Equipment for Micromounting
Considering that micromounts are defined as minerals, rocks and crystals that can be admired only when put under a microscope, you obviously need a microscope if you want to enjoy this hobby. Relax though, you do not need a microscope that is used in laboratories although you should not pick a microscope too easily either. Most micromounters use microscopes with reflected light and 10x to 30x magnifying glasses (those that are used to look at insects and plants). The best ones are not inexpensive but it is possible to find a great microscope at a reasonable price. It is hard to say which one is the best and each micromounter will recommend you a different brand and model. Determine how much you are willing to spent for a microscope and make a list of microscopes that are within your reach. However, do not watch for every penny though because a fine microscope will serve you well for years.
Another important piece of equipment for micromounting, well lots of it are boxes or containers for micro materials. Micromounting is about collecting tiny specimens of minerals, rock, crystals and other collectible materials which require special storage. You can keep them in a large, specially designed display case, however, keep in mind that micro materials are too tiny to be able to put a label on a pedestal which poses a risk of mixing them up when taking multiple out of the display case for instance. Most micromounters therefore use specially designed plastic micromount boxes that are large enough to put a label on it which significantly facilitates storage and organization of micro materials. They can be found in specialized stores but it is also possible to find them online. These boxes are not expensive but it may be worth to keep in mind that they are cheaper in bulk (500 pieces for instance).
Then you will need some sort of pedestal. Some people simply glue the micro materials on the bottom of the box but this is not how it should be done. A number of items can be used for a pedestal, while most micromounters use toothpicks which are glued to the micromount box after a hole has been drilled in the bottom of the box. This means that you will need a driller too although it is also possible to find micromount boxes with holes. To make sure that the micromount is secured properly, use a good glue such as epoxy glue. You should also consider painting the inside of the micromount boxes into black because the plastic tends to be highly reflective. This is not obligatory but it will emphasize the micro material. However, do not simply paint all boxes black. Choose paint colour according to the colour of the micro material. After all, it makes no sense to paint the box black if the micromount is black. Also, be sure to paint the box and pedestal before mounting the micro material because it is very difficult to paint the interior of the box and the pedestal without painting the micromount when already mounted.