Tools You Need
What Tools or Equipment Do You Need?
In the following list we have suggested the most basic tools and equipment you will need to complete a Gemstone Specification Lab Report and Print a satisfactory and accurate Certificate from Home or Work.
There is one single item which will be the Best Investment you will ever make in the field of Gemstone Identification and will help you complete an Appraisal Report.
Nothing here will cost more than a few dollars, but it could save you thousands.
The VERY first thing you need is this Gemstone Appraisals Online Center and everything in it....
We provide a HUGE amount of information both at the website and inside the software system itself, plus this site is constantly changing and upgrading with new articles and statistics including comments and feedback from other clients like yourself with a Question and Answer section devoted to your gemological queries being moderated by a qualified gemologist and former member of the Valuers Council. This is Invaluable...
You would do well to bookmark the Gemstone Appraisals Center into your Favorites list.
If you have previous documentation, that will certainly help.
The original store receipt or invoice from your jeweler, or even old Appraisal Certificates which are now out of date. They may all contain weights, quality and identification details about the gemstones you wish to value.
You will need TWO PIECES OF INEXPENSIVE equipment.
An Eyeglass and a Ruler.
We realize that you do not wish to become experts in the field of Gemology and Valuation Appraisals, but just need a few Hints and Tips as to a BASIC understanding on Diamonds, Sapphires, Gemstones and Opals for example.
The number ONE item - an Eyeglass.
No need for an expensive Jeweler's Loupe which can cost hundred's of dollars. A small plastic eyeglass will give you EXACTLY the same view as a professional item. They both have the same magnification. 10xtimes. This is the Standard equipment used by gemologists throughout the World, so don't complicate it.
The Professional Gemologist usually needs a slightly Sharper image which is undistorted, and that is why they pay so much money for their loupes.
For our needs though, a plastic 10x eyeglass is more than up to the task. They can be purchased cheaply and are widely available.
It is important to note, we do NOT mean a magnifying Glass like Sherlock Holmes uses. A large magnifying glass like that are not much good.... But if it helps, it's better than nothing!
The only other items we suggest is....
A child's plastic school ruler - preferably a clear see through one with metric measurements (sorry, feet and inches just won't do).
We will be adding to this list as we continue....
Just get the 10x Plastic eyeglass first.
