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Convex pieces of glass and rock known as "reading stones" allow for people in this time period to see better. At this point, glasses are not wearable.
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Salvino D'Armate invents the first pair of WEARABLE eyeglasses in Pisa, Italy.
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European countries begin to experiment with different styles and shapes of frames during this time period, Germany being known for its "most superior" frames.
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Edward Scarlett creates the first pair of eyeglasses intended to be worn across the face, held above the ears.
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In the 18th century, monocles were produced and made very popular in European countries, especially in Germany and Russia by the mid-19th century.
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It was on this year that London optician Benjamin Martin crafted eyeglasses designed to lower the amount of blinding light that broke through the lenses to the wearer's eyes.
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Optician Addison Smith makes first spectacle patent in London for two additional lenses hinged above the distance correction and able to be adjusted for fitting. He made a total of four lenses.
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Benjamin Franklin, of the U.S.A., developes the first pair of bifocals. This allows the wearer to see through 2 types of lenses (one for up-close use, the other for far-away use).
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It was this year that theatre binoculars became popularly available; making sight of the stage very clear, even to those farthest back in the audience. Extentable versions very popular in the 50's.
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George Airy, British astronomer, creates the first lenses that actually correct astigmatism with the wearer.
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In this year, in Freiburg, Germany, the oldest spectacle case was discovered under the floorboards of an old townhouse. It was made of wood.
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