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If you want to take a closer look at a gemstone you will need to learn how to use a 10x loupe. This video will teach you the basic techniques of using a loupe confidently and correctly. The video is brought to you by Gem-A education in conjunction with Julia Griffith FGA DGA EG.
How to use a loupe and check for common malfunctions before buying one. Using a loupe incorrectly may put you in a weaker bargaining position when negotiating the price. This is because in the market incorrect use will identify you as someone out of the loop
How to Use a 10X Loupe
Using a loupe gracefully takes some practice but soon becomes second nature.
Before you focus on anything, consider the light around you.
- To evaluate cutting and polishing, you need to see the gem surface. Shine your light down on the stone. This is simple in a room with overhead lighting. If your best source is a window, position yourself so the light comes over your shoulder. Most importantly, avoid casting your shadow on the stone.
- To see the inclusions in a gem, you need to see the interior. Place your light behind the stone and shine through it.
With minimal adjustments and a little thought, you can often see both the surface and interior of a gem. Having too little light to see well is usually the only limitation.
When you open a hand loupe, the cover becomes a handle. To use your loupe, slide your index finger through the opening, push out the loupe, then brace the hand holding the handle against your cheek to steady it. Now, you only have one hand to move for focusing. Do the following:
- Keep both eyes open to reduce eye strain.
- Position the gem in front of the loupe.
- Next, move it slowly towards and away from the loupe until it comes into focus.
Practice adjusting the focus from the top surface to the far side. On a small gem, you can get the entire stone in focus at once. On a larger gem, you’ll have to focus on one area at a time.