Can you actually see the laser inscribed number on the girdle?

[Ken Naw]

Can you actually see the laser inscribed certificate number on the girdle with a 10x loupe?

I don't have a loupe as yet, but with a mobile macro photo magnified to about 20X I can't see the IGI certificate number, just a seemingly plain girdle? So the number must be tiny, like a third of the height of the girdle?

Will I see it if I buy a quality 10x loupe triple lens?

 

[Dreamer_D]

Maybe as an expert user who can manipulate the viewing distance to increase magnification. But for most users no you won’t see it. A jeweler would use a microscope.

 

[Jax172]

I always have been able to

 

[Natylad]

Can you actually see the laser inscribed certificate number on the girdle with a 10x loupe?

I don't have a loupe as yet, but with a mobile macro photo magnified to about 20X I can't see the IGI certificate number, just a seemingly plain girdle? So the number must be tiny, like a third of the height of the girdle?

Will I see it if I buy a quality 10x loupe triple lens?

Correct, usually it is a tiny bit bigger than a third of the height of the girdle. It is very difficult to see under 10X magnification, especially if your eye is untrained.

 

[Ken Naw]

Managed to locate it with my mobile phone and cheap 8 dollar macro lens attachment.

The key is ensuring the angle of the light catches the inscription to provide enough contrast. Otherwise it's invisible.

Nailing autofocus is difficult too, so a series of shots to get the lettering sharp at such close quarters.

 

[Tonks]

I can see mine if I stack a 10x loupe with reading glasses. What’s bizarre is that my stone has two inscriptions—a GIA number and the A Cut Above logo. I can see the ACA logo clear as day, but the GIA number is much smaller and harder to read. I’ve strained my eyes enough to see it once, but usually if I just want to glance at an inscription, I find the ACA one.