Smart Opals Maxi Loupe

This is the loupe that we use to check the opals during cutting. The large size of the loupe and the magnification level that it offers, makes this loupe so easy to use and a valuable tool for assessing the fine details in gemstones and jewellery.

Directions for use:

Position yourself under a light source that offers bright, direct light. This can be the sun or a lamp or downlight with a high output. Diffused light sources are difficult to use for this situation. If you are wearing a cap, take it off so the visor does not cast a shadow over your face.

Hold the loupe close to one eye, so your eye lashes are almost touching the glass on one side. Holding the loupe either way is fine - there is no front or back orientation for looking through the loupe.

Bring the opal up to the loupe so that you can see it appear in the field of view. Now bring the opal progressively closer to the loupe so that it comes in to focus. The distance from the face of the loupe to the opal will be approximately 25-30mm, or about the same depth as the loupe body.

The best way to view the detail of the surface of the opal is to orientate the opal face so that you are seeing the reflection of your light source on the surface of the opal. Think of it like viewing the reflection of the moon on a lake with no wind.