A different number from index
Refractive index and Abbe value describe different properties. Abbe value relates to how much a material separates light into colours. Lower values mean greater dispersion, which some wearers notice as coloured edges when looking away from the lens centre.
The situation matters
ABDO describes colour fringes around high-contrast details and peripheral blur as possible effects. People vary in sensitivity. This does not mean that everyone will dislike a particular material, or that a single Abbe number predicts the entire wearing experience.
Make the complaint reproducible
Our suggested example is to tell the dispenser what object shows a fringe, which direction you are looking and whether the same effect occurs with your old glasses. Keep the comparison in ordinary viewing conditions; there is no need to invent a home pass-or-fail test.
Choose with the whole pair in mind
Ask how an alternative material would affect your specific pair’s thickness, weight, cost and intended use. A practical comparison is more useful than selecting the largest number from a chart. Keep a record of materials you have worn comfortably for future orders.
Sources & verification
Sources checked: