Discover whether real glass lenses are safe for everyday eyewear. Explore clarity, durability, and when glass lenses are the right choice.
All About Lenses
Resource Center
Welcome to your complete resource for glass eyewear.
From lens materials to prescription types, coatings, and replacements — this is where customers can learn, compare, and choose with confidence.
Vision Need
Compare solutions depending on how you see:
- Single Vision
- Bifocal
- Trifocal
- Progressive (No-line)
Simple breakdowns of strength ranges, best use cases, and comfort.
Compare Vision Types
Lens Material
Lens Materials
Understand the difference between optical options:
- 1.53 Crown Glass — classic clarity and scratch resistance
- 1.60 High Index Glass — thinner for moderate prescriptions
- 1.70, 1.80, 1.90 High Index Glass — made for strong prescriptions
- Transitions / Photogray — lenses that darken in sunlight
- Tinted & Mirror Coatings — style + performance
Learn how lens index affects weight, thickness, and appearance.
Replacement Glass Lenses
Already love your frames?
Send them in — we install new premium glass lenses.
- Fast turnaround
- No need to buy new frames
- Prescription & non-prescription options
- Safety, sunglasses, and fashion frames
How Replacement Works
How do you Measure your Pupillary Distance?
How important is pupillary distance for your specific prescription and lenses? We’ll explain here so you can understand your
prescription and feel confident when placing your order.
Pupillary Distance (PD) is the distance from the center of one pupil to the center of the other. Glasses manufacturers use your PD to ensure the optical center of each lens is positioned correctly in front of the pupil so you can see clearly without straining your eyes.
Your eye doctor might include your PD on your prescription, but if not, you can ask them to measure it or do it yourself.
Learn How to Measure your PD on your own.
Lens Material - Complete Details of all the indexes.
Premium glass lenses with superior clarity, durability, and natural scratch resistance. Shop Glass Lens Eyewear's broad selection of lens features & options in Single Vision, Bifocal, Trifocal and Progressive multi-focal glass lenses.
We offer 1.53, 1.60, 1.70, 1.80 and 1.90 index glass lenses in a variety of frame shapes, sizes and colors and a full range of replacement glass lenses only.
Compare Glass Lens Index Specifications
How do I determine my Segment Height?
Segment height is the vertical distance (in millimeters) from the bottom of the lens to the top edge of the bifocal segment.
If you don't have the glasses or know the measurement, it is not necessary to enter a segment height when purchasing.
Our lab has over 50 years of optical experience with creating progressive lenses. We use a very accurate progressive lens formula that is precisely calculated to the frames you order. Our formula is
accurate in most cases.
How to Determine Your Segment Height
How do you Find the Size of Glasses?
The numbers inscribed on the inside of the arm are eyeglass measurements. They’re one way to find a glasses size that feels comfortable on your face and does a good job of correcting your vision. Differences of just a few millimeters can significantly change how glasses look and feel on your face, so they can be an important part of getting to know your eyewear.
Want to know your glasses size? We’ll teach you how to read and take these measurements, as well as how to pick out some perfectly sized frames.
Learn How to find the size you need for glasses
What do the numbers on my prescription mean?
You’ve gone to the optometrist, had your eye exam, and now it’s time to get your prescription. When you look at it, though, you’re perplexed—what do all these letters and numbers mean? How do they tell you what kind of glasses you should get? How to Read your Eyeglasses Prescription?
Not to worry. Eye prescriptions can be confusing, but we’ll explain all of their different parts so you know how to read one. Not only will it help you understand your eyewear better, it also makes for an extremely practical party trick.
Learn How to Read your Prescription
How do I know what Reading Power I need?
In today’s digital age, many of us spend countless hours reading—whether it’s books, articles, or screens. For avid readers, whether for work or leisure, the importance of having a pair of high-quality reading glasses cannot be overstated.
While there are numerous options on the market, investing in a pair of glass lens reading glasses offers exceptional benefits that make them worth every penny. If you value eye comfort, exceptional optics, and durability, here’s why you should consider investing in quality glass lens reading glasses.
How to Determine Your Reading Power
How to Clean Glasses in 5 Easy Steps
How to Clean Eyeglasses in 5 Easy Steps
- Wash your hands to remove dirt and oils.
- Rinse the glasses under lukewarm water to wash away dust.
- Apply a drop of mild dish soap to each lens.
- Gently rub the lenses and frames with your fingers.
- Rinse and dry with a clean microfiber cloth. 👓✨
Learn How to clean your glasses
How to Choose the Right Glasses for Your Face Shape
When picking out a pair of glasses, you’ll probably be weighing a long list of factors, from color to size to fit. As you narrow your search for the perfect frames, there’s one more aspect you might want to consider: your face shape.
