When combined with optical instruments, a reticle can take fine measurements. Learn how gemologists use this tool for measuring lengths and angles of gems.
7 Minute Read
There are two types of reticles: contact and non-contact.
Since your needs will vary, a combination of reticles is best.
Contact reticles come unattached. You can use them with any loupe or microscope. Others attach to a special hand loupe. These are almost useless for measuring things like the pavilion angle, where the part being measured is not directly in contact with the scale.
The following instructions are for using a contact reticle with a microscope. Using them with a loupe is nearly identical. The techniques are easily adapted.
As with any precision instrument, there are tricks to using them correctly. Most importantly, look straight down on the measurement. Looking at it from an angle will give you an inaccurate reading. Also, pay attention to which eye you’re using. If you switch eyes, you’ll change…
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There are two types of reticles: contact and non-contact.
Since your needs will vary, a combination of reticles is best.
Contact reticles come unattached. You can use them with any loupe or microscope. Others attach to a special hand loupe. These are almost useless for measuring things like the pavilion angle, where the part being measured is not directly in contact with the scale.
The following instructions are for using a contact reticle with a microscope. Using them with a loupe is nearly identical. The techniques are easily adapted.
As with any precision instrument, there are tricks to using them correctly. Most importantly, look straight down on the measurement. Looking at it from an angle will give you an inaccurate reading. Also, pay attention to which eye you’re using. If you switch eyes, you’ll change…
When combined with optical instruments, a reticle can take fine measurements. Learn how gemologists use this tool for measuring lengths and angles of gems.
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