Is there an at home tool for reading the etched Cert. number on diamond girdle?

[soontomarry2]

Are there any good tools for the at home novice diamond enthusiast to read the Certification number on the girdle of a diamond? The appraiser had to use a microscope to read ours. Can a 30x Jeweler''s Loupe do it?
I have looked at 30x Jeweler''s Loupes on Amazon.com but the comments for each state that they are not really 30x but more like 15x.

 

[stone-cold11]

search for inscription loupe?

 

[John P]

The size of the inscription depends on the size of the diamond/girdle, etching area and complexity of inscription. An 8-digit number on a 3ct RB with STK girdle will be seen more readily than someone's name, phone number and list of fears all crowded onto a 0.50ct's thin girdle.

Specific tools called diamond inscription loupes are available; suggested by SC above. These may set you back a few pennies, but work well for laymen who want a ready solution.

Those who want to learn to use jewelers' loupes must become familiar with viewing angle, distance and especially lighting. With practice most enthusiasts can make a 20X loupe work for nearly all inscriptions, but some of the most seasoned diamantaires I know keep a 30X on hand - often on the same chain as their beloved 10X. Standard loupes are plentiful and range from eBay-a-buck specials to extremely pricey high-end loupes. For those seeking practical examples at a good value Dave Atlas offers solutions (scroll down): http://www.datlas.com/tools.htm