Knowing which face shape you have can help you choose glasses that suit you. Certain frames can accentuate the features you most want to highlight, or work with the natural lines and angles of your face to create a well-balanced look.
Learn How to Choose the Right Glasses for Your Face Shape
How to Find the Perfect Frame Size for Your Face
Knowing your glasses measurements can be useful when it’s time to get a new pair. If you have some old, well-loved frames, then their measurements are often a great starting point for your browsing. But measurements aren’t the only factor that matters, and they shouldn’t completely dictate your style decisions. They’re helpful guidelines when searching for the frames your heart desires.
Learn How to Find the Perfect Frame Size for Your Face
Photogray Extra Glass Lenses
Your job may require having to go indoors and outdoors on a regular basis. Delivery jobs, or working in warehouses frequently requires having to go outside regularly and back indoors while transporting items. The last thing you want is to have to switch glasses every time you go outside.
Using photochromic or photogray extra glass lenses, you can finally get eye protection without taking risks with your eyesight. When you consider exposure to UV rays could cause cataracts later in life, protecting your eyes at all times is essential.
Learn all about Photogray Extra Glass Lenses
Photobrown Extra Glass Lenses
Our Photobrown Extra glass lenses utilize advanced photochromic technology, transitioning seamlessly from clear to dark in sunlight. UV Protection: They offer complete UV protection, safeguarding your eyes in various lighting conditions.
Photobrown Extra glass prescription lenses provide true HD optics with the Highest Abbe Value on the market, meaning less distortion and an overall clearer view.
Learn all about Photobrown Extra Glass Lenses
Corning Thin and Dark Photochromic Glass Lenses
Everyone wants high quality glasses. There are tons of different frames, and it seems as though every fashion designer is getting into offering something. However, in the end, it is all about the lenses that go into the frames.
Corning Thin & Dark glass lenses are technologically advanced transition lenses that make it easier to go from indoors to outdoors without having to make the switch to a different pair of glasses.
Learn all about Corning Thin and Dark Photochromic Glass Lenses
Lens Coatings
Explore an array of cutting-edge lens coatings tailored for prescription safety glasses, eyeglasses, and sunglasses at Glass Lens Eyewear. Each lens coating is designed to serve a distinctive purpose, enhancing both lens performance and visual clarity.
Delve into a wealth of advantages while exploring our wide selection of lens coatings. Whether you seek improved clarity, minimized glare, or heightened durability, our diverse range of coatings guarantees a personalized and superior visual experience tailored to your specific needs.
Learn all about our variety of Lens Coatings
Lens Colors
At Glass Lens Eyewear, we take pride in offering a diverse array of lens colors that seamlessly balance functionality and style. Whether you prioritize practicality or crave a fashion-forward look, our carefully curated selection ensures you’ll discover the perfect lens to elevate your eyewear experience. Explore the possibilities below and find the ideal blend of form and function at Glass Lens Eyewear.
Learn all about our variety of Lens Colors
Prescription Lens Types
The right lenses can quite literally make or break your glasses. They correct your vision, protect your eyes, and (with certain coatings) stand up to everything from scratches to UV rays.
But not every pair of glasses has the same type of lenses. The best lenses for your glasses will depend on your prescription and unique visual needs, as well as whatever additional benefits you’d like to get from your frames.
Learn all about Prescription Lens Types
Single Vision Glass Lenses
Single vision lenses are the most prevalent type of corrective lens,
with an estimated 64% of adult Americans either currently using them or likely to need them in the future.
This prevalence is particularly notable among adults in their 20s and 30s, who commonly experience nearsightedness or farsightedness – the two vision impairments that are most effective at correcting.
These lenses not only enhance reading capabilities but also significantly improve the clarity of distant objects, making them a popular choice for everyday use.
Learn all about Single Vision glass lenses
Progressive Glass Lenses
Progressive no-line bifocal lenses were originally developed to provide a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional lined bifocals. By eliminating the visible dividing line, they offer a cleaner, more modern lens appearance.
Beyond aesthetics, progressive lenses are technologically advanced, seamlessly integrating multiple vision zones into a single lens. This design allows for smooth transitions between distance, intermediate, and near vision—delivering natural visual correction without abrupt image jumps. The result is a more comfortable, functional, and visually appealing solution for everyday wear.
Learn all about Progressive glass lenses
FT-28 Bifocal Glass Lenses
Flat Top 28 bifocal lenses, commonly referred to as FT-28, are a specialized type of corrective eyewear designed for individuals who need clear vision at both distance and near ranges. These lenses feature a distinctive flat-top “D”-shaped segment positioned at the bottom of the lens. Measuring 28 mm in width, this segment is dedicated to near-vision tasks, while the remainder of the lens is optimized for distance viewing.
