Tools


From small hand tools and large workshop machines, learn what you can do with these indispensable items.

Filing, Sanding, and Buffing: Hand Finishing

Filing, Sanding, and Buffing: Hand Finishing

Ganoksin instructors Pattie Parkhurst and Richard Sweetman offer tips, tricks, and various techniques to finish your project by hand. You...
Read More
Filing, Sanding and Buffing: Using Flex Shaft Machine

Filing, Sanding and Buffing: Using Flex Shaft Machine

The flex shaft machine is one of the most common tools at a jeweler's bench. Watch Ganoksin instructors Pattie Parkhurst...
Read More
Jeweler’s Torches Explained: What Kind Do You Need?

Jeweler’s Torches Explained: What Kind Do You Need?

With so many torches on the market, a first-time buyer can be quickly overwhelmed by the sheer number of decisions...
Read More
Method to Quickly Identify Tool Steel

Method to Quickly Identify Tool Steel

Learn how to quickly identify whether a piece of steel has the quality you need for making jewelry tools. By...
Read More
Metal Engraving Tools Explained: How To Choose And Prepare Gravers For Jewelry Work

Metal Engraving Tools Explained: How To Choose And Prepare Gravers For Jewelry Work

Many industries have need of specialized engravers, for instance those who make dies, who cut stones and glass, and others...
Read More

Goldsmith Kit Basic Tools

This article lists the basic tools found in a standard Western Goldsmith's toolbox.
Read More
Buffing and Polishing Materials

Buffing and Polishing Materials

Almost any metal or hard plastic item can be buffed to a high polish or a satin sheen with the...
Read More
Jeweler’s Saw Blades: All The Different Sizes And How To Choose Correctly

Jeweler’s Saw Blades: All The Different Sizes And How To Choose Correctly

Originally published under the title: Selecting the Correct Saw Blade This article provides and describes useful tips for selecting the...
Read More

Calculating ROI for Tool and Equipment Purchases

Whether youre running a 15-person workshop or a 400-worker factory, you should know before buying whether a piece of equipment...
Read More

Jeweler’s Shop Machines

About Anvils, Buffing Machines, Casting Machines, Drill Press Machines, Flexible Shafts, Hydraulic Press Machines, Rolling Mills and more...
Read More
Build a Basic Jeweler’s Bench

Build a Basic Jeweler’s Bench

This bench has been designed so it can be made from easily available materials without sophisticated woodworking equipment. People with...
Read More
Japanese Chasing Tools

Japanese Chasing Tools

Japanese chasing tools are made from steel blanks available in Japan called tagane. Japanese chasing hammers are lightweight with long...
Read More
Creating and Sharpening Gravers

Creating and Sharpening Gravers

This article is about creating and sharpening gravers before using for your work or project as described by Tom Weishaar....
Read More
A Metalworking Hand Tool List For Beginners In Jewelry-Making

A Metalworking Hand Tool List For Beginners In Jewelry-Making

Making jewelry is sometimes seen as a difficult or an expensive proposition. In reality a basic metal working shop can...
Read More
Perfect Hand Polishing Tips

Perfect Hand Polishing Tips

Though mass finishing procedures continue to improve, it is nearly impossible to match the beautiful polish obtained through hand finishing....
Read More
Steps for Graver Preparation

Steps for Graver Preparation

Gravers are small cutting tools used for stone setting, texturing, de-burring and applying decorative embellishments and traditional hand engraving. Steps...
Read More
Engraving Methods and Techniques

Engraving Methods and Techniques

As important as the gravers are, it is hard to understate the importance of the devices used to secure work...
Read More
Laser Welding Basics – Part 1

Laser Welding Basics – Part 1

This article will run over multiple issues of Bench Magazine. I plan to start with the basics of welding and...
Read More
Spot Welding Devices for Goldsmiths

Spot Welding Devices for Goldsmiths

Spot welding devices have become quite popular on the market and are indeed now indispensable features in many goldsmith studios...
Read More
Pitch Bowls and Alternatives for Jewelers

Pitch Bowls and Alternatives for Jewelers

Chasing and repousse is carried out on various surfaces using steel punches to strike and manipulate sheet metal or cast...
Read More
The Neo Five Axis Mill

The Neo Five Axis Mill

There was a time in Ocean Rose’s life when moving to CAD/CAM would have been like "going over to the...
Read More

Gem-Setting Tools: A Practical Guide To All The Hand Tools & Bench Supplies You’ll Need

This article lists the basic tools someone learning stonesetting might want to have around. One would of course add to...
Read More

Goldsmithing: Pitch Options

Pitch is used all over the world by goldsmiths and silversmiths to hold metal in place while working it with...
Read More

Laser Welding Replacing Soldering

When first starting to work with the laser welders, operators should experiment with five or six different alloys commonly used....
Read More
How to Make a Tumbler

How to Make a Tumbler

The construction process is simple enough if you have basic do-it-yourself skills. Firstly, assemble the timber frame as shown below using...
Read More
Make Your Own Polariscope

Make Your Own Polariscope

Polariscopes are a very useful, simple and inexpensive to make piece of gemological equipment. They are used to tell glass...
Read More
Jewelers’ Gripping Tools

