Whether doing finely detailed work or just reading a book, a magnifying lamp can prove to be an invaluable tool. Magnifier lamps come in all shapes, sizes, colors, power of magnification, lens configurations, and bulb types.
Higher end lighted magnifying lamps are used by industrial model makers, dermatologists, draftsmen, coin collectors and dealers, and jewelers. On the consumer level there are a wide variety of styles to choose from. Some magnifying lamps come with a clip at the base which allows you to clip the lamp to the edge of a workbench, craft table, or desk. Others come with a weighted base or stand. Some of the models on stands even come with optional casters.
When making handicrafts or viewing small objects like stamps, jewelry, or coins, a magnifying lamp will enable you to see the fine details. The lamps two prominent elements are the light which illuminates the object and the lens which gives a magnified view and better reveals the intricacies of the object. The acquisition of a magnifier lamp will be a great asset when you need to be able to discern the fine details of any of a wide array of objects.
Magnifier lamps come in three primary forms. The first is just your basic desktop lamp. What is nice about these is that they are easily adjustable and can be easily repositioned or moved from place to place. If there isn’t much space on your desk or working area, then a good choice would be a magnifying lamp with a floor base. The hinged arm allows the lamp to be positioned over your workpiece while the lamp sits beside your desk. A lamp such as this has the base set aside and out of your way, however it will end up being more expensive.
A third type of lamp attaches to the edge of your work table or desk with a clamp or screws. To find a magnifying lamp that is a good balance between a desktop version and a floor unit, you may want to look at these kinds of magnifier lamp. The cost ranges somewhere between that of a desktop and a floor model.
Aside from physical size and shape, magnifier lamps also come with a variety of magnification lenses to chose from. Ultimately, your purpose for the lamp will determine the necessary magnification. While skilled gemologists and watchmakers demand high power magnification lenses, lower levels of magnification are appropriate for hobbies such as sketching, needlework, or reading. The type of bulb may also be a consideration before purchasing a magnifier lamp. The advantages of using LED or fluorescent lights are that they generate a lesser amount of heat than incandescent bulbs and do not use as much energy. Several magnifying lamps provide the choice in using electricity or batteries. When purchasing a magnifying lamp, there are many different options to choose from.