The Zeiss 10X Jeweler’s Loupe is one of the finest hand-held optical devices made. To maximize its effectiveness, here are a few hints:

1. Hold the loupe close to your eye.

You must realize that a lens that magnifies ten times has a fairly short focal length so it will be used only an inch or so from the eye. Don’t be afraid to get the loupe close to your eye. (See photo 1)
2. Keep your head up and both eyes open.

Keep your head erect and don’t bend your head over. Keeping your head erect will keep light on your subject; bending over shields light from the subject with your shadow. (See photo 2)
3. Brace the hand holding the loupe.

Brace the hand holding the loupe with the hand holding the object to provide stability and avoid shaking. (See photo 3)

IMPORTANT – Keep both eyes open! It works. Keeping one eye closed will soon cause discomfort in the muscles that close the eye and lead to a twitch.