DIFFICULT => Intricate engraving blades. => 12 photos

 When I first started using my Onglette gravers. I practised on silver, but rarely on gold. This DIFFICULT training pattern was a 5-pointed star.

 In this essay, I will describe what it looks like after the diamond setting. None of my metal cutting was done using 'C.A.D.' as this program, 'Computer-Aided Designing' technique, wasn't even envisioned or dreamed of back in 1965. 

                            What tools do I use? 

 These specific tools, which have a common name of 'gravers', are honed to a delicate shape, as seen below.

 These are my preferred "Emery" (#240 & #400) and "Polishing Papers" #600 & #800 and #1,200 grit Polishing Papers.

 The "HSS" blade has a #40 width, as this is the only blade that I use in many instances. The other blades are the Onglette metal cutting gravers.

 In using a moderately shaped graver as shown in the lower photo, I have chosen my choice of tools.

  

1) These 'gravers' are a delicate blade and need to be polished continually. There are many methods, but in my many years of 'metal carving', I personally avoid any rotating disks with polishing compounds embedded in the steel disk.

2) I need a smooth surface, but never a completely flat surface. If I needed a flat surface, I'd choose a "Flat' graver, do you see my point?

 

  1) My graver that I need to use in this process is a "Right-Sided" Onglette, as I prefer a slight curve to the side of the blade. This particular 'curve' enhances the metal cutting pattern.

 2) The left side of this 'graver' has no purpose, as I'm 'right-handed'. If I were 'left-handed', the reverse can now be shaped on my bench grinder.

                 How are these tools maintained?

 I feel it is necessary to polish the side of these gravers on #800 grit paper, as this paper enhances the 'working side' of the blade.

 

  Once this #800 paper has done its preliminary 'polishing and cleaning' work, I'd immediately use #1,200 grit polishing paper. 

 This will give this Onglette Graver a fantastic result. This paper maintains a highly polished curve to the blade.

  As only one side of the blade is to be used, this blade must be 'highly polished' at all times. 

 The Red Handle distinguishes the Flat from the Onglette-shaped blade. This is for easier identification during the many steps in metal carving.

 I'll NEVER CHANGE THE COLOURED HANDLE TO ANYTHING ELSE FOR THE IMPORTANT METAL CUTTING. Because of this 'Handle Identification', there won't be a need for 'searching and guessing' which blade is meant for which purpose.

            Gravers are in various widths. 

 Here are two gravers: the blade of the left is the usual Onglette #2, but on the right side is a specifically bought 'Knife shape' #4/0.

 I'd be using this blade for intricate metal carving, as seen in the pattern shown in the first photo of the essay.

  The bottom of this graver is rounded for a purpose, and this purpose is to create beads that will eventually hold a gemstone. This will be great in Pave' Setting; these gravers were designed specifically for engraving.