Yes, you absolutely can buy glasses with glass lenses today.
Many people wonder if the traditional glass lens is still an option in the world of modern eyewear. The answer is a resounding yes. As confirmed by the reference, glass eyeglasses lenses are still made today, offering a durable and high-quality choice for those seeking clear vision correction.
Why Choose Glass Lenses?
While plastic lenses, particularly materials like polycarbonate and high-index plastics, have become increasingly popular due to their lightness and impact resistance, glass lenses retain certain advantages that keep them relevant in the market.
Here are some key benefits of choosing glass lenses:
- Superior Scratch Resistance: Glass is naturally harder than most plastic materials, making it highly resistant to scratches. This can result in a longer lifespan for the lenses if properly cared for.
- Exceptional Optical Clarity: Glass offers the highest level of optical clarity among lens materials, providing distortion-free vision, especially for higher prescriptions.
- Less Prone to Discoloration: Unlike some plastic materials, glass lenses are less likely to yellow or discolor over time.
Are There Downsides?
Like any material, glass lenses also have potential drawbacks:
- Weight: Glass is significantly heavier than plastic, which can make glasses less comfortable, particularly for stronger prescriptions where the lenses are thicker.
- Impact Resistance: While scratch-resistant, glass is less impact-resistant than polycarbonate or Trivex and can shatter upon significant impact. This makes them less suitable for children, active individuals, or certain occupations.
- Thickness: For high prescriptions, glass lenses can become quite thick, although high-index glass options can help reduce this to some extent.
Availability of Glass Lenses
Despite the prevalence of plastic options, many optical shops and online retailers still offer glass lenses, especially for specific prescription needs or for patients who prefer their unique optical qualities. You may need to specifically request them, as plastic is often the default offering.
Consider the following when deciding on glass lenses:
- Your Prescription: Glass works well for many prescriptions, but the weight and thickness increase with power.
- Your Lifestyle: If you are very active or work in an environment where your glasses could be easily damaged, a more impact-resistant material might be safer.
- Your Preference: Some users simply prefer the feel and perceived clarity of glass.
Comparison Table: Glass vs. Popular Plastic Lenses
| Feature | Glass Lenses | Polycarbonate Lenses | High-Index Plastic Lenses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scratch Resistance | Excellent | Fair | Good |
| Impact Resistance | Poor (Can Shatter) | Excellent | Good |
| Optical Clarity | Excellent | Good | Very Good |
| Weight | Heavy | Lightweight | Very Lightweight |
| Thickness | Can be Thick | Thin | Very Thin |
In conclusion, while plastic lenses dominate the market, glass remains a viable and desirable option for many eyeglass wearers, prized for its clarity and scratch resistance.
