Tools of the trade.....

I'm a little bit in love with my tools. I've spent many years learning how to use them properly and without them, I wouldn't be able to turn my designs in to reality. I've had some of them since I started my Jewellery and Silversmithing degree back in 1997 and they're still going strong so I thought I'd show you a few of the tools that I use the most each day in my workshop.......

My gas torch - for soldering and annealing.

Two of my files that I've had since 1997!

My hand drill and a selection of drills and burrs used for setting stones.

This is my favourite burnisher. It feels so nice to use. I use this for setting stones and to polish small areas that I can't get to with a normal polishing mop.

My ring clamp (holding the ring that I was working on this afternoon). 

Probably the first tool every jeweller buys - A piercing saw. The one on the left, and the one I use every day has also been a member of my tool family since 1997!

I'd love to see or hear about your favourite tools of whatever your trade is too, so please feel free to post them in the comments box below. :)