Raw Agate

[bushman]

Any pointers on working raw agate other then swing harder?
Bushman

[YosemiteBen]

heat it up.

[JackCrafty]

Sharp and well dressed tools.  I use steel and copper on agate....mainly steel.  The stuff will break your heart and cause endless self-doubt.  But a good agate point is something to be treasured.

[bushman]

Jackcrafty: Are you using steel on raw or cooked agate? Do you use different shaped tools or just a pointed nail? Thanks
Bushman

[JackCrafty]

I use mild steel on raw agate, like a 10d nail.  I also use steel ice picks for notching, on raw or cooked.  I try to keep everything sharp but not too sharp.

Cooked agate responds well to copper and antler but I don't cook mine.  The results are unpredictable and I've lost some nice rock.  I get my cooked agate from a friend.  He's a master at cooking Brazilian agate.

[bushman]

Thanks for the info jackcrafty.
Bushman