Jewelers’ Gripping Tools

Euro Tool, Inc. offers a wide variety of innovative and standard holding device's to make working at the bench easier,...
Read More
Stone Setting Tools FAQs

Stone Setting Tools FAQs

Tim McCreight answers 13 of the questions about stone-setting tools most frequently asked by his metalsmithing students.
Read More

CNC Milling vs. 3D Printing

For someone new to the jewelry industry, the sheer assortment of tools and equipment in the typical workshop can be...
Read More

Jewelry Rendering Tools and Projects

These pages contain a list of recommended tools to jewelry rendering, as well as a series of projects that I...
Read More
Hydraulic Die Press

Hydraulic Die Press

Pressing Matters by Tina Wojtkielo Snyder This month, we asked Lisa Krikawa of Tucson: If you were stranded on an...
Read More
Gem Identification Machines

Gem Identification Machines

This segment from the 2017 MJSA Journal November issue is dedicated to metals, tools, software and more that aids jewelers...
Read More

Notes on Presto-Lite Torch

We use a method for cutting down firescale when using a Presto-Lite Torch along with an acetylene B tank. The...
Read More

Grinding Wheel Safety Rules

Besides the safety instructions that you get from a tool manufacturer in the tool manual it may be necessary for...
Read More
Engraving Machines

Engraving Machines

This segment from the 2017 MJSA Journal November issue is dedicated to metals, tools, software and more that aids jewelers...
Read More
Laser Welding Basics – Part 3

Laser Welding Basics – Part 3

Back when I was going to school, if I had known I would be writing an article about laser welding...
Read More
Jewelers Saws Tested: A Hands-On Review Of The Knew Concepts Precision Lineup

Jewelers Saws Tested: A Hands-On Review Of The Knew Concepts Precision Lineup

I have an intimate relationship with my tool collection. Sometimes the needs of a particular jewelry project drive me to...
Read More
How to Make a Chasing or Forming Tool

How to Make a Chasing or Forming Tool

We are assuming you are using W1 water hardening square stock drill rod, W1 tool steel. Many suppliers will sell...
Read More
Testing the PUK 2 Precision Welder

Testing the PUK 2 Precision Welder

If the thought of buying a laser welder gives the accountant in you cardiac arrest, you may have a more...
Read More
Polishing Hard to Reach Areas

Polishing Hard to Reach Areas

When it comes to fine jewelry making polishing is a very important step - it can be the difference between...
Read More

Gloves and the Jeweler

Gloves are used to prevent skin contact with a hazard, whether physical (like a razor edge on a piece of...
Read More
Laser Welders Impacting the Jewelry Industry

Laser Welders Impacting the Jewelry Industry

The one tool that allows each of these jewelers to do their jobs better is a laser welder, a technological...
Read More
Beading Tool Tips

Beading Tool Tips

Like most bench jewelers I do a lot of bead setting and like most bench jewelers I take pride in...
Read More
Comparative Analysis of Three Welding Systems

Comparative Analysis of Three Welding Systems

AJM Magazine asked me to perform a comparative analysis of three welding systems performance in several different precious metal welding...
Read More

Kiln Questions

First, the 'n' really is silent, at least according to the American Heritage Dictionary. There are kilns as big as...
Read More
Fold Forming Tool List

Fold Forming Tool List

These are the jewelry-making tools you'll need for fold forming.
Read More
How to Make a Wax Injector

How to Make a Wax Injector

You will require a 5 to 6 inch by 3 inch wide brass or copper tube, silver solder a cover...
Read More

Notes on Files for Jewelry Making

When one gets a new file one traditionally dips it in alcohol and sets fire to it to burn off...
Read More
Homemade Soldering Station Venting System

Homemade Soldering Station Venting System

A selection of illustration showing an efficient home-made soldering venting system.
Read More
How to Modify Tools for Carving Wax

How to Modify Tools for Carving Wax

Casting is the most important method of commercial jewelry production. Even for small workshops, lost-wax casting is often the fastest...
Read More
Wax Tools Update

Wax Tools Update

Euro Tool, Inc. has developed five wax tool kits and a cordless wax pen for the overall improvement of wax...
Read More
Pat Pruitt’s Wolf Belt Sander

Pat Pruitt’s Wolf Belt Sander

Using 1 inch by 11 inch belts with a 4.25-inch working surface, this sander fits onto a flex-shaft with a...
Read More
How to Make Foredom Handpiece Shield

How to Make Foredom Handpiece Shield

This paper describes two simple methods of creating a shield to be used on the end of a Foredom handpiece....
Read More

Laser Welding Sterling Silver

In laser welding of Sterling Silver ' lower silver bearing alloys (coin silver) we have about seven choices in laser...
Read More
Magnesia Blocks Myth Debunked

Magnesia Blocks Myth Debunked

Myth: Magnesia blocks are superior soldering surfaces to charcoal blocks: A topic that seems to raise a fair amount of...
Read More
Polishing Tools and Tricks

Polishing Tools and Tricks

The mantra of polishing jewelry is the shinier the better - and obtaining polishing perfection takes skill and practice. It...
Read More
Making Wooden Raising Stakes

