How to Harden, or Soften Steel Burnishers => 12 photos

 In these photos here are the burnishers that need desperately to be repaired before being used again.

 These tools are the basis of diamond setting. The first thing we must do is to carefully soften the steel, just to start this delicate process.

Here are these badly worn burnishers that need to be repaired.

 Not every setter has a bench-torch at their disposal, it is best for me to have immediate access a torch of this style. (It allows the steel  burnisher to get hot as required).

 The flame should be aimed exactly at the tip of the tool. Please  let it just 'AIR-COOL', not 'WATER COOLING' IT. The burnisher is now so soft,  you can now file it to your specifications.

(Water-cooling again hardens the steel).

This is the 'tip flame' position that I'm refering to.

To 'cool' the tip of the heated area, of course, don't use your fingers.

 I'd keep the 'bench-torch' stationary and work the burnisher around the flame.

 To HARDEN THE STEEL. Once that the steel is RED hot, drop it quickly into a beaker of water. Immediately the steel will harden.

Always have your beaker of water within hands-reach.

 I keep the 'cooling burnisher' leaning against my bench tray, this will aid in the 'slow, air-cooling' process.

  At the tip of the BLUE FLAME is where you should aim the heat.

 In this position, you now have both hands free to hold the burnisher and pliers.