Sunglasses were not originally designed to protect your eyes from the sun

The Surprising Origins of Sunglasses

When you think of sunglasses today, the first thing that comes to mind is likely sun protection. However, the history of these iconic accessories may surprise you, as sunglasses were not originally designed with eye protection in mind. Instead, their genesis is rooted in functionality and style, evolving significantly over centuries to become an essential part of modern fashion and personal care.

The earliest known use of sunglasses dates back to ancient China around the 12th century. These early eyewear pieces were made of flat panes of smoky quartz, worn by judges to conceal their expressions while questioning witnesses. Rather than shielding their eyes from the sun’s glare, the primary purpose of these rudimentary sunglasses was to maintain composure and authority in a courtroom setting. In this context, sunglasses were more of a tool for social interaction than an accessory for eye health.

Similarly, the Inuit people used sunglasses crafted from materials like whale bones or wood. These unique designs had narrow slits to block out harmful glare from the sun reflecting off the snow and ice in the Arctic. While effective in reducing brightness, they were initially employed more for practical purposes linked to the harsh conditions of their environment rather than for the sake of UV protection.

It wasn’t until the 18th century that sunglasses began to resemble the protective eyewear we know today. In 1752, Benjamin Franklin created the first pair of bifocal glasses, which could be considered a precursor to modern sunglasses; however, the focus was still more on vision correction than sun protection. In the 19th century, sunglasses started to gain popularity among the upper classes as fashionable items. In fact, it was in this period that the first tinted lenses were introduced, though they were primarily used to enhance vision, not to guard against UV rays.

The turning point in the evolution of sunglasses came in the early 20th century. With the rise of Hollywood and the film industry, sunglasses began to be seen as stylish accessories worn by celebrities and trendsetters. Notably, the first pair of sunglasses specifically marketed for sun protection was created in 1936 by Edwin Land, the inventor of the Polaroid camera. His polarized sunglasses effectively reduced glare and started paving the way for sunglasses as we know them today.

By the 1970s, advancements in lens technology led to the widespread acceptance of sunglasses as essential gear for outdoor activities, from sports to leisurely beach days. The introduction of UV-blocking materials highlighted the need for eye protection, and brands began to capitalize on this by educating consumers on the importance of safeguarding their eyesight from harmful rays.

Today, sunglasses are synonymous with style and sun protection. They not only serve as a fashion statement but also play a crucial role in protecting our eyes from the sun’s harmful UV radiation. As we sporting sleek designs and colorful lenses, it’s fascinating to reflect on how far sunglasses have come since their early days as simply functional tools.

So, the next time you pick up your favorite pair of shades, remember the rich history that has shaped their evolution—from courtroom decorum to fashionable eye protection. Sunglasses have truly transformed over the centuries, turning into an indispensable accessory for health and style in our daily lives.