What is acetate?
What are acetate sunglasses and why do we see them in luxury men's sunglasses? Is acetate plastic?
We got the answers for you.

Eyewear is not just a vision-correcting tool, but it is also a fashion statement. It is a reflection of your personality and style.

When it comes to choosing the right material for your eyewear, it is important to consider factors such as durability, flexibility, hypoallergenic properties, and environmental sustainability. While there are various materials available in the market, cellulose acetate stands out as the superior material for eyewear. Cellulose acetate is a premium material for eyewear.

 

What is Cellulose Acetate?

Cellulose acetate is a natural material made from wood pulp or cotton. By adding acetic acid, the cellulose is transformed into "cellulose acetate", also known as acetate. This material is then mixed with powdered dyes to produce a variety of colors. The material is passed through rolls to create large sheets of colorful cellulose acetate. Artisans then combine different colored pellets to create unique designs. Finally, a mold presses all the color combinations of pellets into blocks.

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Properties of Cellulose Acetate:
 

1. Durability and Strength:
   Cellulose acetate is strong and durable, making it perfect for eyewear. Unlike other plastic materials that are brittle and can easily break, cellulose acetate is flexible and can withstand pressure.
    

2. Hypoallergenic:
   Cellulose acetate is a hypoallergenic material, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin. It does not cause allergies to skin reactions.
    

3. Environmental Sustainability:
   Cellulose acetate is a natural material, and it is biodegradable. This makes it an environmentally sustainable option for eyewear.
    

4. Aesthetic Appeal:
   Cellulose acetate comes in a variety of colors and patterns, making it perfect for creating unique designs. Luxury eyewear brands often use cellulose acetate for their handcrafted eyewear.
    

Manufacturing Process

Cellulose acetate comes in slabs of different thicknesses, typically 4-10mm. Eyewear manufacturers order it from companies such as Mazzucchelli, a worldwide leader in the manufacturing and distribution of cellulose acetate. The slabs are then "CNC'ed" to the desired design pattern, sometimes laminated with two different acetates to create a unique design. The material is then inserted into a mold to adapt the curvature of the eyewear design. Finally, the material is cut, tumbled, polished, and assembled to create the finished product.

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Cellulose acetate is a premium material for eyewear that offers durability, flexibility, hypoallergenic properties, environmental sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. The manufacturing process is complex, which is why handcrafted eyewear made from cellulose acetate is typically associated with luxury brands. Choosing eyewear made from cellulose acetate is not only a fashion statement but also an eco-friendly choice that supports sustainable manufacturing practices.