Devices to improve eyesight in general have been around for hundreds of years. It was not until the 1800's that opera glasses achieved their position as a status symbol among theater-goers of the day.

It went far beyond simply getting a good look at the stage from the affordable seats. If you were at the opera you were also there to be seen. This was because it was an important social event. Because of this, many people spent just as much time looking at the audience as they did the stage. A simple and fashionable way of magnifying the action was needed and opera glasses were invented.

Opera glasses rapidly became status symbols and ways for people to show off their wealth. If you had the money to attend the opera you wanted others to know it. And a great deal of business was conducted at intermission as well. A huge portion of the high society social calendar was taken up by opera season.

People found ways to make the glasses much more ornate. They became an accessory that told a lot about the owner's social status. They often featured elaborate cases made of precious metals or that were highly enameled. Inlays of mother-of-pearl and other precious materials also became quite common. There were also several variations that became popular. They included the lorgnette, with a handle that allowed you to hold the glasses up to your face. There was also a folding version that was popular as it could be collapsed and stored in a purse or other case.

There are a number of places where you can find and purchase opera glasses. They still come in a range of different models and prices can range from the very reasonable to the extremely expensive. You may need to look a bit to find ones that fit your needs and your budget. Good starting places include camera stores and some Internet sites.

Before you decide which style you want you should make sure that the magnification factor is correct. You want to make sure that they are fairly low powered. High levels of magnification are best for binoculars and telescopic camera lenses. Most experts agree that you should look for a 3x magnification factor. You should stay away from a magnification factor of 5x or higher.

The actual style you choose is a matter of preference. Do you like the traditional look of the lorgnette? Are you interested in a style which folds down very small? You can also look at the accessories that are out there including straps and carrying pouches.

If visibility at concerts and plays is important to you, you should consider a pair of opera glasses. They are so much more than simply outdated viewing devices. They can find a way to make any stage performance you view clearer and much more rewarding.