Quote:
Originally Posted by TrevorW
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I'd be very careful about AMScope. Their reputation is subject of great debate in the gemology community. If you want a solid microscope, but don't want to pay the ultra-big prices, I'd look for a low end Japanese brand or a high end Chinese. The only Chinese microscope I would recommend is a Motic (I have the SMZ143). Almost all Japanese brands are great... just pricey.
The Motic SMZ series is a "fit for purpose" type of system. You buy individual parts and assemble them for your needs.
http://www.hoj.com.au/images/catalog...ce2c9c73f0.jpg
My system is like the one in the lower left of the following image, except I don't have the CCD, I use a Sony a350 instead.
http://www.hoj.com.au/images/catalog...67deb0561f.jpg
OIC!