How to inspect a gemstone using a loupe

A 10× triplet loupe is still the wholesale buyer’s fastest tool. Whether you visit our premises in Trivandrum District or review stones after delivery, a consistent loupe routine keeps decisions fair and repeatable.

Set up for a clean read

1. Clean the stone and the loupe lenses
2. Use a bright, neutral light — daylight-balanced LED or a window with steady daylight
3. Hold the loupe against your eye; bring the stone to the loupe, not the other way around
4. Brace your hands to reduce shake

What to scan for

Work systematically around the stone:

• Table and crown — scratches, abrasions, chips on facet junctions
• Inclusions — crystals, needles, fingerprints, clouds; note size and position
• Fractures — open cracks that threaten durability in rings
• Girdle and pavilion — bruising, windowing, or deep cavities
• Colour zoning — bands or patches that may show when set

Record what you see

For each stone or representative piece in a lot, note:

• Overall clarity impression (eye-clean vs visibly included)
• Any damage that would fail a retail QA check
• Consistency across the parcel

Photographs and rotating videos from the seller should match what you see under the loupe. If they do not, pause the deal and ask for clarification.

When a visit helps

Remote buyers who can already read photographs well may purchase without visiting. If you prefer hands-on inspection, you are welcome to examine stones with loupe, microscope, and proper lighting at Malik Exports before you buy.

Bring your own loupe if you like — and ask us for the lighting conditions used in our website photographs so your expectations stay aligned.