Learn all about FT-28 Bifocal glass lenses
Double Segment Glass Lenses
Our Double Segment Glass Lens are unique due to their uncommon placement of vision zones such as far, near, and immediate.
These handy glasses will make your important tasks much easier to complete.
Professions such as welding, auto mechanics, construction workers, and factory workers widely benefit from double segment bifocal safety glasses as they provide the full range of vision correction with the ability to see accurately whether looking up, down, or forward.
Learn all about Double Segment Glass Lenses
Glass Trifocal Lenses
Glass trifocal lenses provide three distinct vision zones—distance,
intermediate, and near—delivered with the exceptional clarity and
scratch resistance that only real glass can offer. Designed for wearers who need clear focus at multiple distances, trifocal glass lenses feature two visible lines that separate each segment for precise, easy-to-locate viewing areas. They are ideal for anyone who frequently switches between computer work, reading, and distance tasks and prefers the sharp, long-lasting performance of glass.
Learn all about Glass Trifocal Lenses
VS Eyewear Resource Catalogs
VS Eyewear is a leading innovator in optical solutions, dedicated to delivering high-quality eyewear products and services. As the parent company of Glass Lens Eyewear, VS Eyewear provides strategic oversight, industry expertise, and operational support that empower Glass Lens Eyewear to excel in specialty lens replacement and customization services.
Leveraging decades of experience in materials science, precision optics, and customer-centric service, VS Eyewear ensures that Glass Lens Eyewear maintains the highest standards of craftsmanship, clarity, and performance. Together, they bring superior vision solutions to eyewear wearers who expect durability, comfort, and optical excellence.
Anti Fog Permanent Lens Coating
We understand that clear vision is essential to maintaining safety in demanding environments. That’s why we offer our advanced anti-fog permanent coating, engineered to deliver consistent clarity and elevate your visual performance.
Our innovative coating works at the molecular level, preventing moisture from condensing into vision-blocking fog. By disrupting the formation of water droplets on the lens surface, this technology ensures long-lasting clarity—so your lenses stay clear, your vision remains sharp, and your focus stays where it matters most.
Learn about Anti-Fog Permanent Coating
Anti-Reflective Lens Options
In today’s digital age, many of us spend a significant amount of time in front of screens, whether it’s for work, entertainment, or staying connected. This increased screen time has led to concerns about eye strain, fatigue, and potential long-term effects of exposure to blue light emitted by digital devices.
To address these concerns, eyewear technologies such as anti-reflective coatings and blue light filters have emerged. We will explore the benefits of both technologies and help you make an informed decision to optimize your digital eyewear experience.
Learn about Anti-Reflective Coatings
Glass Lens Eyewear Blog
Head over to Glass Lens Eyewear’s blog to explore a range of informative and practical articles designed to help you understand everything about quality eyewear and lenses. The blog features recent posts on topics such as how to choose the right glass lens refractive index, insights into prescription safety glasses, and tips for selecting eyewear that offers the best clarity and comfort. Whether you’re curious about different lens materials, eye protection solutions, or improving your everyday vision experience, the blog is a great resource to stay informed and make confident decisions about your eyewear needs.
Head over to our Blog Articles
Flex Spending
Flex Spending Accounts (FSAs) allow you to use pre-tax funds to purchase prescription eyewear. This includes prescription glasses, prescription sunglasses, reading glasses, and replacement prescription lenses, including real glass lenses from Glass Lens Eyewear.
To do so, ensure to choose items labeled as health benefit-eligible, as these qualify for payment using your FSA/HSA benefits. Please note that this is not determined by Glass Lens Eyewear, but by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). They determine reimbursable expenses, which typically include vision and prescription expenditures. Certain items can require a doctor’s note (“Letter of Medical Necessity”) to be eligible.
Learn about Flex Spending
Vision Insurance
Many vision insurance plans allow reimbursement for out-of-network eyewear purchases. If your plan includes out-of-network benefits, you may be eligible to submit a claim for your Glass Lens Eyewear prescription glasses or sunglasses.
To address these concerns, eyewear technologies such as anti-reflective coatings and blue light filters have emerged. We will explore the benefits of both technologies and help you make an informed decision to optimize your digital eyewear experience.
Learn about Out-of-Network Vision Insurance
Polarized Glass Lenses
Polarized glass lenses offer the highest clarity, longest durability, best scratch resistance, and superior glare reduction of any sunglass lens option. They are the premium choice for customers seeking exceptional outdoor performance and visual comfort.
Polarized glass lenses are sun lenses made from real glass that include a special polarizing filter. This filter blocks intense horizontal light—also known as glare—reflected from water, roads, windows, snow, or metal surfaces.
