Diamond loupe?

[Kashmira]

I'd like to buy a diamond loupe as I'd like to look at the laser inscription on my diamond studs (they diamonds came with GIA dossier reports and I'd like to see what diamond belongs to what report). Does anyone know what loupe to buy?

 

[oldminer]

There are lots of 10x loupes, but we find consumers can read their inscriptions better with 20x more of the time. Spending more than about $25 including shipping is the maximum you should consider for only occasional use. SOme really poor ones are less costly, but you can barely use the real cheapo's.

 

[Kashmira]

Thanks for your reply . So 20x it is. Is it possible to buy such loupe on Ebay or are only the bad quality ones sold there?

 

[MonkeysInk]

I got a very inexpensive set from Amazon (and free shipping with my Prime membership). Total damage = $12. It came with a 10x, 20x and 30x. Probably not A++ quality, but good enough for me to see my inclusions and check my prongs.

 

[Rockdiamond]

If you want to buy from the place the trade buys tools from , look at Kassoy
http://www.kassoy.com/jewelers-loupes/

I agree- it's going to be easier to see the inscriptions with a 20 power- but for grading 10 power is the standard. The reason is that minor inclusions look HUGE with the 20x

 

[mynattk]

I found this eBay guide to be informative:

http://reviews.ebay.com/Jewelers-Loupe-tips-on-choosing-the-one-you-need_W0QQugidZ10000000000035147