He has been carving stones for more than two decades and has also designed and fabricated jewelry.
Many metals serve the gem carver.
We'll start with a look at the potential uses and drawbacks of mild steel as a material for carving tools. Because it is easily shaped, wears quite well, and holds an abrasive well enough, mild steel is well suited for gem-carving tools. It is also readily available and inexpensive, making it still more attractive, especially for those starting out. I made my first tools from mild steel I bought at my local hardware store - in the form of nuts, bolts, and common nails. Start with the nails because you'll be able to make tools out of them quickly.