Buying a loupe?

[Angel7]

I would really like to purchase a loupe or even better get one for free. Hee, hee!

1.Is there anything I need to know about purchasing one?(Are there different types)
2.Where could I find one?

Sorry, I''m a newbie learning about diamonds/gems and would really like one to look at all the exisiting pieces I own.

Thanks for all your help!

 

[cflutist]

Here is a webpage about loupes that you might find interesting.

Otto Frei sells tools and findings to the trade and has loupes from $15 - $47.
They can be found here. I have the B & L one.

 

[sjz]

Years ago I asked my local jeweler to order one for me, and she did. It cost about $50 back then, but it was a professional quality loupe. It''s been a very valuable little gizmo, and I love having one of my own. I''ve used it to check the prongs on my stones frequently, and always take it with me when I go shopping (just in case...

). It came with a cute little leather case to store it in, which I still have as well.

I also got one from Whiteflash when I bought a diamond from them. I gave that one to my mom, since she was always asking me to "loupe" her diamonds and check the prongs for her.

 

[Angel7]

Cflutist-Thank you very much, that article was great. Loved the slideshow on how to use the loupe because I would have been one of those fools who does it wrong.-Also am checking out the website you provided to purchase one.

Sjz-I will see if Whiteflash or PS sells them as well.


Thanks for the help, I really appreciate it!

 

[ame]

I own a Belomo 10x and a 30x (couldn''t tell you a brand). I use the 30x all the time.

 

[bluedawg]

I bought a brand new, in case, 10mm loupe on ebay for $5. Works like a charm.

Here''s another, but hurry-- auction''s almost over.