Does anybody have any suggestions as to which microscope to buy for studying patina, fractures, etc?
I have gotten good at eyeballing for obvious fakes and incorrect flaking but I want to continue to study pieces further. Thank you for any thoughts/opinions.
-Jason

I've got a 10X jeweler's loop that I use. I do have a microscope but getting a flake between the lens and table is somewhat of a problem.

Thank you much.

You might look at a binocular disecting scope. I never used one to look at flint but I did a lot of work with biology specimens. You can get most any flint artifact under one.

Check out Craigslist. There are several that would be just right, and cheap! 100x would be my choice.

A loop or similar hand held of 10 to max 30 X is very worthwhile to quickly scan for areas of further interest.
Radio Shack sells an illuminated variable microscope of 60 to 100X ( $12. cat# 63-1313 )that will positively enhance an edge for the detail you are looking for. I've used their old 30 to 70 variable for years on fossils.

"testing" a new microscope can be very interesting too, like on an ink line on paper or human skin ( on a dirty callous encrusted digging hand ! )

Thanks for the friendly suggestions!