The principal elements of darkfield illumination are the same for both stereo microscopes and more conventional compound (biological) microscopes, which often are equipped with complex multi-lens condenser systems.
One example of a simple add-on darkfield kit for a stereo microscope is shown below. The darkfield kit drops into the stage plate position on the MW5-L5 stereo zoom microscope.
 |
| Darkfield on a stereo microscope. |
Gemologists often use darkfield for viewing diamonds and precious stones. Gemology microscopes therefore typically have a darkfield feature built into the gem stereo microscope stand.
The GEMZ-5 gemology microscope shown above has an arrow pointing to the built-in darkfield unit on the microscope.
