Graver
Also known as: Burin, Scorper, Engraving tool
A hardened steel tool with a cutting point used for removing metal in controlled strokes. Gravers are essential for engraving, bright-cutting, and stone setting work.
Gravers have been used since ancient times for engraving metal, stone, and other materials. The modern jeweler's graver evolved from traditional engraving burins used by printmakers and artists.
Tool Anatomy
Face
The cutting surface that removes metal
Heel
The bottom of the cutting face, controls cut depth
Belly
The underside of the graver
Tang
The shaft that fits into the handle
Handle
Usually mushroom-shaped for palm grip
Types of Gravers
Flat Graver
Square or rectangular face, used for flat-bottomed cuts and lettering
Round Graver
Curved cutting face for curved cuts and fine detail
Knife Graver
Angled cutting face like a knife blade
Onglette Graver
V-shaped with one curved side, very versatile
Square Graver
Square cross-section for bold, defined cuts
Common Uses
- Engraving decorative patterns and lettering on metal
- Bright-cut setting for stones
- Cutting seats for stones in pave work
- Creating texture and surface decoration
- Removing metal for flush settings
- Cutting channels and bezels
Related Techniques
Basic Graver Stroke
Learn to control the graver with smooth, controlled push cuts
Bright Cutting
Creating faceted, mirror-like cuts that catch light
Scroll Engraving
Traditional flowing scroll patterns
Care & Maintenance
- Keep gravers sharp - a dull graver is dangerous and ineffective
- Use a sharpening fixture for consistent angles
- Store in a protective case to prevent damage to cutting edges
- Wipe clean after use to prevent rust
- Re-sharpen frequently during use sessions
Safety Tips
- Always cut away from your body
- Use a leather thumb guard or tape
- Secure work properly in a vise or on a bench pin
- Keep fingers behind the cutting edge at all times
- Work in good lighting with magnification
Buying Guide
Start with a set of 4-6 pre-sharpened gravers
- •Choose high-speed steel (HSS) for easier sharpening
- •Get a basic sharpening fixture
- •Start with flat and round gravers
Individual quality gravers with custom handles
- •Consider carbide gravers for harder metals
- •Invest in a quality sharpening system
- •Try different handle styles
Custom-ground carbide gravers
- •Work with a graver specialist
- •Match graver geometry to your specific work
- •Consider pneumatic graver systems
Related Tools
Community Reviews
4.5
2 reviews
Sarah M.
Recommends
After 3 years of using this tool, it has become my go-to for all stone setting work. The quality is outstanding and worth every penny.
Pros
- Incredible precision
- Holds an edge well
Cons
- –Learning curve is steep
James T.
Recommends
Solid tool overall. Takes some practice to master but the results speak for themselves.
Pros
- Versatile
- Good variety of tips
Cons
- –Handle gets slippery
- –Pricier than alternatives