Hello, I have been looking to get a microscope, and found a Bushnell Digital 120x USB microscope, through Princess Auto (in Canada) Princess Auto is a reputable retailer, very good return policy etc, I just don't know too much about how a microscope is valued. I know Bushnell is a good brand that makes good scopes, binoculars, and more, but wondering if this is a good start for a hobby gemologist. $80, These are the stats:
Magnification 10x, 60x, 120x Picture Resolution 1,280 x 1,024 Video Resolution 640 x 480 PC Interface USB 2.0 Includes Accessory kit with prepared and blank slides
Save your money, if you really love gemology use your money to pay for knowledge before you spend it on expensive instruments pay to become a graduate gemologist, do not buy digital microscope or digital refractometer its better to use a critical angle refractometer and a stereo zoom microscope for gemology, good luck.
640X480 is the resolution of the old video standard (NTSC) as opposed to the new video standard of 1080x720 (iirc) That thing is a piece of junk and won't do you much good. You need to find someone with a stereo scope and look through it some before you go and buy something. If people buy things that they don't know what they need they usually get sold something other than what they really need or want and this is a perfect example.
Thanks everyone. I would have been really disappointed with crappy pictures. I think I just needed some fellow enthusiasts to talk me back into keeping on saving.
If you're buying something brand new, you will get exactly what you're paying for. So a cheap optical equipment will produce cheaply image for sure...
So if you try to save money (as most all of us do!) I would suggest looking at the used markets. This is where you may find some bargain sometimes. However, you would need to do a lot of research. I've found this kind of forum is where you can get the good advices and information that you need.
Thanks, Anthony. I am trying to buy second hand, and learn a bit more about the mechanics of the instruments so I can make sure I'm not buying a faulty one. And also trying to save money!
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