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A step bevel is a specialized cut made along the edge of a spectacle lens. It is used primarily on high minus (nearsighted) prescriptions that have very thick edges. The bevel creates a sharp, pronounced corner that allows the edge to be hidden or "stepped" behind the frame rim.
read more about step bevel on eyeglass lenses ...The main aesthetic purpose is to make the thick lens edge less noticeable. The step bevel is cut so that the thickest part of the lens is covered by the frame rim. This technique visually reduces the edge thickness, improving the overall look of the finished spectacles.
The step bevel requires precise mounting. The frame rim must fully cover the step cut. If the step is visible, it can look awkward and may weaken the lens structure. The lab must precisely measure the frame depth to place the step correctly.
A safety bevel is a tiny, gentle smoothing of the sharp edge for durability. A step bevel is a major, geometric cut designed to conceal lens thickness. They serve completely different purposes.
The step bevel attempts to hide thick lenses. Contact lenses eliminate the need for such cuts because they are ultra-thin and invisible, providing vision correction seamlessly without specialized cuts.
The step cut itself is visible inside the frame rim, but the technique is used to make the lens appear thinner from the outside.
No, it is generally used only for high minus prescriptions that have very thick edges.
The bevel removes material, so it can slightly weaken the lens. It is typically only performed on durable materials like polycarbonate.
Step beveling is a specialized lab technique for high-wrap sunglass frames. If your prescription is over -4.00 and you want "sporty" wrap glasses, ask your optician about step bevels. This allows a thick lens to fit into a thin, curved frame without "popping out" during activity.
Optical Laboratory Association. Surfacing and Finishing (ola-labs.org). 2024.
Review of Optometry. High-Index Dispensing Challenges (reviewofoptometry.com). 2024.
The Vision Council. Laboratory Processing Standards (thevisioncouncil.org). 2023.
ABDO. Glazing Techniques for Modern Lenses (abdo.org.uk). 2024.