30x Loupe

[centralsquare]

Hi All - I purchased a 30x loupe so that I could read the AGS number and/or identify the inclusions in my new earrings so that I could tell the difference between the two stones in my earrings. I can see the AGS number, but can in no way read it...it is too small. I can''t make out the inclusions either. Is 30x not enough to see such things? The stones are SI1s so I was expecting to at least be able to see inclusions. Is there a trick to seeing the number or inclusions?

This is the loupe I purchased: https://products.gemappraisers.com/pc-33-1-professional-gem-loupes-10x-20x-30x.aspx

 

[Bosie]

Go to jeweler and have them find it with 100x lens of microscope.

 

[denverappraiser]

Practice helps. 30x is plenty. Hold the lens about an inch away from your eye and hold the stone in a pair of tweezers about an inch away from the lens. Sit up straight so that your head doesn’t shadow the light and it’s easiest with a black or white background. Use your dominant eye but keep both eyes open or it'll give you a headache quickly.

Neil Beaty
GG(GIA) ICGA(AGS) NAJA
Professional Appraisals in Denver

 

[Bosie]

Neil
It might be tough with a 30x loupe on a small stone, on a stone 1ct and above, the 30x loupe should do the trick, but the OP said it was earrings, which could be much smaller.