Geology Hand Lens

A 10x Folding Magnifier with a 23mm Coddington Lens

The "hand lens" or "folding pocket magnifier" is a basic tool used by almost every geologist. This model has a 10x Coddington lens that is 23 millimeters in diameter. When not in use, the lens folds into its protective metal carrier. The case has a metal loop for attachment of a leather lanyard (sold separately below).

Geology Hand Lens - Folding Pocket Magnifier (10x)

Geologists working in the field, lab, or office often need to closely examine rocks, sediments, soils, sand, minerals, and other materials with tiny features. A hand lens provides a quick and easy way to perform that work. The hand lens enables geologists to examine rocks closely to identify minerals, see the size and shape of grains, look for small fossils or crystals, confirm the results of a hardness test, and much more.

Many field geologists use a hand lens so frequently that they wear it on a lanyard or cord around their neck. Some tuck the lens into their button-down shirt pocket when it is not in use. A hand lens is one of the most basic tools of a field geologist.

This hand lens is a 10x pocket magnifying glass with a 23-millimeter Coddington lens that corrects for spherical aberration. When not in use, the lens folds into a protected position to guard against breakage and scratches. The carrier has a metal loop for attaching a lanyard (sold separately below). Some people prefer to thread a cord or a shoelace through the case below the pivot hinge, tie the ends of the cord or lace together, and wear the lens around their neck.

Get one for the field and one for your desk!

Approximate measurements: 3 1/8" unfolded length, 1 7/8" folded length, with a lens diameter of 23 millimeters.

Lens Specifications: 10x magnification, 23 millimeters in diameter, Coddington design to correct for spherical aberration.

The Gfeller leather lanyard has a multitude of uses. It is the perfect way to carry a hand lens around your neck.

Soft Leather Lanyards

The Gfeller lanyard is a favorite way to carry a hand lens, keys, or other frequently used small tools. Attach your handlens and wear it around your neck. The 3/8" wide neck strap is made of very soft leather that will be almost unnoticeable on your neck. The 42" length strap has an adjusting slide that allows you to customize the working length and fit. (Hand lens available above!)

Some people use the lanyards to carry keys, a knife or other small frequently used tools. Attach the lanyard to your belt loop and carry your keys or knife in your pocket. Just grab the lanyard and gently pull the keys from your pocket.

You can also attach the lanyard to your field case or backpack. This greatly reduces the risk of leaving your keys, knife, or hand lens behind. The soft, supple leather easily tucks into one of the pockets of your pack.

What's the difference between a "hand lens" and a "loupe"?
"Hand lens" and "loupe" are two different words used for the same tool. Geologists and others who wear them on a lanyard and use them in the field seem to prefer the name "hand lens." Gemologists and others who keep them in a leather case and use them in labs, stores, and offices seem to prefer the name "loupe."