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These microscopes are used in petrology and optical mineralogy to identify rocks and minerals in thin sections. They are highly advanced machines specifically designed for examining and researching rocks and minerals. As such, theses microscopes have specific features tailored to their niche that are not present in microscopes for other research fields.
Take a look at our reviews below for some of the best products currently on the market for geology research.
Best Microscopes for Geology
Here are our reviews of the best microscopes for geology
1. OMAX 50X-787.5X USB3 14MP Trinocular Ore Petrographic Polarizing Microscope
This Petrographic microscope is specifically designed for geology. Constructed with the latest technology on the market, this microscope, from Omax, is a machine you can rely on.
- Mechanical specimen holder
- Adjustable light paths
- Built-in 14-megapixel camera for stunning image quality
2. AmScope PZ200TA Polarizing Trinocular Microscope
This polarizing microscope from AmScope, comes complete with a built-in focusable Bertrand lens connected to a rotatable disc making it a perfect pick for geology related studies.
- Fixed 45-degree vertical inclination reduces eye and neck strain
- Brightfield illumination coupled with halogen illumination
- 360-degree rotating, round examination stage
3. AmScope PZ200BB Polarizing Binocular Microscope
Capable of 800x magnification with a coarse and fine focusing system makes this microscope a great pick for students and professional geologists alike.
- Siedentopf binocular mount
- Polarizing illumination with focusable Bertrand lens
- Lock ring stopper to limit coarse range and protect slides
4. AmScope T610-IPL 40X-1000X Plan Infinity Kohler Laboratory Research Grade Trinocular Compound Microscope
Complete with 4 wide-field magnification settings, this research-grade trinocular compound microscope is as good as it gets when it comes to viewing and studying minerals.
- Precise mechanical adjustments and optics are ideal for advanced applications.
- Backward nosepiece design allows for easy rotation and operation
- Trinocular design allows for photo and video capabilities
Best Microscopes for Biology Buyer’s Guide
As these high-powered devices are manufactured specifically for geology, there are very specific features that you need to keep an eye out for when making your purchase. Take a look at our buyer’s guide to for some tips and details to take note of when investing in one of these machines.
Lighting
Due to light loss from polarizing filters, geological microscopes need to have a bright light source. Look for a model that has a light source below the field lens and a secondary adjustable source so that Kohler illumination can be achieved.
Another good option is a pre-focused or adjustable halogen light source, which are affordable and easy to replace.
Focus controls
Look for a model where the tightness and tension can be adjusted without any disassembly. This is important as mineral studies require the user to constantly change the focal plane, therefore the controls should neither too loose or tight.
Bertrand lens
Any good polarizing microscope worth its weight should be equipped with a Bertrand lens. Look for a model with the Bertrand lens either built into the head or in an intermediate tube, slightly beneath the head allowing it to be moved in and out of the light path when needed. Keep an eye out for a machine that has as individual focuser specifically for the Bertrand lens.
Ease of centering
The objective lens, circular stage and the condenser all need to be adjustable to ensure that the view and stage rotate around the same center point. A quality model should have smooth working screws that secure individual objectives from moving off of the center point. It is recommended that you purchase a machine with an easy-to-center viewing stage.
Maintainability
These are expensive machines and as such, they need to be taken care of properly.
Look for a microscope that is easy to disassemble and reassemble as needed for cleaning, maintenance, adjusting and lubrication. This will ensure that your device will last a lifetime.