A magnifying glass is an optical device used to make objects appear larger than they actually are. It consists of a convex LENS that is used to focus light and produce a magnified image. The term 'magnifying glass' can refer to two different types of devices: a LENS, which is typically made of glass, and a LOUPE, which is a small, handheld magnifier. A LENS is a curved piece of glass that is used to refract light in order to magnify an object. A LOUPE is a small magnifying glass that is held up to the eye to magnify an object. Both lenses and loupes are commonly used to magnify small objects such as coins, stamps, and jewelry.