Our name “Lumete” (prounounced "lou-met") is derived from the words lumen and amulet. The Renaissance alchemical concept of Lumen Naturae refers to the light hidden in all matter, which alchemists believed could be released and transformed through their work. An amulet is a precious object used for protection and luck. Sunglasses are beautiful amulets that adorn your face, protect your eyes, and help you see clearly. Metaphorically, they connect your inner vision and your perception of the world.
Our brand and our collection are inspired by alchemical and Gnostic symbolism and we seek to instill that sense of wonder and reverence to every piece we make.
Lumete's vision and designs derive from Clara Herrera's eclectic mix of academic and aesthetic influences, which range from Gnostic philosophical motifs, seventeenth-century alchemy, Tarot symbolism and South American shamanism to Surrealist cinema, Art Noveau decorative arts and Pre-columbian craftwork.
“I have always been fascinated by sacred symbols, icons and ceremonial artifacts. I am moved not only by their beauty but also by the stories that produced them and the imaginative possibilities they offer. My creative process and my designs are heavily informed by symbolism and allegory. I am inspired to create objects that are beautiful and functional, yet imbued with a defiant idealism and a sense of reverence. Essential and emblematic, I approach eyeglasses as a sacred object. Having worn them since age four, I believe that eyeglasses are an integral part of one’s identity and expression.” - Lumete designer, Clara Herrera
Please visit our Inspiration board on Pinterest!
The Collection
Each style in Lumete’s sunglasses collection symbolizes a motif or stage in a journey toward illumination.
Attic Safari stands for curiosity and discovery. It seeks to invoke the feeling of entering a dusty attic and marveling at the forgotten heirlooms and memory-steeped artifacts therein.
Dramolete was inspired by the image of a sun-drunk butterfly fluttering into wakefulness. It represents the moment when inspiration becomes action.
Oummaa symbolizes the swirling of the individual imagination with the creative force.
Ulula represents self-knowledge. Inspired by the bird of wisdom, the frame evokes an owl on her throne, contemplating the world.
Templanza was inspired by the XIIII card of the Tarot of Marsaille, Temperance. It symbolizes Harmony, moderation and the synthesis of opposites.
Vedrina represents Serenity as a state arising from silent contemplation.