Making Wooden Raising Stakes

This article offers a few tips on making your own wooden raising stakes instead of buying rather expensive metal ones....
Read More
How to Sharpen Drill Bits

How to Sharpen Drill Bits

Small, fine drill bits used for jewelry making will become dull with normal use. Worn cutting edges make tasks more...
Read More
Frequently Used Wax Tools

Frequently Used Wax Tools

Dental probes and knives make good wax tools. Your local dentist or dental hygienist or school for the same can...
Read More
Universal Expanding Ring Mandrel

Universal Expanding Ring Mandrel

The other week a friend came by the shop for some jewelry related lathe help. She was using a ring...
Read More
Practical Course in Goldsmithing

Practical Course in Goldsmithing

A micro-waterjet device can be used to achieve fine matt finishes on precious metal surfaces. Parts required for this are:...
Read More
DIY Metal Shaping Tools: How To Make Your Own Jewelry Hammers Or Mallets

DIY Metal Shaping Tools: How To Make Your Own Jewelry Hammers Or Mallets

Jewelers spend hours fixing damage that they themselves did to the metal. Soft hammers and shaping tools limit the injuries...
Read More
Debunking Three Myths About Sawing

Debunking Three Myths About Sawing

In thinking about the daily tasks that I undertake at the bench, I realized how easy it is to fall...
Read More
Molding Alternatives for Jewelers

Molding Alternatives for Jewelers

Jewelers need to make molds of objects and parts frequently. Usually wax is poured into the molds and the results...
Read More
High-Tech for Goldsmith Studios

High-Tech for Goldsmith Studios

State-of-the-art technology and innovative methods are the pacemakers for high-performance and effective work in a crafts trade. Jewelers and goldsmiths...
Read More
Modifying Tools as Dapping Tools

Modifying Tools as Dapping Tools

Dapping tools are punches with a ball shaped end. As they are used to dome metal discs and making halves...
Read More
Make Your Own Wax Tools

Make Your Own Wax Tools

I make all my own wax carving tools and hot wax tools.I have done this since the early 1970's when...
Read More
Build an Advanced Jeweler’s Bench

Build an Advanced Jeweler’s Bench

This sophisticated bench costs a little more and is a bit more difficult to make than the one on the...
Read More
Channel Setting Tools Designed For Wax

Channel Setting Tools Designed For Wax

Stone-in-place casting is growing in practice with manufacturers and retail manufacturing operations taking advantage of these labor saving techniques. Stone-in-place...
Read More
Stakes and Swages Shaping Tools

Stakes and Swages Shaping Tools

Stakes are objects used for shaping metal over, on and into. Hammers or mallets are used to form the metal...
Read More
Foredom Micro Motor Kit Review

Foredom Micro Motor Kit Review

This article features Bill Holman who bezel sets a 2.55 ct. trillion diamond, 0.03 ct. round brilliant diamonds and engraves...
Read More
The PUK: Generation 3

The PUK: Generation 3

The PUK® fine welding devices have established themselves in the goldsmith studios and in the jewelry manufacturers in over 50...
Read More
Tweezers Tips and Tricks

Tweezers Tips and Tricks

Tweezers are a constant in a jeweler's life, particularly in these safety conscious times. Tweezer use can help reduce your...
Read More

Basic Principles for Tools and Equipment

Saving some dollars on equipment can be really helpful to a shop's bottom line. Often tools and equipment from other...
Read More
Flexible Shaft Tricks

Flexible Shaft Tricks

A good selection of burs may be had from your dentist. Dentists often throw out burrs which still have a...
Read More
Low Cost Electric Grinding Machine

Low Cost Electric Grinding Machine

Enamel surfaces can be ground more quickly and efficiently with an electric grinding machine than by hand. Because professional grinding...
Read More
Transform Nails To Riveting Tools

Transform Nails To Riveting Tools

Soldering is a quick and easy method for joining metals. But sometimes two metals require a connection for which soldering...
Read More
How to Make a Riffle File

How to Make a Riffle File

Every now and then when you are fabricating a piece or polishing a casting, a hole or hollow will pop...
Read More
Tips for Working With Drill Bits

Tips for Working With Drill Bits

Tips for working with drill bits In previous columns, I’ve explored the everyday activity of drilling, touching on drilling boards...
Read More
Giving New Life to Old Burs

Giving New Life to Old Burs

By Old burs can serve a number of useful purposes in daily bench work. Here are two tips from jewelers...
Read More
Useful Bench Tools

Useful Bench Tools

This segment from the 2017 MJSA Journal November issue is dedicated to metals, tools, software and more that aids jewelers...
Read More
Grinding and Shaping Onglette Gravers

Grinding and Shaping Onglette Gravers

This article contains the following detailed steps to give you a better understanding why grinding and shaping onglette gravers are...
Read More
Recycling High Speed Steel Burs

Recycling High Speed Steel Burs

When I buy my high speed steel, 90 degree, under-cutting burs I always think of the words, "waste not, want...
Read More
How to Customize Short Insulated Tweezers

How to Customize Short Insulated Tweezers

Customize a standard insulated tweezers to easily hold small objects much tighter...
Read More
Optimized Saw Blade for Cutting Wax

