What are the frame materials for eyeglasses?

What materials are available for frames?

When it comes to choosing a pair of glasses, one of the things that people are most clear about is whether they prefer a “plastic” frame or a metal frame. What we often do not know is that within these two common terms encompasses several materials that we can choose for our new glasses frames and in this post we will know them in depth.

We invite you to read it to the end to know the characteristics of each frame and then choose your favorite using the filters of the web that you will find in the upper left corner.

Metallic frames

To situate ourselves, we are going to divide the frame materials into two large groups, the first being metal frames. In this group there are different metallic materials: titanium, stainless steel, monel, beryllium or aluminum.

We are going to focus on these three materials to explain in depth their characteristics and to evaluate which one is the best for you.

Aluminium Frames

The main characteristic of aluminum frames is its lightness and gains strength and hardness thanks to the incorporation of a bit of iron and silicone, which also adds a touch of robustness to the glasses.

One of the most common uses of aluminum in Eyewear is in surface finishing treatments and not so much in the complete manufacturing.

Aluminum is a material that we will see in robust, thick and heavier frames, but comfortable and light at the same time. It is one of the most durable materials, as long as we keep maintenance to a minimum.

Titanium frames

It is perhaps the most popular metallic material in recent years, especially among those who have some kind of allergy, since titanium frames are hypoallergenic.

In general, they have gained a lot of ground in the market for being a strong and durable material, resistant to corrosion and very light in weight.

It is also important to note that titanium is a material that can be dyed, which allows brands to offer a wide variety of colors as well as shapes.

At Vytria you will find more than a hundred models of titanium frames for all tastes. Some of our favorite brands are: Cazal, Theo, Cartier or Dita.

Stainless Steel frames

The main difference between stainless steel and other metallic materials for frames is its high resistance to corrosion, abrasion and high temperatures. Stainless steel frames are light and strong.

The main disadvantage of this material is not for the user, but for the manufacturer, since its manufacture requires a great effort due to the difficulty of welding it. Even so, it is true that it is cheaper than titanium and can be a good alternative.

Plastic frames

Within this group of plastic frames, better known as acetate frames or acetate frames, there are also different materials that are perhaps more unknown and the only thing we usually highlight is if it is a recycled acetate, but we do not go into more detail.

In general, plastic frames stand out for being more striking than metallic ones, with unique colors and bolder shapes. You know, if you are a more classic person, you will probably like titanium or steel glasses and if you are looking for something different, do not think twice, and visit our acetate glasses section.

Next, we are going to summarize in one line the main types of plastic materials that exist for glasses frames.

Cellulose acetate or Zyl frames

It is an economical material and can be found in a wide range of colors, which makes it especially attractive to manufacturers and customers.

Acetate propinate

The result is a light and robust material, resistant to skin acids, but little used.

Epoxy or Optyl resin spectacle frames

Thermoplastic epoxy resin frames were quite successful years ago for being very strong, but the frames are quite expensive to manufacture and have a very light thermal balance.

Nylon blend frames

Nylon frames are among the most resistant on the market, although they are not very flexible. Their main applications are for sports activities and children's glasses.

Types of frames at Vytria Eyewear

Now that you know a little more about the different types of materials available for eyeglass frames, we leave you with different options from three of our favorite brands: Cazal, Cartier, Theo, Cutler and Gross or Marni.

C de Cartier CT0164O 002, titanium frames

GR08 01 Cutler and Gross, acetate round glasses

5009 de Cazal, titanium eyeglasses

Orinoco de Marni, acetate optical frames

Face à Face Bocca Kuma, acetate glasses