[GemGeek]

Originally Posted by danachit

So then would yall say 10 X is strong enough? The one I'm looking at is a triplet corrected for spherrical and chromatic at 21mm. Do any of you have the newer LED lens? I was thinking it might be cool to have some light on the object. They said the feedback so far is really good on this lens.

I have 14x and 20x lighted loupes. They are good triplets, which should correct for both distortion at the edges and color issues. The light is terrific for most things but sometimes a nuisance. Fortunately, there is a switch, so you have a choice. Everyone wants to see it and try it when they see mine. They were a big hit in Tucson.

I suggest you get a 10x loupe (whether lighted or not). I bought mine from Southeastern Findings. You can call them and ask for the ten power lighted loupe. 800-282-8285. I think it's about $48.00. Get batteries at the same time. They're probably about $2.50 each

Or keep looking.

[Nerida]

Dana, thanks for starting this thread. I've been thinking about getting a loupe for ages now, and didn't know where to start. And last night, while I was sleeping, all of you good folks have answered all the questions I hadn't even asked yet! Thank you!

[GemGeek]

Originally Posted by Nerida

Dana, thanks for starting this thread. I've been thinking about getting a loupe for ages now, and didn't know where to start. And last night, while I was sleeping, all of you good folks have answered all the questions I hadn't even asked yet! Thank you!

Nerida, I have had the exact same thing happen. When it does, it's an unexpected delight -- someone does all the legwork for you!

[Nerida]

It would take me forever to find out this quality of information without the forum - I guess that's why we are all addicted!

[jerin]

Hi everyone,

I have 10 x and 20 x loupes, I have not seen 30 x yet. For gemstones and pearls 10 x is very well suited, 20 x could be used on pearl´s surfaces but it is too much for a diamond unless it is rather large.

A microscope would be even better but they are rather expensive. These microscopes you could get through GIA, magnifiers you can get with companies who sell jeweller´s equipment.

Mervione: I think I ordered my loupes from a company called Konrad Wahlström AB here in Sweden.

[Ashley]

Originally Posted by Valeria101

IMO, beyond 10X, a loupe w/o good optical correction is a HUGE headache. Literally a headache giver beyond half a minute of use or so (well, that's my tolerance level anyway).

After waiting time looking for something decent locally, I went and bought a good one: Gemology Pro from Harald Schneider.

20X gets very close and personal. However, it took borrowing time with a good microscope (~40X) to begin seeing treatment traces though Oh well...

Must agree with you there Valeria- I had a girl "pick one up" for me recently, and I can't stand it! There is close to zero correction on this lense, and it really strains my eyes

[jerin]

Hi Ashley and Valeria,

that is my impression too, using the 20x. It is really hard to focus and to watch for any longer amount of time seems to be impossible for me...