Optimized Saw Blade for Cutting Wax

While many jewelers work directly in precious metals, many also work with wax, carving models for casting in silver and...
Read More
Homemade Engravers Ball

Homemade Engravers Ball

There are several methods of obtaining the smooth rotation of a piece of metal necessary for engraving on it. Many...
Read More
Basic Chasing Tools

Basic Chasing Tools

As well as being used for chasing they may also be used as punches to make textures. A stamp or...
Read More
Casting Tools and Products

Casting Tools and Products

This segment from the 2017 MJSA Journal November issue is dedicated to metals, tools, software and more that aids jewelers...
Read More

Perfect Finishing Tools and Techniques

Our castings can be flawless, our assembly precise, and our settings secure -- but let any surface go a bit...
Read More

North American Sources for Equipment, Materials, etc.

This page offers a list of some useful North American Sources for Equipment, Materials, information, etc that would be very...
Read More
Tru-Seat Setting System

Tru-Seat Setting System

Hoover ' Strong, Inc. in Richmond, VA provides a line of Tru-Seat settings that include solitaire earrings, pendants and solitaire...
Read More
CAD/CAM Designer Tools

CAD/CAM Designer Tools

This segment from the 2017 MJSA Journal November issue is dedicated to metals, tools, software and more that aids jewelers...
Read More
Finishing Machines

Finishing Machines

This segment from the 2017 MJSA Journal November issue is dedicated to metals, tools, software and more that aids jewelers...
Read More
Micro Vacuum Cleaner for Enamelists

Micro Vacuum Cleaner for Enamelists

This article describes a micro vacuum cleaner, based on an aquarium pump, for use by enamelists. The vacuum cleaner allows...
Read More

Benchtop Hydroflux Welders

Connections are an important part of jewelry manufacturing. We make them with suppliers, with retailers, even with the people who...
Read More
Laser Technology

Laser Technology

This segment from the 2017 MJSA Journal November issue is dedicated to metals, tools, software and more that aids jewelers...
Read More
Basic Milling Technique

Basic Milling Technique

In working on jewelry there are many tasks that seem simple - you just do it and don't think about...
Read More
Bench Tools for Jewelers

Bench Tools for Jewelers

This article lists the following useful bench tools for jewelers including contact information where they can be purchased or ordered....
Read More
3M Radial Bristle Discs Proficiency Advantage

3M Radial Bristle Discs Proficiency Advantage

3M Radial Bristle Discs were introduced to the jewelry industry in 2000. Additional discs and end brushes have been added...
Read More
Radial Bristle Discs Excites Jewelers

Radial Bristle Discs Excites Jewelers

how one of 3M's radial bristle discs to a non-jeweler friend, and you are almost guaranteed to get a lukewarm...
Read More
Graver Detailing and Sharpening

Graver Detailing and Sharpening

A sharp graver can improve cutting performance at the bench. There are several approaches to use when detailing a graver,...
Read More
Small Bench Tools Descriptions

Small Bench Tools Descriptions

This selected list describes a number of small, easily made tools which can improve efficiency, speed and ease of working...
Read More
Using Non-Jeweler’s Tools For Fabrication: How To Repurpose Painting Blades For Bezels

Using Non-Jeweler’s Tools For Fabrication: How To Repurpose Painting Blades For Bezels

Helen I. Driggs demonstrates how some non-jewelers tools give fabrication a new twist. My background is in graphic design, so...
Read More
Bud Bur Tool

Bud Bur Tool

Of all the burs used on a setters bench, my one good true friend is the bud bur. Why? Because...
Read More

Laser Welding Basics – Part 2

In my last article I wrote about the various adjustable parameters, and the effects of changing those parameters. In this...
Read More
Sheet Metal Tool Modification

Sheet Metal Tool Modification

Sheet Metal Tool Modification, Look for: WISS Hand Seamer (as LAST resort BRAMEC or VISE-GRIP) sheet metal bending tools and...
Read More
Machine Tool Technology: An Aesthetic Application

Machine Tool Technology: An Aesthetic Application

This paper is initiated with the reference that one selects process because of aesthetic need. The premise of technology as...
Read More
The RinGenie Marking Tool

The RinGenie Marking Tool

Jewelers are constantly in search of tools that make them more productive. It helps to shop trade shows where tools...
Read More

Equipment Maintenance Guidelines

  You pride yourself on your pristine shop. Your equipment is laid out for maximum efficiency, your tools are stored...
Read More
Tips for Modifying Vises

Tips for Modifying Vises

A good vise is a vital piece of equipment for any goldsmith because it can act as a third hand,...
Read More
The Kinds of Hammers

The Kinds of Hammers

Hammers are an essential part of silversmithing and goldsmithing. While one can buy hammers ready made one can also do...
Read More
Warrior Power Tool System

Warrior Power Tool System

New patented Warrior Power Tool System kit provides a revolutionary proficiency advantage for bench jewelers and jewelry manufacturers for split-lap...
Read More
Laser Forming: Silversmithing Potential

