Apparatus for examining gemstones and the like

Abstract

An apparatus, particularly a microscope, for the examination of a plurality of gemstones, pearls or similar small objects, comprises means to create dark-field illumination and a slide-type displaceable specimen holder of plastics material which has an elongate recess in its upper surface with a cross-section which narrows towards the bottom of the recess for example. The means to create the dark-field illumination comprises a cold light source, a glass-fiber bundle and polarization filter means, and the specimen holder consists of translucent material, especially Plexiglass. Additionally there is provided a device for aiding the examination of uncut gemstones and similar small objects, comprising means to create dark-field illumination and means for immersion inspection which comprises a vessel containing an immersion liquid. This vessel is equipped with a damping float of transparent material having a flat base and an open upper end, which in the operational position of the apparatus is inserted into the immersion liquid and floats therein, with the base of the damping float having a surface which is at least as large as the object to be examined.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.