disadvantages: The material is somewhat soft, which can make the frame seem delicate. To ensure stability and strength, the frame design must use thicker lines.

3.2 Metal Glasses Frames Made from β-Titanium Alloy

β-Titanium alloy is composed of 74%-75% titanium, 15-22% vanadium (to increase hardness), 4-10% aluminum (to increase brightness), and chromium. It is flexible, lightweight, nickel-free, and corrosion-resistant. β-Titanium is hypoallergenic and can be made into thinner profiles than pure titanium. Like pure titanium, this material is porous, making it difficult to dye.

Advantages: β-Titanium is another form of titanium that offers the benefits of corrosion resistance and excellent malleability. It is typically marked as "β-Titanium" on the frames.

Disadvantages: However, this material is more difficult to adjust and has a higher processing difficulty.

3.3 Memory Titanium Metal Glasses Frames

Memory metal contains 40-50% nickel. It is not hypoallergenic but is corrosion-resistant, lightweight, durable, and flexible. The frame will return to its pre-adjusted shape after being bent or twisted.

Advantages: Memory titanium frames are a popular choice for high-end eyewear due to their lightweight, durability, stability, and vibrant colors. They also have biocompatibility, meaning they are safe for humans. These frames feature advanced technology and offer better functionality compared to standard frames.

Disadvantages: They are difficult to adjust and have a high processing difficulty.

3.4 Metal Glasses Frames Made from Nickel Silver

Nickel silver contains 62% copper, 20% zinc, and 18% nickel. It is most commonly used for terminal parts, decorative accessories, and hinges. Nickel silver is very hard, making it brittle. It is too hard to be used for eyeglass frames and temples. Colored metals are electroplated to prevent loss of shine. Nickel silver is softer than monel alloy and stainless steel.

Advantages: This material (especially cupronickel) is affordable and easy to process. Eyeglass frames made from nickel silver are also easy to adjust.

Disadvantages: This product is not high-end, often causes skin allergies, and is prone to developing copper tarnish.

3.5 Metal Glasses Frames Made from Monel Alloy

Monel alloy contains 68% nickel, 30% copper, and 2% iron, manganese, and zinc. Monel alloy is the most commonly used material for eyeglass frames. It is stronger and more corrosion-resistant than nickel alloys. Monel is primarily used for the eyeglass front as it maintains its shape well when adjusted. It is also used as a stable metal for the nose bridge and terminal parts of frames. Monel is easy to coat and color but is not hypoallergenic.

3.6 Metal Glasses Frames Made from Copper

Copper is stable and highly workable, but it is highly corrosion-prone. Copper is rarely used alone but is an essential component in the production of Monel alloy, phosphor bronze, and beryllium copper.

3.7 Metal Glasses Frames Made from Phosphor Bronze

Phosphor bronze is a copper-based alloy known for its flexibility. It is an ideal material for making thin temple cores and slender temples. It also has a high gloss but must be coated, painted, or covered to prevent the metal from losing its shine.

3.8 Metal Glasses Frames Made from Cobalt

Cobalt contains 78% Monel alloy and 22% nickel. It is the strongest, lightest material and does not corrode. Cobalt has good adjustability, but it is more difficult to adjust than other metals. It is used as the stable internal metal for high-quality frames. Cobalt is a silver-gray metal that has similar appearance, properties, and behavior to iron and nickel. It offers many of the advantages of titanium and steel but is easy to color, weld, and is highly resistant to wear.

3.9 Metal Glasses Frames Made from Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a combination of iron, nickel, chromium, and manganese. It is thin and strong but still flexible. Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, durable, and hypoallergenic.

Advantages: This material is flexible, resistant to deformation, lightweight, and has increased durability due to IP electroplating treatment on the surface.

Disadvantages: It is difficult to adjust. The lenses may appear thick, and the frame may look unappealing for higher prescriptions. Additionally, frames with surface coatings are prone to cracking, making them less durable.

3.10 Metal Glasses Frames Made from Aluminum

Aluminum is strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant. The parts must be riveted rather than welded. It is difficult to adjust. Aluminum is suitable for large frame designs without causing discomfort. It can be colored through anodizing, so the color may not be exactly the same as electroplating. The surface is prone to scratching.

Advantages: This material has a glossy and attractive appearance. Silver-colored aluminum alloy frames give the product a luxurious and aesthetic look. It also has rust, sweat, and fade resistance. The anodized layer forms a protective coating that prevents corrosion and increases durability. Additionally, the frame is lightweight and comfortable to wear.

Disadvantages: Aluminum-magnesium alloys have lower strength and require thick metal sheets for high-pressure molding, limiting creative design potential. It is more suitable for rigid and bold styles. The frame is too stiff to adjust, so spring hinges are necessary to accommodate different face shapes.

4.What material is the lens made of?

4.1Natural Crystal Lenses

The main component of this material is silicon dioxide, typically available in colorless and brown variants. It is resistant to abrasion and has a small coefficient of thermal expansion. However, due to its unique transparency to ultraviolet light, it can cause eye fatigue when worn for extended periods. Additionally, crystal lenses often contain impurities due to uneven density, which can lead to birefringence.