Laser Forming: Silversmithing Potential

Laser forming is an emerging rapid prototyping (RP) technique that has undergone research worldwide since the mid 1980s. It is...
Read More
Turning Burrs Into Stonesetting Tools

Turning Burrs Into Stonesetting Tools

Stonesetters frequently convert and and reuse tools intended for other purposes. Often when a tool is needed they will cast...
Read More

The Art of Tool Making

There are two properties which distinguish a good tool from a bad one. The tool must have the correct shape...
Read More
Using Coils To Bend Tubing

Using Coils To Bend Tubing

Many tools sold in model/hobby stores can be used for jewelry making. During a recent visit to a hobby shop,...
Read More
The Flex-Shaft System

The Flex-Shaft System

The flex-shaft is a wonderful tool - but one that jewelers rarely use to its maximum advantage. Usually the first...
Read More
Creating Beading Pliers Accessory Bezel Settings

Creating Beading Pliers Accessory Bezel Settings

Sometimes, holding on to really little parts is the greatest challenge of my day. I use tiny cabochons almost daily...
Read More
Polishing and Finishing Aids

Polishing and Finishing Aids

For polishing it is recommended to use primarily bristle brushes for most of the removal work and to follow up...
Read More
Bench Tool Junkies

Bench Tool Junkies

What you should be is excited to read this article and see what others just like you have to say...
Read More
How to Modify Plier Tools

How to Modify Plier Tools

This is a great modification of pliers to give you a tool that mimics the shape of your thumb and...
Read More
Precision Fine Casting

Precision Fine Casting

Workshops now have to incorporate a lot of technology, ranging from lost wax casting through to modern working processes within...
Read More
Etype Automated Wax Injection System

Etype Automated Wax Injection System

Racine and his son, Ittai, a physicist by profession but a top engineer, passed on purchasing the dated facility and...
Read More
3M Bur and Polish Wheels

3M Bur and Polish Wheels

3M XR wheels, formerly known as XK wheels are ideal for sprue removal and smooth deburring with minor surface reduction....
Read More
Testing the 3M FX Polishing Wheels

Testing the 3M FX Polishing Wheels

When AJM asked me to test the new 3M FX Polishing Wheels, I was reminded of a neat factoid: The...
Read More
How to Make Prong Notching Pliers

How to Make Prong Notching Pliers

These pliers notch round prongs easily to a given depth and replace a bur for the job. They are made...
Read More
The Benefits of Multiple Cell Electrolysis Technology

The Benefits of Multiple Cell Electrolysis Technology

Every goldsmith needs a precise, energy rich gas flame at his workplace. Compressed gas cylinders offer one opportunity for this....
Read More

Using Acid Bath on Used Tools

Bench jewelers hate to throw out used tools. By training and by nature we try to conserve the materials we...
Read More

Ergonomics for Bench Pin Modifications

Ergonomics is the safe and effective relationship between a worker and the work environment. For the bench jeweler who spends...
Read More
ECO-Maxi

ECO-Maxi

The ECO-Maxi, first introduced in Basel, represents a whole new machine concept: the world’s first single machine capable of three...
Read More
Pumice Finishing and Brass Wire Brushing

Pumice Finishing and Brass Wire Brushing

The first time I saw a machine for pumice finishing and brass wire brushing was at the School for American...
Read More
Beam Path Check

Beam Path Check

With the Nd:Yag Micro Laser Welders, being used by the jewelry, and other industrial manufacturing / repair industries, there is...
Read More
Pulse Shaping: Energy Over Time

Pulse Shaping: Energy Over Time

Laser technology is still so new to 
our industry and there is still so much 
to discover. Fortunately, I believe...
Read More

Cardboard Disc Sander Tool

A cardboard disc sander is a very useful tool. One uses the side or large flap of a fairly rigid...
Read More
How to Modify Cross-Lock Tweezers

How to Modify Cross-Lock Tweezers

Often when soldering, it is necessary to use cross-lock tweezers to hold or steady the piece(s) being soldered. The pressure...
Read More
New Technologies Make Us Fit for the Future

New Technologies Make Us Fit for the Future

In difficult times, it is important to invest in modern methods, machines and tools. Jewelry and watch makers can assert...
Read More

Modified Split Mandrel for Finishing Round Bezels

A bench jeweler typically uses a split mandrel to sand and finish the inside of a ring. Various grits of...
Read More

Suggested Tools from Karl Fischer

Ask for a catalog with an English supplement. Order by surface if a heavy order as shipping from Germany is...
Read More

Rules for Tools

While it is clearly impossible to give a set of rules for each tool and procedure that goldsmiths use, this...
Read More

Handling Stakes and Anvils

Shaping a bezel on stakes is a process of forming the metal by stretching. First the metal is bent with...
Read More
Homemade Flex-Shaft Guard

Homemade Flex-Shaft Guard

Homemade flex-shaft guard using a soft drink plastic bottle, a solution to the annoying and potentially hazardous problem of breathing...
Read More
Gold Alloys Using X-ray Fluorescence

Gold Alloys Using X-ray Fluorescence

Gold alloys can be analyzed quickly and without being destroyed with the help of X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The advantages compared...
Read More
Modified Super Tools

