Sunglasses or sun glasses are a form of protective eyewear
designed primarily to prevent bright sunlight and high-energy visible light
from damaging or discomforting the eyes. They can sometimes also function as a
visual aid, as variously termed spectacles or glasses exist, featuring lenses
that are colored, polarized or darkened. In the early 20th century they were
also known as sun cheaters (cheaters being an American slang term for glasses).
But no matter what you call them, all sunglasses share the same nomenclature and
anatomy (see below.)
1. BRIDGE: The area
that arches up over the nose between the lenses thus supporting the majority of
the glasses weight. There are several different types of bridges:
A keyhole bridge is
shaped like an old-fashioned keyhole and rests on the sides of the upper part
of the nose. This style is best suited for those with small or flat-topped
noses.
A saddle bridge is
shaped like a saddle and spreads the weight of the frame across the sides and
the top of the nose. This style works well for heavy glasses or for those with
sensitive noses. Note: (1) An adjustable bridge includes
nose pads that can be bended and moved for fit and comfort. Note: (2) A double bridge has
a reinforcing bar over the top of the bridge.
2. END PIECES: The
portions of the frame front that extend outward from the lenses and connect to
the temples.
3. EYE WIRES/ RIMS: Part
of the frame front into which the lenses are inserted.
4. HINGES: Portion of
the frame that connects the frame front to the temples and allows the temples
to fold inward in a closing motion.
5. LENSES: Clear
glass, plastic, or polycarbonate eyeglass parts which hold a wearer’s
prescription.
6. NOSE PADS: Plastic
pieces which may be attached directly to the frame or pad arms. These help keep
the frame in its proper position on the wearer’s face, while providing comfort
and a snug fit.
7. PAD ARMS: Attachments
that hold the nose pads in place; typically allowing adjustments so that they
may conform to the wearer’s nose.
8. RIMLESS FRAMES/ MOUNTINGS: (Not pictured) When the temples and bridge attach by mountings, or
metal fixatives, directly to the lenses without the use of eye-wires or rims.
9. SCREWS: Tiny metal
fasteners found at eyeglass hinges which connect the temples to the frame
front; and on the bridge, which hold the nose pads in place.
10. SWEAT BAR/ TOP BAR: Metal
bar that rests over the bridge, between the two lenses, to provide extra
support; not present in all sunglass models, but is common in aviator styles.
11. TEMPLES: “Arm”
pieces of the frame that extend over and/or behind the ears to help hold the
frame in place. There are several types of temples:
- Skull temples are
most popular for plastic frames. They appear bent down slightly over the ear
and follow the contour of the skull.
- Comfort-cable temples hook
behind the ear with a flexible metal cable. These are suitable for children’s
styles and sport-safety glasses.
- Riding bow temples are
similar to comfort-cables, except they are rigid and made of plastic.
- Spring-hinged temples include
hidden springs in the hinges that help keep the frame from slipping. These are
typically more resistant to breakage.
- Library (or paddle)
temples are straight, so they can be slipped on and off easily. This type
is often used in reading glasses.
12. TEMPLE TIPS: Plastic
coatings that often cover the ends of the temples behind and over the ears to
provide wearer comfort. Their use is common in regard to metal glasses.
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Mercury™ Sunglasses are 100% UV Protected and feature impact
resistant acrylics, polarized, distortion-free polycarbonate or glass lenses –
depending on the specific model. Our polymer and metal alloy frames are
durable, strong and feature a lifetime warrantee. Various models even
boast spring-temple arms to keep them securely in place. But most
importantly, Mercury™ Sunglasses are fashionable – allowing consumers to
accentuate their signature style.
Toronto-based Mercury™ sell and wholesale Men’s, Women’s and Children’s
Sunglasses designed to seduce the senses – and ultimately sell. We are
born in Canada and worn by the world. Find your Mercury™ today on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for our latest information,
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