Jewelry making tools: the jeweler's basic tools

These are the basic tools of a jewelry workshop, grouped by what you do with them. Each name leads to a page with drawn illustrations, types and tips for use.

Cutting and shaping #

• Jeweler's saw and saw blades.
• Files of different profiles and cuts.
• Burs and drills for the flex shaft.
• Rolling mill and draw plate for sheet and wire.

Bending and hammering #

• Pliers and tweezers.
• Hammers and mallets.
• Anvil, steel block and stakes.
• Mandrels and ring sizers.

Heating and soldering #

• Torches.
• Flux and solders.
• Pickle to clean off oxides.

Melting and molding #

• Crucibles and crucible tongs.
• Molds, investment and waxes.
• Ingots and casting grain and graphite.
• Spatulas and chisels.

Measuring and looking #

• Scale and caliper.
• Loupe and microscope.
• Jeweler's bench.

Cleaning and finishing #

• Ultrasonic machine.
• Polishing compounds.
• Burnishers.

Safety #

Glasses, gloves, a natural-fiber apron and ventilation: protective equipment and workshop safety.

Frequently asked questions #

What tools do I need to start? Pliers, a saw, files, a hammer, a mandrel and a torch: see the starter kit.

What tools are used in casting? Crucible, tongs, molds, kiln and safety equipment: basic casting tools.

How much does it cost to set up a workshop? It depends on the metal and techniques; you can start with a few good tools and add over time.

See also #

• Starter tool kit for jewelry making
• Basic tools used in casting
• Protective equipment for casting
• Jeweler's torches: gas, oxygen and mini torch