History of Sunglasses
The first sunglasses were invented in 12th century China. Sunglasses as we know them today were invented by Emperor Cheng to protect eyes from sunlight while working outdoors. The darkened lenses, made only for the very rich, were shaped like animals or characters. Some might credit Roman emperor Nero for the concept of sunglasses. Early forms of protection from the sun were likely in use simultaneously in different parts of the world.
Evolution of Eyeglasses
The invention of eyeglasses dates back to the 13th century, credited to Salvino D’Armati and a monk named Allesandro della Spina. Frames were initially made of metal or bone with quartz lenses. In the 17th century, lighter steel frames were developed. Benjamin Franklin invented bifocals in the mid-1700s.
The Rise of Sunglasses Industry
A company mass produced cheap glasses by the mid-1800s, becoming worth $48.5 million by the early 1900s with 150 US labs. Benedetto Castelli was an early observer of the sun with sunglasses. Sunglass inventions had similar purposes throughout history, but today they are a popular accessory used by millions.