Gem equipment and tools

wikum De Silva
Jan 4, 2024
2 min read

If you are are a beginner in the the field of buying or selling gems, these tools may help you to make better decisions.

Below list is somewhat mandatory

10x gem loupe or head visor
Gem weight scale
Tweezers
RI machine ( optional )
Gem cloth
A small pouch

The above list is a good set for beginner or even experienced gem dealers.

The 10x gem loupe is a must . When you are buying gems in busy markets, you can't see every minute detail of the gemstone with your naked eyes. For that you need some type of magnification and a 10x gem loupe is the handiest gadget for that. With a gem loupe you can see inclusion far better than with the naked eye. you can inspect the quality of facets. Ex: are the facets meet each other seamlessly, check the quality of the polish of facets etc.

Jewellers and gem dealers use the gem loupe to inspect gemstines. — A jeweller using a gem loupe

A gem weight scale is also a must have with you. If you are a beginner there are many affordable options. Get a scale that measures the weight in Carats. And if you are buying cut and polished gemstones it is better to buy a scale that measures the carat weight to the last 3 decimal point in carats.

Cheap pocket gem scale for beginners. — Pocket gems scale

Gem scale for beginners — An advanced gem scale

For example a cheap beginner gem weight scale scale may show 2.35 where as a proper gem scale may show the correct weight of 2.39

As for tweezers, a lockable one is the best for a beginner. A proper tweezer helps you handle gemstones for when you are inspecting them and can be used as a good tool to keep your gems steady when taking photos and videos.

This of types of gem tweezers can be locked in place to grip a gemstone. — Lockable Tweezer

An RI machine is optional. If you don't have a lab facility close to you to get your gems certified an RI machine can act as a guide to confirming the type of the gemstone.

An RI machine can determine the Refractive Index of a gemstone. — RI machine for gems

Use a small gem cloth to always clean your gems. Offering a clean gemstone t o anyone makes for a good first impression and can help get sweat and fingerprint stains off from your gems.

Keep a small pouch to keep your gemstone essentials. Believe me, it makes life that much easier.

**Pictures used in this post is sourced from google and credit goes to the respective owners.