Modified Super Tools

Down on your bench, look: It’s a file. It’s a bur. It’s Super Tool! At first it seemed so ordinary....
Read More

Jewelry Making Bench Tips

Jeremy Pavlow shares his common jewelry making bench tips by taking advantage of other tools and materials not normally used...
Read More
Testing the Wolf Adjustable Trimmer

Testing the Wolf Adjustable Trimmer

In my 25 years of working as a goldsmith, I have always looked for tools that make my life easier...
Read More

Bench Tools Maintenance Schedule

Take a look around you. Chances are there is a flex-shaft or a dust collector you've neglected because you've been...
Read More
Reusing Broken Saw Blades

Reusing Broken Saw Blades

Traditionally trained jewelers often scoff at the idea of using glue as a joining method. However, there are times when...
Read More
Industrial Tube Wringer Tool Modification

Industrial Tube Wringer Tool Modification

Following the 2002 SNAG conference Barbara Minor forwarded this tool modification made by Chris Hentz of Chris's Cables – which...
Read More

Creating a Rotary Burnisher

Jewelers have been going green for many years by recycling old or worn-out tools into something new and useful. Setting...
Read More
Overcoming Tool Limitations

Overcoming Tool Limitations

True tales of how jewelers overcame out-of-the-box limitations - Most people who work with their hands become tool mad, and...
Read More
Ronda Coryell’s Foredom Micromotor K.1050

Ronda Coryell’s Foredom Micromotor K.1050

If you’re a bench jeweler who loves her flex-shaft, you may consider adding a micromotor to your toolbox. That’s what...
Read More
Tool Alterations

Tool Alterations

This article describes the different tool alterations that any bench man needs to know and learn as guidance for their...
Read More
Thai Chaser Tool Tricks

Thai Chaser Tool Tricks

I was recently in Chiang Mai, a city in northern Thailand, where I spent a month visiting silversmiths and chasers...
Read More
Making a Multi-Grit Sanding Stick

Making a Multi-Grit Sanding Stick

BW Simon in Spartanburg, South Carolina, made this handy tool for finishing jewelry. I would like to thank him for...
Read More
Welding Technology Tool Modifications Part 2

Welding Technology Tool Modifications Part 2

Custom jewelry projects for tack-, fusion-, and pulse-arc-welding sometimes call for special welding tool lead attachments. Bench jewelers often make...
Read More
Conversion of Dental Tools Into Wax Engraving Tools

Conversion of Dental Tools Into Wax Engraving Tools

This paper describes the conversion of dental tools into wax engraving tools, how they are held and how they are...
Read More
Tube Setting Faceted Stones

Tube Setting Faceted Stones

When beginning to do tube settings, the first thing anyone should do is buy a "Setters Tube Holder" which appears...
Read More
How to Modify a Goldsmith Hammer

How to Modify a Goldsmith Hammer

Jewelers and metalsmiths have had to make their own tools throughout the ages to accomplish different tasks at the jeweler's...
Read More
Customized Robo Grip Pliers

Customized Robo Grip Pliers

Steve Satow shares his procedure for customized robo grip pliers to add parallel action and more leverage to standard bow...
Read More
The TAO of Bur Goodtip

The TAO of Bur Goodtip

Bur Goodtip, a legendary bench jeweler shows how sometimes a tool is not just a tool... We are taking a...
Read More
Setting a Three Stone Ring with Foredom Tools

Setting a Three Stone Ring with Foredom Tools

This three stone ring designed by Barney Jette has two flush set trillion sapphire side stones with a total weight...
Read More
Half-Ground Round Bur

Half-Ground Round Bur

There are times during the setters workday where there is a need for a specific tool, but there nothing is...
Read More
Portable Polishing

Portable Polishing

Making your own custom finishing sticks Due to space restrictions, I don’t own a full-size polishing machine. Because I work...
Read More
Creating Accessory to Secure Tiny Settings

Creating Accessory to Secure Tiny Settings

Sometimes, holding on to really little parts is the greatest challenge of my day. I use tiny cabochons almost daily...
Read More
Tooling Around

Tooling Around

A look at a few jewelers who refuse to use tools the way they were designed Jewelers love their tools…but...
Read More
Customized Head Polishing Pliers

Customized Head Polishing Pliers

This article describes a step by step procedure of a pair of simple pliers to become a pair of customized...
Read More
Customized Steamer Bucket Enclosure

Customized Steamer Bucket Enclosure

The purpose of this steamer bucket enclosure is to prevent stones from being blown out by the steamer and flying...
Read More
Heimerle + Meule: Innovation as a Factor for Success

Heimerle + Meule: Innovation as a Factor for Success

The market always has new ideas and strategies for its customers that companies geared towards technology need because they mean...
Read More
Foredom TX Flexshaft

Foredom TX Flexshaft

When manufacturing and repairing jewelry products, rotary equipment is essential to the process. Nothing is more frustrating or potentially damaging...
Read More
Customized Ultrasonic Sediment Bucket

Customized Ultrasonic Sediment Bucket

This article by Steve Satow shares a step by step procedure on how t o make a customized ultrasonic sediment...
Read More
Customized Mini Clamp Tool

