Anatomy of a Frame

Now let's discuss the anatomy of a frame. It's important to understand the proper terminology for different parts of a frame in order to sound confident and competent as an optician. Here we will review the breakdown of the individual pieces that make up a frame. We will also review the different types of frames most commonly seen in your dispensary.

Now let's discuss the anatomy of the frame. In point one, we have the eye wires or rims. These are the front portion of the glasses where the lenses are inserted and held in the place.

Number two is the bridge. This is the arch piece in the front, center of the frames that rest on the wearer nose, and connects the eye wires. The bridge is designed to bear the most of the glasses weight.

Number three are the hinges. These are the slightly flexible parts of the end pieces, which allow the temples to fold inward. Some hinges are made with springs for more flexibility.

Number four is obviously the lenses.

Number five are the nose pads. These are most commonly on metal frames and they’re the small plastic or metal pieces secured under the bridge that help keep the frame in its proper position while providing comfort and a snug fit.

Number six are the pad arms. Attachments that hold the nose pads in place. They allow room for adjustments so the glasses fit the wearer’s natural face shape. Also meant to increase or decrease the vertex on a frame.

Number seven are the temples. These are the long pieces on the sides of the frames that extend over the ears to keep the glasses on the wearer’s face.

Number eight are the temple tips. These are the plastic coverings that cover where the temples rest behind the ears. They provide extra comfort to the wearer, especially on glasses with metal frames they have also been referred to as earpieces.

Number nine are simply the screws. These are the tiny metal fasteners found at hinges used to connect the front of the frame to the temple. Sometimes screws are found in the bridge to hold nose pads in place as well as the eyewear to hold lenses in place on metal frames.