Consider what a blessing polarized sunglasses are for people today. Imagine the time when Emperors had to use expensive but uncomfortable polished gemstones to cut the glare.
The sunglasses available today improve clarity and reduce the tiredness of eyes during those sunny Australian days. It is a staple to protect oneself from the harsh sun. Research proves that prolonged exposure to these UV rays can even cause blindness in some. And the glamour they offer is just a bonus.
What are polarised sunglasses?
The design serves to filter light. Think of blinds that let in only a certain amount of light. Similarly, these sunglasses let in light only through the vertical openings. It will block all other light. So, no need to squint at the sun’s glare from a car window or bouncing off the water. When wearing these, one can rest assured they will not be bothered by such blinding light.
Like all things and their past, sunglasses, too, have an intriguing history. They have travelled through time and proved themselves indispensable across geographical distances, climates, and eras.
Were snow goggles the beginning?
The Inuits were some of the first group of people to use sun goggles to cover their eyes. It was essential for daily living as the rays reflecting from the pristinely white snow could be blinding.
What was used to make these? To answer this question, a combination of different things like ivory, driftwood, bone, and antlers came together. A thin slit on the contraption helped the user to see things better. They were cut to fit the face perfectly and sometimes covered in soot. The substance helps it absorb more light.
The Regal Romans:
Apart from the Inuits, people from other parts of the world had new-fangled ideas to protect their eyes. Nero, the Roman Emperor, was known to use something made out of polished gemstones to help him see the gladiator fights. These objects reduced the glare from the sunlight. It was an expensive but ineffective solution for protection.
Role in the 12th Century:
In China, people came up with a solution made of quartz. It was smoke-tinted and was a flat plane shape. Magistrates used them in courts. Wherein arose the interesting rumour that people wore them not to block the light but to conceal expressions.
Presence in the 18th Century:
Around this time is when it took a basic shape. The structure people are familiar with came to be around this time. The lenses in these were held together using wires and a sturdy frame. The latter held it securely behind the ears.
James Ayscough founded the coloured lens version. He considered them as a genius solution to deal with vision impairment. He carried out experiments using green or blue-tinted glasses to study their impact on eyesight. He never saw it coming how much of an impact he made on the future generations.
The Modern Look:
The first time that people used sunglasses for sun protection was during the beginning of the 20 century. Syphilis patients wore brown or yellow-tinted glasses under the doctor’s recommendation. The disease made them hypersensitive to light, so these glasses helped them with their condition.
After a few decades, the image of sunglasses changed to represent that of high fashion. Movie stars and celebrities were often spotted wearing them. And gradually, people realized how useful they are daily.
Sunglasses in Australia are a requirement more than a fashion choice. Polarised sunglasses especially are perfect for fishing trips, outdoor BBQs, and any activity out in the sun.