Customized Mini Clamp Tool

I like to hold small pieces of metal with a clamp that allows me to file hands free. I feel...
Read More
Customized Earring Setting Pliers

Customized Earring Setting Pliers

Steve Satow shows the procedure for a customized earring setting pliers using a normal setting pliers. Normal setting pliers can...
Read More
Techniques for Popular Finishing Touches

Techniques for Popular Finishing Touches

Precious metals are beautiful on their own, from the rich glow of yellow gold to the dense white of platinum—and...
Read More
Digital Imaging

Digital Imaging

This segment from the 2017 MJSA Journal November issue is dedicated to metals, tools, software and more that aids jewelers...
Read More
Rebuilding Bezels with a Laser Welder

Rebuilding Bezels with a Laser Welder

Steve Satow I have found this to be
 a most useful tool to use 
when rebuilding a bezel 
using a...
Read More

How to Modify Prong Pushers

Many stone setters would agree that one of the most challenging aspects of prong setting is getting the prongs down...
Read More
Modifying Beading Tools

Modifying Beading Tools

Modifying beading tools for clean re-tipping jobs A colleague recently asked for my help in finding cup burs that were...
Read More

The PUK Fine Welding Devices

For two years now, the manufacturer Lampert has been cooperating with the Laboratory for Welding Technology and Thermal Treatment at...
Read More
Accessories for Small Part Pickling

Accessories for Small Part Pickling

Ever spent way too much time trying to retrieve tiny jump rings, links, or other small parts out of a...
Read More
Metal Analysis Tool

Metal Analysis Tool

This segment from the 2017 MJSA Journal November issue is dedicated to metals, tools, software and more that aids jewelers...
Read More
Mini Casting System for Smaller Studios

Mini Casting System for Smaller Studios

The mini casting system MC 15 was specially developed for use in dental casting, goldsmith work and jewelry design and...
Read More
Rota Bench Plus: Revolution in the Work Zone

Rota Bench Plus: Revolution in the Work Zone

TIM Systems Ltd. Developed the time saving work bench “Rota Bench Plus”. An extensive range of accessories enables the bench...
Read More
Restoring a Jewellers Vulcanising Press

Restoring a Jewellers Vulcanising Press

This vulcaniser came to me in a poor condition. It would not heat up and had seized because of corrosion....
Read More
Modified Split Mandrel to Bezel-Set Round Stones

Modified Split Mandrel to Bezel-Set Round Stones

This jewelry bench tip is a follow-up to "Modified Split Mandrel for Finishing Round Bezels," which showed you how to...
Read More

How to Handle the Flexshaft

In the course of my 30 years in the jewelry industry, I can recall many instances of damaged equipment and...
Read More
Faster, More Efficient Laser Welders

Faster, More Efficient Laser Welders

Since their introduction to the jewelry industry, laser welders have been lauded for their speed, accuracy, and convenience of use....
Read More
Pulse Shaping: Variable Constants

Pulse Shaping: Variable Constants

In my last article about welding nickel white gold, (Ni WG),I said I would weld the same Ni WG shank...
Read More
How to Modify Separating Tweezers

How to Modify Separating Tweezers

Steve Satow shows how to modify Standard insulated tweezers to become effective ring separating tweezers.
Read More

Reconditioning Beading Tools & Dot Punches

Beading tools and dot punches lose their form and become dull as you use them. You can recondition a tool...
Read More
Customized Beading Tool Retipper, Trays & Polisher

Customized Beading Tool Retipper, Trays & Polisher

Steve Satow shares his procedure on how to customize bench tools like a beading tool retipper, small parts trays and ...
Read More
How to Make Straight Wire Holders

How to Make Straight Wire Holders

Stuller had the foresight to offer straight wire that we don't have to remove the bend from before we use...
Read More
Customized Solder Holder, Jet Sett, Blast Shield

Customized Solder Holder, Jet Sett, Blast Shield

Steve Satow shares his procedure for customized solder holder and blast shield, and how to make using a Jet Sett...
Read More
Time Saving Surface Processing: A User’s Report Part 1

Time Saving Surface Processing: A User’s Report Part 1

The film Otec offers surface processing equipment for jewelry firms. The size of the equipment can be selected to suit...
Read More
Customized Stone Laser Shield for Jewelry Making

Customized Stone Laser Shield for Jewelry Making

I have found this to be a most useful tool to use when rebuilding a bezel using a Laser Welder....
Read More
3 Jewelers, 4 Tools Testing

3 Jewelers, 4 Tools Testing

Editor's Note: Want to know how to make a bench jeweler's day? Send him a box full of new tools...
Read More
Blown Away

Blown Away

Creating a homemade blowgun As a jeweler and diamond setter, I get asked all types of questions. Recently, a customer...
Read More
Australian Ingenuity

Australian Ingenuity

Tool modifications from the land down under I just returned from Australia, where I shared foldforming and keum-boo lessons at...
Read More
Customized Turntable Tool Rack

Customized Turntable Tool Rack

Find a turntable that
 is size appropriate for 
your bench. In this case
mine is 18 inches wide.
 If possible...
Read More
Pollution Control / Metal Recovery