Learn about Polarized Glass Lenses
Shipping Information
At Glass Lens Eyewear, we’re committed to getting your glasses and accessories delivered quickly, safely, and affordably. Our Shipping Information page outlines all the details you need to know about delivery times, shipping costs, order tracking, and international shipping — so you can shop with confidence.
Learn about Shipping Information
Shipment Tracking
At Glass Lens Eyewear, we make it easy to track your order from the moment it leaves our facility until it arrives at your door. Every shipment—whether sent through USPS, UPS, or FedEx 2Day—includes real-time tracking, so you always know exactly where your package is and when to expect delivery.
Learn about Shipment Tracking
Prescription Safety Glasses
Glass Lens Eyewear offers one of the industry’s most complete selections of prescription safety glasses with real glass lenses—crafted for professionals who demand unmatched optical clarity, scratch resistance, and long-term durability. Unlike standard plastic or polycarbonate options, our premium glass lenses deliver exceptional visual performance while meeting the strict protective requirements of workplaces, laboratories, medical environments, industrial settings, and more.
Learn about our Glass Safety Glasses
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our products and services
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Glass lenses provide superior optical clarity, a higher Abbe value, and natural scratch resistance. They deliver sharper, more accurate vision with less color distortion and are ideal for customers who want crystal-clear performance and long-term durability from their eyewear.
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Yes. Glass lenses are naturally harder than plastic or polycarbonate, which makes them highly resistant to everyday scratches from dust, grit, or cleaning. This is a major advantage for people who want lenses that stay clear longer without coatings.
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Glass lenses can be slightly heavier, especially in stronger prescriptions. To keep your glasses comfortable, we recommend smaller round or oval frames, or frames with adjustable nose pads. High-index glass options (1.70, 1.80, 1.90) also help reduce thickness.
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Glass lenses work for almost all prescription ranges, but we recommend:
- 1.53 & 1.60 for mild prescriptions (below +/- 4.00)
- 1.70 & 1.80 for moderate prescriptions (+/- 4.00 to +/- 8.00)
- 1.80 & 1.90 for strong prescriptions (+/- 8.00 or higher)
Choosing the correct index makes the lens thinner and more comfortable.
- 1.53 & 1.60 for mild prescriptions (below +/- 4.00)
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Absolutely. You can ship us your frame, and we install brand-new glass lenses:
- No need to buy a new frame
- Fast turnaround
- Premium materials and coatings available
This is ideal for anyone who wants premium glass lenses in frames they already love.
- No need to buy a new frame
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Pricing varies by lens index and prescription strength. Standard 1.53 and 1.60 glass lenses are the most affordable, while high-index 1.80 and 1.90 lenses cost more due to advanced material, thin design, and premium optical clarity. We always provide transparent pricing and clear upgrade options so you can choose what fits both your vision and your budget.
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All returns require a Returned Material Authorization (RMA) number. We have a few methods for you to contact us for your request:
- Go to your order and select Request Return. This is in your account or on the order confirmation mailed to you. MAKE sure you type the reason for the return.
- Contact our customer service representative via email at sales@glasslenseyewear.com to obtain an RMA number prior to returning the product.
- Go to our Live Chat at glasslenseyewear.com and request to speak to a rep to receive a RMA number.
- Call us at 484.773.0285 to speak with one of our courteous representatives.
Products will not be accepted for return if not accompanied by a valid RMA number, which must be clearly marked on the outside of the package or included in the package. Products returned without a RMA will be sent back to the customer as is.
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ORDER CANCELLATION
No prescription order can be canceled once it enters our lab; however, if you wish to cancel your order before it goes into the lab (usually in less than one business day), there might be a $15 cancellation fee to account for clerical time and card processing fees.
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Yes, you can simply make a purchase as a Guest. However, if you choose to create an account, you will be able to save your prescription information and other preferences that will make future shopping at Glass Lens eyewear simpler and more convenient.
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Most competitors do not own their own lab and must purchase your prescription lenses from an outside optical lab. Our supplier houses two full prescription optical labs, one for plastic and the other for glass. Because of this, we cut out the middle-man, allowing us to offer lower retail prices.
BLOG POSTS
Wraparound Prescription Safety Glasses: Complete Protection Without Compromising Clarity
Posted on January 16 2026
When it comes to protective eyewear, you shouldn’t have to choose between sharp vision and full safety coverage. VS Eyewear wraparound prescription safety glasses are designed to deliver both—combining crystal-clear optics, all-around eye protection, and all-day comfort in a modern, secure design.
Glass Lens Index Comparison: 1.53 vs 1.60 vs 1.70 vs 1.80 vs 1.90
Posted on January 15 2026
Choosing the right glass lens refractive index is essential for comfort, appearance, and optical performance. Higher-index glass lenses bend light more efficiently, allowing lenses to be thinner and lighter—especially important for stronger prescriptions.
