Mineral glass is quartz sand of natural origin in molten form, which includes various additives. It is characterized by properties such as radiation resistance and strength, abrasion resistance, as well as excellent optical properties. In addition, it is a kind of barrier to ultraviolet radiation. Due to these characteristics, mineral glass is often used in watches, glasses, on phones, etc.
Of all the materials that are used in the manufacture of the described products, it is much lighter.
amenable to processing due to its strength. However, it must be borne in mind that mineral glass is sensitive to all kinds of scratches, which can appear even from frequent contact with clothes made of hard cloth. This material is easy to polish, but in some situations it is easier to replace it completely than to try to return to its previous appearance. If we are talking about the optical industry, it is worth saying that due to its properties not only the frame, but also the lens itself helps to ensure the strength of the glasses.
Almost 90 percent of watch dials are protected from this material. It is believed that through it it is more convenient to distinguish readings on a designer watch when the color of the hands merges with the shade of the case itself. Apparently, precisely because of the widespread use of the people, mineral glass is usually called "ordinary". Its popularity is due to the fact that it can withstand sufficient loads, remaining intact or, in extreme cases, a crack appears in the product. Used modern technology can make it more resistant even to mechanical damage. Another of the materials used in the manufacture of watches is sapphire crystal. It is much more expensive than described and more scratch resistant. However, visually distinguishing between these two species is almost impossible,
therefore, be especially careful when choosing your watch.
Large stocks of raw materials, ease of processing led to the fact that the cost of this product is very low, so it is produced in large quantities, and you can make a product of any size on order.
However, it should be borne in mind that mineral glass is not used in the manufacture of glasses for drivers and children. This is due to the fact that with a strong blow it can break into small fragments and damage, for example, the lens of the eye. There were cases when, when the airbag was turned on, the glasses were smashed to smithereens, damaging the face. For the same reason, mineral glass products should not be bought by people who prefer outdoor activities. In addition, mineral glass has a sufficiently large weight, which can lead to unpleasant sensations when using lenses from it. With the introduction of metal salts in the manufacturing process, it is possible to achieve the desired shade. So, nickel salts color the glass purple, cobalt blue, selenium and copper red. Combinations of various additives make it possible to obtain lenses of not only different colors, but also with varying degrees of light transmission, due to which the UV component of the radiation is cut off.