20x or 14x loupe? Help...

[gladstone]

Dave Atlas wrote:

1"30x is a very difficult loupe to use. It requires a very close focal point, has a relatively narrow field of view, less depth of field, and magnifies shaky hand motion. It is way too much magnification for diamond work. "

I have a good pair of eyes. I can see inscription on my cheap 10x loupe at home in good lighting. But when I go to the jewellery store for cleaning, I have a hard time finding it. I would like to ask the experts here on their opinion on 14x or 20x loupes.

I know the more magnification the loupe, the harder it is to use. I think 30x is over-do. So I am thinking about 14x or 20x. Please let me know if it''s a lot harder to use a 20x then 10x?

Thanks,

 

[Modified Brilliant]

It''s not that difficult using a 15x loupe from a 10x.

20x or 30x isn''t really necessary. Just my personal opinion.

welcome to PS

www.metrojewelryappraisers.com

 

[Richard Sherwood]

Yeah, I think the 14x is the way to go (over 20x).

The focal distance on a 20x feels too constraining.

I like 10x the best.

 

[DiamondExpert]

I agree with Rich....I''ve never been able not to see a laser inscription with a 10x loupe...of course, having a lot of experience and daily practice helps....soooooo for the casual visual perhaps a 14-15x would be best.