After reading a thread regarding the use of microscopes to view edges, I borrowed a 20x jeweler's loupe from a jeweler friend of mine. While it isn't the 40x or 200x microscope that I've seen used for pictures in some of the threads, I was surprised at how clear and detailed the view was under good lighting.

My hone/strop progression is the Norton 4k/8k, yellow coticule, linen, and, finally, leather. Assuming I've used proper techique, and I believe I have, what kind of scratch patterns should I see under the glass after honing/stropping? What I did find was a very fine but distinct pattern spread evenly over the edge. Not knowing what to expect, I thought the edge would have been smoother considering the reputation of the coticule. Is this normal or do I need to go back to the drawing board.

I gather that the uniformity of the bevel, micro chips, tiny rust spots, etc., will be readily apparent under the glass but what else should one look for through magnification of the edge?

I suspect that time and experience with the glass will answer my questions but your advice is appreciated.