jeweler's loupe

[jeeyun]

Hello. My fiance and I have just purchased a diamond online, and we've caught diamond fever.

We've done a lot of research, but I find that the more you know, the more there is to find out. Being a mathematician, I've found the details (especially the cut) of diamonds to be fascinating. So, I am searching for a jeweler's loupe to begin my diamond hobby. Does anyone have any recommendation on where to get a decent loupe and/or what I should be looking for in a good loupe?Thanks so much.Jeeyun

 

[Garry H (Cut Nut)]

Good loupes can cost +$100. But beware you may have the tools but get into lots more trouble than if you didnt.
Learning clarity is very difficult without 1000's of stones and an honest instructor.
In the end it is the cert that counts anyway.

 

[rodentman]

Agreed! I wouldn't personally attempt to grade a diamond. I know my status as novice at best very well. But the enhanced view helps in asking questions. I am taking my loose stone to my appraiser today. He will appraise it loose, and then add the setting to the appraisal once it is set, taking a photo of the final product. He's a good guy and does not sell anything but his services.

 

[pricescope]

Rodentman, who is your appraiser? People are asking about independent appraisers all the time...Let us know your experience please. I'm especially interested in the result because there are not so many EightStar diamonds out there.

 

[rodentman]

My appraiser's website is www.cgacompany.com I do not know how he would handle mail-in's etc. I also am not sure if he is familiar with Eightstar and would value the stone accordingly. I'll let you know. I don't plan on telling him anything about the diamond; I want to get a straight view from him. We'll see if he comments on the girdle inscription. I am not trying to "test" him; I have great respect for him, but not all appraisers know about super-ideals, H&A. I will post my results tomorrow.

 

[pricescope]

Thank you Rodentman...I checked the website and found very impressive credentials.Look forward for the results.(spelling!)

 

[rodentman]

I found one on eBay for $3.99 plus $2.00 shipping. If it is as in the photo it is the "real thing."

 

[jeeyun]

Thanks for the warning. I don't plan on choosing diamond purchases based on my observations. The two diamond purchases I've made were both GIA certified. I'm just fascinated by and curious about diamonds in general and want to study what I have and some pieces that my mother has handed down to me. Is there other equipment, besides a loupe and this nifty ideal-scope, that are interesting?