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• 4.2 Glass Lenses

• Common materials include "Toric lenses," "Crox lenses," "Crox-Si lenses," "Ultraslim lenses," and "1.60 glass lenses." Glass lenses are more scratch-resistant than other materials, but they tend to be heavier. Their refractive index is relatively high: regular lenses have a refractive index of 1.523, and ultra-thin lenses can reach up to 1.72, with some going as high as 2.0. Glass lenses are thinner than resin lenses for the same prescription due to their higher refractive index. They have excellent light transmission and stable mechanical and chemical properties. Clear lenses are called optical white lenses, while colored lenses, like pink lenses, are known as Crox-Si lenses. These can absorb ultraviolet rays and slightly reduce the effect of strong light. However, glass lenses are fragile and heavy.

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• 4.3Resin Lenses (CR-39)

• The most representative resin lens is CR-39, made from a hard and transparent material with a refractive index of 1.499 and a light transmission rate of 92%. It has good thermal stability, remaining stable below 150°C. It is resistant to water, corrosion (except for strong acids), and most organic solvents. It is lighter than glass, with a specific gravity of 1.32, which is half that of glass. Resin lenses are impact-resistant, not easily broken, and offer enhanced safety (complying with FDA standards). They are comfortable to wear and easy to process, making them suitable for various frames, including semi-rimless and rimless designs. However, resin lenses are more prone to scratches and are thicker (1.2-1.3 times) than glass lenses for the same prescription due to their lower refractive index.

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• 4.4PC Lenses (Polycarbonate Lenses)

• Polycarbonate lenses, also known as "space lenses" or "cosmic lenses," are made from thermoplastic material. This means they are solid before heating and will shape into lenses once heated. However, they can deform if overheated, making them unsuitable for high-humidity or high-temperature environments. PC lenses are highly durable, impact-resistant (can be used in bulletproof glass), and extremely lightweight, with a specific gravity of just 2 grams per cubic centimeter. Despite their excellent impact resistance, PC lenses are prone to scratches, have poor heat stability, and soften at temperatures above 100°C.
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• 4.5 Nylon Lenses

• Nylon lenses primarily use TROGAMID, a special transparent polyamide (commonly known as memory nylon). This is an ultra-fine anti-UV crystal material that does not scatter visible light. The most significant advantage of nylon lenses is their excellent stress crack resistance and outstanding chemical resistance. They also have better processing capabilities than PC lenses, making them the preferred choice for high-end lenses. While they are coated to improve scratch resistance, their surface still offers less protection than CR39 lenses and is comparable to PC lenses. The relatively high cost of nylon lenses is a barrier to their widespread use.

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• 4.6Polarized Lenses (Polaroid Lenses)

• The main function of polarized lenses is to filter light coming from one direction while blocking light from other directions, similar to how Venetian blinds filter light. This helps eliminate glare, especially from surfaces like water, land, or snow. Polarized lenses increase contrast, reduce eye strain, and provide clearer, more natural vision. They are particularly popular with drivers as they reduce glare from the sun and other reflective surfaces. Polarized lenses also block UV rays and harmful light, which helps prevent cataracts and eye fatigue. With enhanced scratch resistance, polarized lenses provide high durability and excellent impact resistance, protecting your eyes from harm.
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5. Analysis of Materials Used in High-End Popular Sunglasses Brands

To produce high-quality eyewear with exceptional tactile and visual appeal, top-tier materials are crucial. Different brands have their own market positioning and carefully select the materials they use to manufacture their eyewear collections.

At times, the choice of material is also influenced by the structure of the eyewear. Factors such as the strength, weight, and stability of parts during production are all considered based on the eyewear's design and structure.

6. Recommendations for Choosing the Best Eyeglass Frame Materials

When considering which material to use for manufacturing your eyewear brand, you should take the following factors into account and consult reliable and professional eyewear manufacturers when necessary:

Target Audience: The first step in building your brand is identifying your target market and understanding their preferences, needs, and budget. This will help you choose eyewear materials that meet their specific requirements.

Durability: Choose materials with long-lasting durability that can withstand daily wear and tear, especially for highly active parts such as hinges, temples, and lenses.

Comfort: Select materials that are comfortable, lightweight, and hypoallergenic, especially for those with sensitive or allergic skin.

Style and Design: Choose materials that align with your brand’s design aesthetics, enabling you to create a variety of styles and designs.

Manufacturing Process: Consider the ease of manufacturing, the stability of part sizes and shapes, the availability of materials, and the environmental impact of the production process.

Cost-Effectiveness: Balance quality and cost to ensure your eyewear is competitively priced without compromising on quality. This factor is critical, depending on the professionalism of your eyewear manufacturing partner. Be sure to clearly communicate your quality requirements and implement excellent craftsmanship.

Sustainability: Opt for eco-friendly materials and production methods, as consumers are increasingly concerned about the ecological impact of the products they purchase.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and select the materials that are best suited for your eyewear brand.

At Hechang, we are dedicated to offering the highest quality products across a wide range of materials to meet your specific needs. Whether you are looking for durable, lightweight, or innovative materials, we ensure that our products deliver exceptional performance and longevity. From premium lenses to custom-made solutions, we offer an extensive selection to cater to various industries and applications.

Explore our diverse collection of products, crafted from the finest materials including crystal, glass, resin, polycarbonate, and more. With Hechang, you can trust that each product is designed to provide superior functionality, durability, and style.