Pollution Control / Metal Recovery

This segment from the 2017 MJSA Journal November issue is dedicated to metals, tools, software and more that aids jewelers...
Read More
Customized Light Box & Bench Shelf

Customized Light Box & Bench Shelf

Steve Satow shares his procedure for customized light box for your jewelry photography projects and customized bench shelf for more...
Read More

How to Modify Wooden Ring Clamps

One persistent daily challenge a bench jeweler faces is trying to figure out the best way to hold onto tiny,...
Read More

Tool and Equipment Checkpoints

Maybe you’re shopping for the latest technologies—the newest developments in CAD/CAM to produce life-like renderings, a laser to engrave your...
Read More
Buffer System & Ultrasonic Basket Replacement

Buffer System & Ultrasonic Basket Replacement

Buffer System & Ultrasonic Basket Replacement When we replaced our vacuum tubes for the buffer system I chose to run...
Read More
Customized Hanging Tool Shelf

Customized Hanging Tool Shelf

I made a hanging tool shelf between my setting and soldering bench. With it off the floor it allows easy...
Read More
Foredom Redesigned Series SR Flexible Shaft

Foredom Redesigned Series SR Flexible Shaft

Foredom has redesigned the popular Series SR Flexible Shaft motor. It has more power/torque and is rated at 1/6 HP...
Read More
The Ideal Solution

The Ideal Solution

“The third generation of the tried and trusted PUK welders, the PUK 3, has been a great success worldwide,” says...
Read More
Customized 3 Jaw Chuck & Earring Holder

Customized 3 Jaw Chuck & Earring Holder

Steve Satow shares his procedure for customized 3 Jaw Chuck to mount on a Benchmate for hands free trimming &...
Read More
Roland DG: The Perfect Wax Model

Roland DG: The Perfect Wax Model

Roland DG Corporation is making high-tech available to jewellery designers and goldsmiths with its JWX-30. They too now have access...
Read More
Green Bench Tips – Part 1

Green Bench Tips – Part 1

This is the first in a two-part series on green bench tips shared by jewelers who are taking an eco-friendlier...
Read More
Channel Setting Bezels with Customized Pulling Pliers

Channel Setting Bezels with Customized Pulling Pliers

These pliers are used to pull back bezels on channel set rings. This allows you to drop in the stones...
Read More

Creating a Whip Burnisher

A worn-out bristle brush can easily be recycled into a useful tool called a whip burnisher or rotary hammer to...
Read More
Customized Peg Head Holder & Stone Holder

Customized Peg Head Holder & Stone Holder

Steve Satow shares his procedure on customized bench tools such as 3 prong or peg head holder & wax stone...
Read More
Sartorius AG: No Limits on Perfection

Sartorius AG: No Limits on Perfection

New gold and carat scales for stationary and mobile use – working with precious metals and high-carat gemstones calls for...
Read More
Green Bench Tips – Part 2

Green Bench Tips – Part 2

This is the second in a two-part series on green bench tips shared by jewelers who are taking another approach...
Read More
Customized Loose Head Holder

Customized Loose Head Holder

With these pliers you can pre polish platinum and gold peg heads of any shape. Remove any nicks one prong...
Read More
Ace In the Hole

Ace In the Hole

Punching your way to consistent granules I love tools, especially with finding new uses for them. Yet, despite my obsession...
Read More
OTEC: Rational Problem Solutions

OTEC: Rational Problem Solutions

The company OTEC develops and produces machines for mechanical surface processing. Founded in 1996, the young company received a commendation...
Read More
Edenta: Swiss Quality in the Tool Sector

Edenta: Swiss Quality in the Tool Sector

Edenta, the specialist company guarantees absolute quality consistency. Its range of top grade abrasive and polishing rotary instruments and polishing...
Read More
New Investments in the Workshop

New Investments in the Workshop

Precision, quality and economics are the principal factors when goldsmiths make new investments in their workshops. Within this context, it...
Read More
Modified Setting Bur with Safe Edge Tool

Modified Setting Bur with Safe Edge Tool

Here iss a nice little tool that makes use of an old setting bur. If you take the bottom teeth...
Read More
Jeweler Experiences in Tool Design

Jeweler Experiences in Tool Design

As you may have guessed, I highly recommend taking out frustrations at the bench on your tools. If you are...
Read More

The Digital Tool Debate Continues

In approaching this article, I found there are many avenues to pursue in the exciting and controversial subject of digital...
Read More
How to Customize Curved Tip Melee Tweezers

How to Customize Curved Tip Melee Tweezers

These tweezers are great for gripping melee when straight tips don't give you enough clearance. They allow you to slide...
Read More
How to use rolling mills No.3

How to use rolling mills No.3

How to use rolling mills
Read More
How to Customize Fine Tip Melee Tweezers

How to Customize Fine Tip Melee Tweezers

These tweezers are great for gripping melee when you slide then into position in continuous channel setting jobs. Here you...
Read More

The All-In-One Jewelry Making Solution At Your Fingertips

When you join the Ganoksin community, you get the tools you need to take your work to the next level.

Become a Member

Trusted Jewelry Making Information & Techniques

Sign up to receive the latest articles, techniques, and inspirations with our free newsletter.